9.3 How to use Messages

There are several ways to communicate on VOHeroes.com.

One is in discussion groups, like Site Feedback, and our private ProConnect. Members of the discussion group will be able to see what you post, and will be able to reply to you.

Another way to communicate is privately with other members and with coaches, via our Messages system. It’s like direct messaging another user on any social media platform, but instead, on our website only..

If you have something of a private or sensitive nature, first Connect with the member or coach (use the Connect button in the upper right hand corner of the member or coach’s profile page):

Then once they accept your connection request, you can message them on the site (unless their settings are such that they allow anyone to message them whether they are connected or not). You’ll see a Connected button showing once your connection is made:

If you want to message someone, bring up their profile (either by clicking on their name or picture in a post, or by searching for them on the site), then click on the Message button:

Don’t message the coaches with questions that really should be posted for all to see in the ProConnect discussion group. We want everyone to be able to chime in with potential solutions to your challenges, and we also want everyone to benefit from the answers given.

Only use messaging for personal, private issues.

When someone is messaged, they get an email letting them know that, and they have a badge on their inbox with the number of unread messages. Below, Betty has one unread message (and one notification, which we cover in another topic):

The back and forth of messaging looks just like the back and forth you see on posts in the discussion groups. We expect you to be respectful of each other, and helpful wherever you can. You’ll get the same treatment from other Pros in return.