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Does it bother you?

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by alpha-male

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I'm fairly new here on Tech Republic, though I enjoy the site a lot. This question is directed towards the others who try to answer questions here and help people out...

Does it bother you when people reject your answers without any explanation? How about when you answer correctly? How about when you offer a *better* answer than the accepted one? How about when someone gives the same answer as you (after you) and theirs is accepted and yours rejected? How about when they don't even try the things you say? How about when they do, they tell the solution (which is what you recommended) and they reject the answer anyway?

I ask this because in the little time I've been here, I've faced all of these things and was wondering if this was typical. I'm not mad or "upset" about this...just curious. If it happened once or twice I wouldn't think anything about it...but it happens as often as not. In fact 3 times in the last 24 hours to me.

Do you think it's that your answers really didn't help...that the people just don't care or don't appreciate getting your advice...that it's a popularity contest...or what? I mean, I enjoy offering advice and helping solve problems. It's my job AND my hobby. The points here don't mean anything...but the satisfaction of getting a thank you does. There isn't much motivation to help without that...is there?

So...to the other troubleshooters and problem-solvers. How do you feel about this? Or...does it matter at all?

23 replies

by dmiles

Hi Alpha

This is a topic that can be discussed and it will probaly never get to whereas why you anyone does not post an explation or give you the benefit of the doubt,when you have the same answer as the amswer that was rejected,sometimes it is done on purpose and at other times I feel that it basically the individual discretion or lacj of that use the judges others who post on a consistent basis.

Since being in the forum I have the expierenced all of the above and have learned to not take it personal and to continue to help others.

I use the forum and answer to simulate the problems on my home lab,which is my motivation to gather solutions that may help in a situation that may come up in the real world.

So,consider that it will be a member that is willing to say thank you,or use the forum to interact.

by alpha-male

I agree that nothing will probably change this...but I certainly consider it unfortunate. Not for me...for all of us who willingly save others significant time and money with our efforts. I don't think I really take it personally...but being rejected constantly without explanation - or worse when you are right really discourages me when it comes to answering in future. I can get rejected without working for it in any local tavern...and have more fun doing it. ;)

by syscokid

Ah, the new user's lament!

It's been going on for the little over two years I've been here. It wasn't as rampant then, because there were only 500,000 users. Now, with users in the millions, there are more loser users.

Oh, and you left out the ones who never bother to even close their questions, accept or reject. I guess they just don't want to part with points, or something, which is silly because they are worthless.

One thing that's been pointed out is that the user interface involved in closing a question can be confusing- it's easy to reject an answer that you really want to accept. It's happened to me, and then people have emailed me an apology when the realize what happened.

There's really nothing you can do but roll with the punches, keep a list of loser users and never help them again, and take time to appreciate the people who accept your answer AND leave a nice word of thanks.

by alpha-male

I gather I'm not the first to whine about this. Ah well...that's the problem with the world today. It's all been done. ;)

I see the issue with never closing questions too - in fact about 60% of the 350+ questions I've answered are not rated.

I can see the interface is a touch confusing...but I think the problem is deeper. I think a lot of people just want a free lunch and aren't even willing to say thank you when they get one. That really takes the wind out of my sails when it comes to volunteering my time and effort, you know?

by dklippert

All of those things have happened to me as well. I do think the interface is part of the problem. A user can close a question without having to take a "positive" action such as award points or leave a comment.
Try getting points when the answer is "You can?t do that", or just "No".
I enjoy the research involved in answering a question, and each question adds to my own knowledge.
You know, if you've worked on a Help desk, that users will blame the technician personally for the problems with their machines and then when the trouble is resolved, feel that they sure showed you!
The majority or participants are decent, grateful fellow travelers.
I don?t think that there is a group of ne're-do-wells absconding with precious points, but thenagain?

by alpha-male

I have made a few "sorry...you can't do that" answers...and like you said been invariably rejected for them. Makes you wonder if they would rather you lie to them. Sure...go ahead. Try it *this* way (sinister evil snicker)...

I never have worked on a Help Desk per se (been a Network Administrator from the beginning), but I definitely know the things they face. When I can, I try to lend a hand to the help desk guys...and have seen all kind of finger pointing. I've actually consideredwriting a book about support experiences. I've got a few beauties I can relate...

by maxwell edison

At times it may start to bother me, especially when I’ve invested a little research time and uncovered the “correct” answer. But I quickly shed that feeling. It’s all you can do. I look at it like being diversified in the stock market. Some investments go down, while others go up. In the long run you’ll come out ahead.

And yes, it is true that by answering other’s questions we help them out. But I think I can say that it’s been rare that I didn’t also help myself in some way. An example of how I’ve helped myself can be illustrated with the many problems that can arise when Microsoft Exchange is part of the equation. I don’t use Exchange at my office, but many of our clients do.I’ve made a point of trying to solve many of these Exchange questions that are posted – even though I don’t have a clue as to the solution – but after some research I discover a clue and then, perhaps, the correct solution. Not only does that offer a sense of satisfaction, but it’s also paid dividends to me personally.

Expanding on my Exchange example, there have been times that people in my office have not been able to receive email from certain senders. Of course, they come to me to solve the (my) problem. But the problem may not be with my system, but rather with the senders. And now, even though I don’t use or have the software or any documentation, I’ve learned so much about it that I can call the IT person at a client’s office and help him/her solve a problem that resides at his/her end.

(continued..)

by maxwell edison

This is just one of many possible examples I could share. So what I focus on is how this has helped me as well – in the long run. In addition to what I’ve learned as a result of helping others, I can say that I’ve made a few “cyber friends” along the way.

I’ve noticed that you’ve posted a lot of great answers. And even though you may get rejected from time to time, don’t feel dejected. There’s always a positive aspect of any situation,and that’s what deserves your focus.

Maxwell

by maxwell edison

By the way, I consider the following person the very worst offender. (At least one of them.) From what I can tell, 100% rejection rate for dozens of questions.

https://www.techrepublic.com/forumqa/thread_detail.jhtml?thread_id=96460

If you’re interested, paste this >> jlstrader << into the search area, and look at the questions he rejected – most with very high points assigned.

There are a few people that I avoid. This is one of them. In time, you’ll learn them as well.

And another thought if you don't mind, I also once said that points were worthless, but I've had a change of heart in that regard. They are worthless in the sense of placing a financial (or material) value to them. But if you ever want to bring attention to one of your questions and/or issues, assign a point value that will put it on - and keep it on - the top of the list, and one will soon discover that they do indeed have some redeeming value.

Maxwell

by alpha-male

You are 100% correct in that doing a little research and providing an answer helps your knowledge as well as the person asking the question. I have learned a good bit from my efforts here and, in particular, the efforts of the very people who took time to answer this question. That is a real benefit to be certain, and a solid reason to just shake your head when you get rejected irregardless of the validity of your answer. I guess here, like in life, there are some people you just can'tplease. I do think it's pretty sad though that they can't take a moment to explain why they rejected your answer and say thanks for trying anyway. I do that to every response I make...and it's not like I have infinite time on my hands either. Thanksfor your answers though...here and elsewhere. I'm particularly grateful for the pat on the back...

by lizzy

Hi Alpha,
I have seen this too, and don't let it bother me, although when I first started using this site, I did wonder what was up with it. I think that mostly people don't care or don't know that they are being inconsiderate. The majority of one time questions that go unrated are probably because the user doesn't know how to get back to the question. If the user is trying not to lose or give away points, they should pay more attention because as soon as you submit the question the points are deducted from your total.

I have seen lots of your answers in the Q&A and I think you are doing really well with your answers. I subscribe to and read more than I try to answer because I love to read what people like you and all of the previous guys that answered this question will post. I learn lots from this site. Like one of the previous guys said, there's millions now, not just 500,000 and it's bound to get cumbersome...

Hang in there! Thanks for all of your great answers! Others (like me) really do appreciate it. :-)

by alpha-male

Thank you very much for the nice compliments, Lizzy...it means a lot to have some of the regulars here recognize me and notice my efforts. Perhaps even more than those asking the questions. I agree the points aspect is silly...and I don't care about that. Still, I do take some pride in answering the questions and dislike seeing a good answer rejected without explanation.

I'm with you 100% on the value of reading the answers here...some of the people are downright brilliant. I have definitely learned a good bit from your postings and from the other "regulars"...

by xpertdragon

Oh Yeah, this is an ongoing issue that is really never going to go anywhere. I have to admit I was a little sensitie baby in the beginning. What was the point of getting angry about someone who rececjted an answer that is obviously correct. How Do you know it is correct, or anyone know its correct for that matter? Well, most of us are regular ongoing I.T. professionals that participate fully in this site, and we know our answer is correct, because we have applied all the theories and "WhatIfs" in the REAL world....not to mention, if it is Microsoft related, it has been documented at least 10,000 other places.

It comes down to only a few simple factors. There are those of us who participate with this site Every single day. Also, as I look at all those users that have posted to this question before me, It is only obvious to see that they are the largest point holders, and answer givers in the history of this site. To these few, they are over all the political, and petty POINT scuffles by this point in time, and these issues rarely bother them anymore.

But, I honestly believe that I.T. pros are rarely appreciated for their skills, knowledge, and dedication.

The people that are question/forum/point abusers are most likely using their logon for quick answers...sometimes a panic situation if a PC problem needs ASAP attention. They probably skip from forum to forum looking for answers, and forget about a posted question, point value summary, or just plain don'tcare.

I feel my participation on this site, keeps me on my toes, keeps you sharp, and keeps you well informed. There are a lot of Tech forums out there in Tech Forum Web Land, but this is by far one of the best I have participated in.

Roll with the punches!
Your feelings of "What about a Thank You?" will pass
There will always be unappreciatives in the world.

Paul M. Chavez

by alpha-male

Exactly. There's not much to say other than we're 100% in accord on all the things you mention.

by brian

When I read your question - I feel like you have me pegged. I wish it didn't bug me to have an answer I know is coreect rejected, but it does. I do answer questions for fun and for a living and I think there are too many answers rejected.

I think the interface should be set to take the points away and never give them back even if the answers are rejected.

I believe some of the questioners make honest mistakes but I believe many don't want to give up the points.

There are also those that don't know how to execute the advice or they are afraid to try it so they reject you even when you give them a standard "no brainer" answer.

Every now and then I swear to stop giving the free advice (without so much as recognition from thequestioner), but I realize that I still get a lot out of it and that it is worth it to me even without the points.

I enjoy reading your answers as well as the answers of others who frequently answer questions.
To everyone, Thanks.
You probably don't read it enough...

by alpha-male

Thank you very much for your imput, your nice comment...and for commiserating with me. I agree there are times I don't take the rejection as well as others. Perhaps that's more a reflection of me than the actual rejection though. I too get a lot out of these questions...and that does matter. Still...just saying "thanks" even if it concludes with "but I don't have a clue what you're talking about". I'd really like to see elaboration on what happened when they followed your recommendation and why it didn't work...but I guess that's being far too optomistic. Thanks again!

by thechas

Hi Alpha-Male,

As to multiple similar answers, there is a delay on the site between when you post an answer, and when the other peers get to see the answers.

(I also notice a 2 - 8 hour delay from when I receive an e-mail about an answer beingrated, and the rating being posted.)
So, it is often the case, that we have not seen your answer, and you have not seen ours.

If a question has already been answered, I will only answer if I believe I have information of value to add.

As to the ratings from the askers, I have seen the ratings run the gammet from an even spread, to no points at all.
Then, there are the peers who never rate the answers at all!

ASyscoKid may be able to respond to this better, but it looks like another Q&A forum (www.experts-exchange.com) locks out a question after it has been answered until the answer is rated.
Seeing some of the poor answers (mine included) that get posted from time to time, I would not want to see that change here.

Remember, the points are only for fun anyhow. If there was a real value to them, there would be a lot of issues to be resolved.

Yes, it is dissapointing when you answer a question and get no response from the peer. I opt to focus on the peers that truely appreciate our answers, and forget about the ones that don't seem to care.
I have made a few on-line friends from answering the questions here, and that makes it all worth it.

Chas

by alpha-male

I've seen the delay factor too...answered a question and seen someone later drop in right before me or after me with an almost identical solution. I guess some people don't know this....or to accept just the first or all helpful answers. The points mean a lot less to me than the "accepted answers"...because I do think that is some measure of your contribution here. Unfortunately, due to the way some answers are rejected, it kind of messes up that rating. If I were guessing, I'd say 30%of answers are rejected irregardless of their merit. Sometimes when I've put some time and effort into an answer that rejection stings a bit.

One thing I definitely agree with is your comment on making friends is more valuable than any thank youor point total. I'm still new enough that I haven't gotten to know people here yet...but I enjoy associating with my peers and certainly am impressed with many of the regulars. Present company included...

by syscokid

Chas,

In response to your comment, that's not the way Experts Exchange works. E-E is a moderated site. Volunteers moderate each topic area, and if a question has been satisfactorily answered (in the consensus view of those who participated in the question, or sometimes solely in the modeerator's view) and the questioner fails to close out the question, then the moderator can force-accept an answer and award the points.

Also, there is no way possible for the questioner to close a question by rejecting everything.

by some guy in seattle

I don't usually get involved with the non-technical answers but yes, this used to bug the heck out of me. Most recently when I gave an answer to someone asking for command-line options in changing network settings in Windows (the "netsh" command onWindows 2000 if you're interested). 100% on-target answer, rejected without comment.

I used to keep a list of people that did that in order to not bother answering future questions, but quit after it got to about 60-70 people. Too much bother to maintain and reference.

As Max said, I usually get something out of having to research the answers sometimes, so there's no point getting worked up about it. If anyone gets angry by bad-faith behavior, don't bother posting to the board.

by alpha-male

I'm with you on that...there have been a couple of rejected answers that definitely got under my skin. One guy asked how to change the password on his router and I said he wasn't clear which one...so here's how to change them all. The answerwas directly quoted from Cisco (I'm working on a CCNA right now) and the answer was rejected. The next post said What the heck do you want? It was accepted. Hahahahahahaha. Another that tweaked me was when someone asked about a recommendation for anold Apple printer to set up on his TCP/IP network. He accepted "Buy an old Apple Laserwriter II on Ebay" answer. My suggestion was to take advantage of his network infrastructure, add a Jet Direct or printserver and set up a new printer on that. Bzzzzzzzzt! Rejected. I guess having a warranteed, currently supported dependable peice of hardware with readily available supplies and current drivers, etc was just of no help. Ah well...guess I'm not as bright as I thought I was. ;)

You're right though...the bottom line is really did I get something out of offering the answer. I guess some self-esteem in feeling I know how to help and when some research is required the gained knowledge is always an asset. It probably doesn't matter whether theperson asking the question appreciates your effort. In a strange, philosophical sort of way it should just matter that you have the capability and consideration to offer assistance. Whether accepted or rejected, you can take some pride in the fact you freely went out of your way to do something nice for someone. If they don't appreciate it, then the problem is with them...not you or your effort.

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