Using Someone Else’s Computer
It’s bound to happen: you’re with your girlfriend as she talks business with a friend—concerning a field that you know nothing about. I found myself with an opportunity to get some work done, as the friend let me use her computer. Which reminds me, there are some rules you need to follow when using someone else’s computer.
Ask for permission. Consideration minimizes irritation, which is why we should practice it whenever we’re using other people’s property.
Never use the owner’s accounts. The reasons behind these are obvious when using identity-based services like Gmail or Yahoo Messenger. Doing this also respects the owner’s privacy, and makes sure that his or her name isn’t used for any online activities you may engage in.
Never save your passwords. Unless you have no problem with the owner having complete access to your online properties.
Always sign out of any websites you use. For the same reason mentioned above.
Work as quickly as possible. Keep in mind that your use of someone else’s computer is a privilege, not a right. Getting things done promptly will lessen the burden that you’re obviously imposing on the owner.
Drop everything right away when the owner needs to use the computer. No doubt, the owner will be willing to wait for a bit while you save your work and sign out everything. The last thing you should do is keep someone from using their own computer.
Practice these simple rules whenever you use someone else’s computer, and chances are they’ll have problems helping you out again when you’re in need.
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POSTED IN: Living as a Freelancer
1 opinion for Using Someone Else’s Computer
Evan Meagher
Jan 11, 2008 at 12:41 pm
Good tips. Good to see a topic that hasn’t been drilled to death by every other blog out there.
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