The best ways to support people online

When it comes to offering support online, it can be much more difficult than in person. Not being able to see a person and have them hear the tone of your voice means you have to be careful about how you phrase things so they can easily understand the intentions behind your messages.

You don't want to upset anyone when you're trying to help and you also don't want to undermine what they are going through. If you want to be able to offer support online, whether via discussions or the chat room, we've got some great tips.

Don't offer unsolicited advice

If people don't ask for advice, it can be really frustrating to offer it out of hand. Yes, you may have experienced something similar or have an idea of what they should do in their situation, but if they didn't ask for advice, avoid giving it.

In those situations when you really want to give advice, it is best to check whether they are open to receiving it first. This will ensure you don't step on any toes or upset anyone. 

Sometimes saying anything can help

You may not always be able to relate or help someone with a problem they are having, but that doesn't mean you can't show them support. Sometimes, all they need to hear – or read – is that people are there for them so leaving a 'solidarity' message is all you need to do.

This will ensure people don't feel alone and help to create a strong and supportive online community. You'd be surprised how much a simple show of support can help.

Avoid turning the conversation back to you

When someone needs support, the conversation is about them and the worse thing you can do is make it all about you. Yes, you might have experienced the same thing and hearing that might help them, but making a discussion all about your experience doesn't really support them.

You can let them know you went through something similar and advise them briefly about what helped, but be sure to keep the focus on them. If you think that a more detailed explanation might help them, let them know that they are welcome to message you directly.

Don't undermine others' support

The more support the better, so make sure you don't undermine what anyone else says as this could make them feel bad, as well as the person they are talking to. There may well be times when people offer advice that you know isn't correct, but rather than coming out with 'you're wrong', you need to be a bit more tactful.

Offer your advice and explain why you're giving it, as this will inform the person you're talking to without causing an argument with anyone else.

Just be there

The best way to offer support to others online? Just simply be there. Engage in conversations, be positive and polite and be a shoulder to lean on. This is all many people need and it is an easy role to fulfil.