Topic: Professionalism
We never know who may be visiting our forums and blogs. Our next reader might be an editor, a publisher, or simply someone with connections. I strongly advise that we mind our behavior online. This applies not only in what we put forth in our daily work, but also in our interactions with others.
As some of you know, our work is searchable on the internet. Maybe you've submitted a piece of work somewhere and the editor feels it may have potential but isn't quite what he needs now, it is entirely possible (though not likely) that he could search to see if we have anything else available.
This does not mean we cannot be friendly or make friends. This simply means to treat each new reader with courtesy and respect. It also means to watch the comments you make to others. The next potential editor might absolutely love your work but not the way you take suggestions.
An editor doesn't want someone who will be difficult to work with. He wants someone who will stand behind their work and defend it when needed, but also be willing to listed to good advice. Use good judgement in how you deal with your current readers. The next reader might be the important one.
Professionalism is the key. Simply because our audience is anonymous and we really don't know who we are dealing with, we need to always put our best foot forward. Doing so allows us to maintain a respectful distance when needed and judge our surroundings accordingly. Once we know who we are dealing with, the guard can be relaxed somewhat.
Let your work receive the attention. Save yourself for a live audience.