Be careful when giving advice

I’ve seen it on blogs, in newsletters and on forums.  Well meaning people giving advice that is ok for some people but not for all.

Be careful that when giving advice to others that you’re not steering them in the wrong direction.  Particularly if that advice relates to your region and not others.

The web IS world wide – it’s not just in your state or your country, it goes beyond your shores. So, if you’re giving out advice relating to how something should or shouldn’t be done, clarify that this may relate to your area only and that readers may need to check what the rules are for where they are.   Many times I’ve had to step in and remind readers that the advice given by someone else doesn’t relate to people in my country of Australia and that if they’re not in the country of the writer, they may need to check what applies to them where they are.

Check your facts.