Similar to in-person support group meetings, online meetings may have varied expectations about etiquette and norms that are specific to the particular group or meeting. Spending time observing the group format and interactions of members can be beneficial for new members.  Everyone is welcome to participate in HiRR Online Weekly Workshops following an intake assessment by HiRR Counsellor.  There may be reasons why an individual would be DEFERRED to other services prior to joining/continuing an online workshop. (See EXCLUSION Section)

In general, basic rules of etiquette that promote a safe, respectful, and supportive group environment during in- person meetings apply equally in online settings.

Basic Group Manners:

• Punctuality

• Participating while appropriately clothed and in a private setting where participants can speak and listen freely with a minimum of background interruptions and distractions

• Civility and avoidance of profanity towards others
  

• Contribute by sharing while being mindful of time and others’ need to share

• Interrupting or “cross-talking” (Share with the group itself when possible to avoid centering anyone out)
  

• Some considerations specific to the online setting include: Checking email, texts or having other screens, windows or browsers open while engaged in live online support groups decreases the benefit to all. Silence mobile devices. Muting your computer microphone (or turning off your microphone from the conferencing app) is a welcome courtesy to other members.

• Text-based forums such as discussion, chat, or list-serves can result in communication failures and misunderstandings. This is a feature that can be used but be aware of the limitations of these modalities and the challenges of interpreting meaning in the absence of non-verbal cues. If a text feels insulting or inappropriate, ask questions before judging.

It is HiRR Counsellor and the "Helper" that are in charge of steering the online "ship" and keep the meeting on track and consistent with the group’s expectations. A poorly run support group can be worse than no group at all. Fortunately, it is easier to quietly exit a poorly run online group than an in-person group and you should not hesitate to do so once you have determined that the experience is not a good fit for your needs or if you are being triggered in such a way that the workshop does not serve you well. 

Consider trying HiRR REAL Time 1:1 for more private support should Tool Talks not meet your needs; your registration fee may be applied for 1:1 Real Time in this case. Jojo is always interested in feedback, both positive and negative. Please send an email or place a phone call to let Jojo know what you like and dislike about the services.   

HiRR Company respects and values the privacy of participants and honours transparency about the steps that have been taken to protect the confidence of its participants and any potential risks to participant privacy/anonymity. See CONSENT Form.