GUIDELINES FOR GBTALK DISCUSSION GROUP

GBTalk is a forum for individuals from our technology, biotech and manufacturing companies to exchange information.  It is a way to get advice from your peers in the community and to give advice in return.  Topics and questions focus exclusively on issues and concerns that relate directly to the creation, growth and development of your business.  It’s your ticket to a wealth of experience from individuals like you. Some with more experience, some with less – and everyone’s in the same boat; all growing, technology-related businesses in Greater Baltimore.

GBTalk is a closed, moderated discussion group for GBTC Tech Members only. Participation in this group is designed to be practical, educational and fun.  All messages that you submit will go to the group with no prior screening.  Also, please be careful not to post any confidential information, and do not interpret any list messages as legal advice. 

From time-to-time, we’ll invite experts from the service provider or education community to comment on specific discussions.  However, they will not be permanent participants in the group.

All good, online communities have a few rules, and we’re no exception.  Following are the Group Guidelines that will help keep us on target and cut down on the noise level often experienced in discussion group formats.  Following the guidelines are simple instructions on how to post and reply to messages, as well as how to subscribe and unsubscribe from the list.

Participation - Posting messages and more:

To send a message to the group, address your email to aleciaf@gbtechcouncil.org with “GBTalk – [topic name]” in the subject line.  Your message will then be pushed to the queue and sent out to our members through our email program. 

Clearly identify the topic of your message in the subject line.

To reply to a message, simply click on the contact information that is listed in the message.  Do not reply back to the sender.

Do not send attachments with your messages.  If you’re referring to a particular document, just ask group members who are interested, to email you directly for a copy.

To unsubscribe from the list, please send a message to unsubscribe@gbtechcouncil.org with your name, company and the words:  “Remove GBTalk.”

Please feel free to encourage others within your company to participate in the list. To subscribe, please send a message to Alecia Farley at aleciaf@gbtechcouncil.org with name, company and the words: “Subscribe GBTalk.”  If you are requesting subscriptions for more than one person, please include each individual’s name and email address.

Examples of how to use GBTalk: 

• You have a need for some specific IT services.  You are looking for a recommendation for a company to assist you.  Post your request here.
• You’re negotiating with a prospective new CFO.  What’s fair when it comes to salary, options and the like?  Here’s your opportunity to survey other members about what they’re doing. 
• You’ve targeted a few Venture Capital firms for potential investment, but you’re wondering what experiences other companies have had with these folks.  Put a message into the group and find out who’s worked with them before. 

These are just examples, but you get the idea.

Examples of how not to use GBTalk: 

• This is not a job board.  Please do not send messages about jobs you are trying to fill to this group. 
• Don’t use the group as a podium.  Theoretical and philosophical discussions are great, but not here.  They add to the message flow and raise the noise level.
• Be respectful. Please refrain from offering personal opinions about competitors or fellow community members.  It’s a small town, and nothing’s sacred on email.
• No selling please.  Do not post unsolicited advertising, promotional materials or other forms of solicitation to this group.  Also please do not distribute copyrighted content without the permission of the owner.  And remember, no confidential information, as the group is unmoderated.

Anyone who is not comfortable with the above guidelines will be asked to unsubscribe.

Thank you for your cooperation and participation!