Editing How to write a hosting request (section)

== Say my name ... ==

* Start with a good impression and say the person's name. Don't start with, "hey man/hi there/hello you/hi" unless you already know them. Sometimes people have a username on CS that is not their real name, but their real name can often be found in their CS references - why not use that and show that you've read that section of their profile, at least. People of Asian background might be uncomfortable with addressing someone by their name the first time they write to you, since, in many cultures, addressing a person by first name is considered rude and too forward. You can work around this by specifically referring to something from their profile to communicate that you read it. A "Hello Mr. or Ms. ''Surname''" will most likely not offend anyone.

* Introduce yourself. Don't tell your whole life story, but try a little harder than just saying, "Hi! I want to surf your couch." '''Don't copy/paste your request emails to try to get a couch.''' Hosts have already caught on to this, and your chances of being successful are much greater if you make it clear to the host that you've ''actually read their profile'' and want to stay with ''them'', not just stay on ''their couch''.