Bingo Chat Conduct

When you visit a regular bingo hall, you quickly learn to conduct yourself in a certain way so that you and other players have the best bingo experience possible.

For example, there is almost always silence among players when the numbers are being called so that everyone can hear them clearly. Similarly, we know that it's not good to be rude or to swear at other players in a vindictive way. Yes, we can all go and have a laugh, but we know where to draw the line thanks to common sense and the rules of the bingo hall we happen to visit.

Similar principles of good conduct apply when playing online. Although the "chat" facilities at online bingo sites don't actually result in anyone making an audible noise (it's just words on a screen, after all) it is important that we communicate in a way that doesn't hamper the enjoyment of other players.

Almost all online bingo chat rooms are monitored by a Chat Host or Chat Moderator (the titles are synonymous). These individuals keep an eye on the comments that are being made by players and will intervene should anyone choose to adopt a confrontational, vindictive or generally abusive tone. They have the authority to ban persistent offenders from the chat room, and in some extreme cases from the bingo site altogether.

In the vast majority of cases, CMs never need to exercise this authority, because most players are as friendly, polite and decent as they are down at the local bingo club. For this reason, they usually spend their time joining in the conversations with players, welcoming newcomers and sprinkling virtually lucky dust around the room.

To ensure you stay on the good side of the CMs, conduct yourself in a friendly and polite manner. Don't swear or insult other players, don't gloat when you win and don't moan at winners when you lose (though you're allowed to gently weep into your sleeves if you want to.)

By the same token, don't accept abuse or insults from another player. Instead, report the misconduct to the CM on duty, either by complaining in the chat room itself or by e-mailing them if you want more privacy.

Finally, if you want to get the most out of your chat whilst playing online bingo, be sure to check out our Chat Room Lingo page. Understanding how to use the "shorthand" of online bingo will make your conversations much easier on your keyboard, and you'll understand what everyone else is saying too!

30th January 2008