Why in the world is it so "taboo" and bad to ask the simple question, "How do I become a moderator?"
That is senseless! Whilst [,at the moment anyway,] I personally do not wish to become a moderator, I make this post on the behalf of any others.
There would be nothing wrong, from what I can see, of somewhere on the site an information set that gave the basics for how one becomes a moderator; granted, I do not mean a specific "if you do these, you will definately become a moderator! :)" type of thing. Just basics.
Now, before I end this, I will add that I most certainly will NOT argue on this topic, in this thread. That would be immature and childish.
Now, I guarantee that I will probably get some very stupid replies on here such as these three below examples:
1. "Don't ask, as you pointed out..."
Reason for stupidity: that was the entire question; this info. is not useful, therefore, bluntly, keep your mouth shut on it, all you are doing is wasting your time [and finger strength] .
2. "It's moderator business..."
Reason for stupidity: that is the point...why is this moderator business??? All moderators do is enforce the site's rules!!! The moderators are not some special, very advanced cult of practicioners, they are just normal people...why should this info. be some great secret? In the U.S. and other places, you see why leaders are leaders and what they did to become this...'tis no secret. It is no secret what you must do to become a policemen or other law enforcement official!! Granted, much work may be required, but you still are able to see what must be done!
3. "Just follow the rules and try to enforce them..."
Reason for stupidity: if that was the case, there would be 10 times the number of moderators than there are now, so this is obviously NOT the case.
Now, I hope this does not offend anyone; then again, I cannot be certain of that.
I am looking forward to some of the "brilliant" (and truly brilliant ;) ) responses that are posted! :)
Re: Taboo of Mod. Question By: AwakeTooLong / Knowledgeable
Post # 2 Jun 13, 2011
Most of the time if you're trying to become a mod you're not mod material. It's not taboo, it's just... a blatant tell that somebody is looking to acquire authority of some sort.
Further, there's no real structure to it I would imagine. If you are deemed suitable then you are voted in or made a mod by the admin or however it works. Somebody going "Ooh, ooh, pick me" or artificially performing in a manner suitable to the role because they had instructions would be self-defeating.
Re: Taboo of Mod. Question By: Brysing Moderator / Adept
Post # 3 Jun 14, 2011
Moderators are elected.And that's how it should be! I didn't ask to become an editor. I was elected. Obviously somebody, perhaps a few moderators, thought that I was suitable material. It was not for me to say!
Thank both of you for that clarification. The reason I say, "taboo" is because in the one of thesticky threads in this "Comments" forum, has that info. posted.
As far as what you were saying Awake, I understand your P.O.V. but I did think I clarified. I meant general "guidelines" as to how you become a mod. As you say, if there were to be specific instructions, then, yes people would...how do I say this...become "artificial" moderators due to a power trip. By general guidelines, I mean [outside of following basic rules] for instance: does one a) help enforce the rules by "yelling" at people (for instance) in Chatter when someone breaks the rules and there is no mod. around? or b) keep quite and leave that to the mods.?
That is just one example, but I think you should get my idea.
P.S.: I would indeed like to thank both AwakeTooLong and Brysing for NOT giving stupid answers. That was helpful...future posters (if any), I recommend giving answers that fit their format! :)
It's only a taboo question based upon which mod you ask and the sarcasm level of that particular mod at that particular moment. Most of the time when i'm on the chat, it's the members who answer the question with some snarky remark.
Basically, a person who's suitable to be a mod or an editor is someone who comes around regularly, is generally helpful, follows the rules, has some experience with spellwork and magic, and is low-drama. After a while, this behavior gets noticed by everyone - members, mods, and admin alike.
While i can't say it's always true, many times people who are very interested in obtaining positions of power are typically interested in the power, not in the increased opportunities to serve their community.
Re: Taboo of Mod. Question By: Brim / Knowledgeable
Post # 8 Jun 14, 2011
I second LdyGry's answer...we see moderator potential in someone who helps people here, who has an advanced knowledge in the occult arts (This is an occult site after all), knows the English vocabulary and grammar and respects the rules of the site and follows them. I try to answer all questions because i was once a beginner too (Shock) and understand how it's like...but as LdyGry said, it's usually other members with the "smart" answers...however, it does depend on the moderator you are asking. I myself try to keep in good relations with members
Thank all of you for your great responses. And Brim, I appreciate your focus on member relations! :)I think these posts should help clear up anyone's question on how to become a mod. And in this thread, thank heavens that there were no snyde comments.