How to Private Message Someone on Quora: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding and effectively using Quora's private messaging feature can greatly enhance your interactions and engagement on the platform. However, not many users are aware of the proper steps to follow when they want to send a private message to another user. This guide will walk you through the process, highlight common issues, and provide tips for better communication.

Accessing the Private Message Feature

When attempting to send a private message on Quora, you might encounter a few challenges. If you don't see the 'Message' option when clicking the three dots ... next to the user's profile, you cannot directly message them. To ensure you are messaging the correct person, start by clicking on their name, either on a question, answer, comment, or post. This action will redirect you to their profile page. Typing their name in a search window can sometimes lead to sending a message to the wrong person. Therefore, always double-check before you hit 'send.'

Web Browser vs. App

The process can slightly vary depending on whether you are using the web browser or the app. In a web browser, look for the small box at the lower right corner that says 'Messages.' Enter the person's name or any identifier in this box, and start typing your message. Alternatively, you can hover over their name and look for the 'Message' option.

In the app (though I haven’t used it in months), there is also a menu option for 'Messages.' Or, you can navigate to the person's profile page and look for the 'Message' option there. Ensure you are using the correct identifier to avoid sending a message to the wrong person.

Understanding Limitations and Settings

It's important to note that the person you are trying to reach might have private messaging settings disabled. If this is the case, you won’t be able to send them a message directly. If you are unable to find the message option, they might have disabled it in their profile settings. Instead of panicking, leave a brief comment, urging them to DM you, and verify that your settings allow for direct messaging.

Example of a Proper Message

First, navigate to the corner of your browser where you see your profile and first name. Click your name to access a drop-down menu. Select 'Messages' from the menu. You will be directed to a new window, likely empty. There, you will see a large black rectangle, typically covering other private messages. Click 'Compose' (usually a blue button), and type your message. Use the 'Find People' feature if you need to locate the user you want to message. If you can't find the person, they may have their private messaging feature disabled. It’s best not to worry as they are still active on Quora.

Following Etiquette and Guidelines

It's crucial to follow proper etiquette when sending a private message. Using a name like 'Kevin' without context can be too generic and might lead to unwanted interactions. Before sending your message, consider the following tips:

tAvoid sending generalized greetings like 'Hi.' Most authors will block or ignore such messages. tAvoid offensive or rude content. Even sarcastic messages should be handled with care, as they might still be seen as offensive. tCheck the user's profile for any special requests or rules. For example, the user 'Alexander' has a handy image (though the text might be too small, making it hard to read) that guides new users on how to interact properly.

For instance, let’s take a look at User’s profile. Their guidelines clearly state how to interact effectively. If you have any doubts, always refer to the user's current policy. In this case, the image below shows an example of such guidelines.

Note: This image is just an example, and users can have different policies. Always check the current guidelines on their profile to ensure you are following the right etiquette.

By following these steps and tips, you can effectively use Quora's private messaging feature and enhance your interactions on the platform. Remember, the key is clarity and respect for the other user's preferences and settings.