Does anybody else feel like it’s a little harsh in here...?
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: SFO
Programs: UAMP Global Services, AA Platinum
Posts: 89
Does anybody else feel like it’s a little harsh in here...?
I’m not sure if it’s just me, but I can’t help but feel that the tone in many of the active threads has gotten pretty snarky in recent months.
I come to FlyerTalk to get latest info and details about fleet and lounge updates, schedule and service changes, etc.
And yes, sometimes to share a gripe or two.
But when I post to a thread (admittedly, not that often) I take time and care to phrase my requests clearly and put forward a balanced view of my in the air and on the ground experiences. I see many others on the site, particularly very active posters like EWR764 and WineCountryUA, going out of their way to post clear, comprehensive and balanced information.
What surprises me me are the few, but seemingly growing number, of posts and replies that contain something to the effect of “ ... yeah, but I knew that already ...” or “Here’s all the ways in which you are dead wrong!”
I’m all for good debate and lively exchange, but it seems like we we could all be a little more appreciative when someone takes time to post a really thoughtful, detailed contribution or comment. Be respectful others’ points of view.
And keep the shade at a friendly level.
I come to FlyerTalk to get latest info and details about fleet and lounge updates, schedule and service changes, etc.
And yes, sometimes to share a gripe or two.
But when I post to a thread (admittedly, not that often) I take time and care to phrase my requests clearly and put forward a balanced view of my in the air and on the ground experiences. I see many others on the site, particularly very active posters like EWR764 and WineCountryUA, going out of their way to post clear, comprehensive and balanced information.
What surprises me me are the few, but seemingly growing number, of posts and replies that contain something to the effect of “ ... yeah, but I knew that already ...” or “Here’s all the ways in which you are dead wrong!”
I’m all for good debate and lively exchange, but it seems like we we could all be a little more appreciative when someone takes time to post a really thoughtful, detailed contribution or comment. Be respectful others’ points of view.
And keep the shade at a friendly level.
#2
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: Northern California
Programs: I want to be free! Free!
Posts: 3,455
While FT has always been a place to bring complaints, I think folks are generally less happy with loyalty programs and unfortunately we are spending a lot of time digesting bad news or situations on the board, so there is generally a less positive/constructive tone... my $0.02
#4
Join Date: May 2010
Location: AVP & PEK
Programs: UA 1K 1.9MM
Posts: 6,357
#8
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2000
Location: Los Angeles
Programs: UA Plat 2MM. DL Plat, AS MVP
Posts: 12,752
In my early days of FT, the threads had a much different tone. People came here to share tricks of the trade - all within the terms and conditions of the mileage rules.
We sought ways to maximize miles.
We looked for ways to earn additional miles.
We shared methods to stretch the use of every upgrade coupon.
We opened doors to lesser known passenger rights.
Yes, we griped about things as well.
But the general tone was, "Let's see how we can work WITH United to make flying great." Often, now, it seem like, "United sucks. Let's screw them the way they screw us."
As I have maintained in FT... I've never faced the horror stories others have. And perhaps I have too much of the happiness gene. But I still find flying a pleasure, whether in coach or f, whether the meal is good or bad. I smile when I see the FA, I help when a passenger can't lift a bag, and I don't join the cacophony of voices that often complain when there is a delay.
It makes a difference when traveling.
It makes a difference on FT.
It makes a difference in life.
We sought ways to maximize miles.
We looked for ways to earn additional miles.
We shared methods to stretch the use of every upgrade coupon.
We opened doors to lesser known passenger rights.
Yes, we griped about things as well.
But the general tone was, "Let's see how we can work WITH United to make flying great." Often, now, it seem like, "United sucks. Let's screw them the way they screw us."
As I have maintained in FT... I've never faced the horror stories others have. And perhaps I have too much of the happiness gene. But I still find flying a pleasure, whether in coach or f, whether the meal is good or bad. I smile when I see the FA, I help when a passenger can't lift a bag, and I don't join the cacophony of voices that often complain when there is a delay.
It makes a difference when traveling.
It makes a difference on FT.
It makes a difference in life.
#9
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: HNL
Programs: UA GS4MM, MR LT Plat, Hilton Gold
Posts: 6,447
As I have maintained in FT... I've never faced the horror stories others have. And perhaps I have too much of the happiness gene. But I still find flying a pleasure, whether in coach or f, whether the meal is good or bad. I smile when I see the FA, I help when a passenger can't lift a bag, and I don't join the cacophony of voices that often complain when there is a delay.
It makes a difference when traveling.
It makes a difference on FT.
It makes a difference in life.
It makes a difference when traveling.
It makes a difference on FT.
It makes a difference in life.
#10
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: San Francisco Penninsula
Programs: Bear Backers
Posts: 932
The race to the bottom does not make many people happy.
Young people want price and do not care about comfort until they experience the new bad. No real solution as they are really giving most people what they want.For me, Premium Economy is a godsend that I can afford as a senior.
#12
Suspended
Join Date: Oct 2017
Location: Miami, Florida
Programs: AA ExPlat, Hyatt Globalist, IHG Spire, Hilton Gold
Posts: 4,009
#13
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Los Angeles, California
Programs: United, American, Delta, Hyatt, Hilton, Hertz, Marriott
Posts: 14,804
Interesting point. One of the challenges is that this form of communication isn’t nuanced, so sarcasm, dry humor is ripe for misinterpretation. I tend to assume someone isn’t being serious. If they were to say the same thing to me in person, where non-verbal cues dominate communication, I’d likely not give it a second thought.
Alternatively , in my case, since I seem to be on-line a lot, it could be the case that I’m a socially, maladjusted oaf. <appropriate emoji> I favor the first explanation.
Alternatively , in my case, since I seem to be on-line a lot, it could be the case that I’m a socially, maladjusted oaf. <appropriate emoji> I favor the first explanation.
#14
Join Date: May 2009
Location: ATL
Posts: 516
It's not just here, but this is the most recent place I've seen it. Slashdot has been ubearable with self obsessed narcissists for years, and it's definitely spreading across all types of forums.
I've simply reduced the amount of time I spend on forums, it keeps me less stressed. The overbearing posters yelling to hear their own correct opinions can run the place - I'll be engaging in the real world instead.
FWIW I blame social media for the lack of social skills on display.
I've simply reduced the amount of time I spend on forums, it keeps me less stressed. The overbearing posters yelling to hear their own correct opinions can run the place - I'll be engaging in the real world instead.
FWIW I blame social media for the lack of social skills on display.
#15
Join Date: Dec 2004
Programs: UA-1K, MM, Hilton-Diamond, Marriott-Titanium
Posts: 4,432
Yes but even the gripes are so brilliantly witty and that wonderful dry sense of humor makes the snark so utterly enjoyable for one to read. I now start my daily reading of FT at the BA forum whilst sipping a good cuppa English Breakfast Tea.