Have you tried Google?

I'm going to have a rant and it's probably not going in the direction you're expecting.

Disclaimer: Before I begin, remember that it's me...so none of this should be taken too seriously ; )

I'm a member of a number of Facebook sewing/quilting groups and find them really useful for both inspiration and support. One thing really bugs me though. The response:

"Have you tried Google?"

"Why no. No I haven't. In fact, I never even considered using the World's largest and most well-known search engine to perform a search. You're clearly some sort of genius that should be worshipped by us mere mortals with our crazy ideas and irritating questions. We should keep off your grass." (I told you it bugged me right?)

Now don't get me wrong. I understand how frustrating it is to have your valuable Facebook social media technical research time completely wasted by having to read a two line question in a forum that exists for people to ask questions in...and that you voluntarily signed up for. I get it. I really do.

Here's the thing though...

When I post a question in a group, it's because I'm after an answer from that group. For example, if I ask "does anyone have a pattern for a toddler skirt?". It's not because I'm too stupid to type 'Toddler skirt pattern' into Google. It's not because I'm too lazy to trawl through the hundreds and hundreds of results to find something I like. It's because I'm looking for a tried and tested pattern that other people have actually made and are happy to recommend. It's because I'm trying to support independent designers and know that the group will give me some great names beyond what I can find at Spotlight.

Maybe I'll ask "What online shop do you use for your business?". Yes, I can get a list of online shops from Google, but that's not what I asked. I asked what shop YOU were using. I'm after feedback on the pros and cons of the available options from the people actually using them.  Now, before anyone gets their panties in a bunch about "I worked hard to find that information out so I'm not sharing with you" or  "do your own research", I think you'll find this IS research.  Asking for other people's feedback and opinions is a valid method for finding information. You're more than welcome to not hand over the information, but a person shouldn't be ridiculed for asking.

It comes down to one thing. Be nice. If you can't give a genuinely useful answer, then simply don't give one at all. It's not helping anyone and you just look like a jerk.

And to the people that don't search on Google before posting a question..."Have you tried Google?".