Explanatory note: This can be moved to Wikipedia: namespace and be printed on a shirt using a simple screenshot from a browser which is using settings and skins that make it relatively unidentifiable (not clearly FF, IE, Opera, whatever) and then printed on the back of a shirt which features the standard Wikipedia logo on the front.
I swear that I've learned more about management and leadership here than I ever did in my management classes, and I technically have a business degree. The below might actually sell fairly well among real editors. The text therein is paraphrased to be generally applicable outside of the wiki from text found within Template:Nutshell transclusions on various policy pages.
Cut here, make my shirt!
Everything I need to know about life I learned from the Wikipedia
- If a topic has received significant coverage in reliable secondary sources that are independent of the subject, it is presumed to be notable by some and is worthy of a modicum of respect.[citation needed]
- Unless there is strong evidence to the contrary, assume that people are acting in good faith.
- If criticism is needed, discuss editors' actions, but avoid accusing others of harmful motives without particularly strong evidence.
- Effective writing is done from a neutral point of view, representing significant views fairly, proportionately, and without bias.
- Everywhere be bold, but not to bold: If you see something that can be improved, improve it!
- Consensus is a civil person's fundamental model for editorial decision-making.
- Strong writing depends upon your ability to write from a neutral point of view, representing other significant views fairly, proportionately, and without bias.[neutrality disputed]
- If a topic has received significant coverage in reliable secondary sources that are independent of the subject it warrants some attention, by someone, presumably.
- Guidelines and policies tend to document societal consensus rather than create it.
- Do not promote your own interests through those for whom you are responsible unless you can do so while holding their interests above your own.
- Do not ignore the proposals, positions, and conclusions of others.
- Welcome new colleagues and offer them all the help you can to be productive members of your community.
- Adults are expected to resolve disputes calmly, through civil discussion and consensus-building in relevant fora, with the aid of disinterested mediators if need be.
- Try to discourage others from being uncivil, and avoid upsetting other editors whenever possible.
- If a rule prevents you from improving or maintaining what's important, ignore it.
- Repetitively and intentionally breaking important rules may result in a temporary or permanent removal from society at large.