Universal Moderator Handbook

[SoftWareRevue]

That's right. The universe is in need of a moderator's handbook.

Moderating the universe is hard work! :eyep:

OK. OK. This isn't about moderating the universe. It's about, putting together a guide that would be applicable to all moderators.

OK. OK. This isn't about putting together a guide that would be applicable to all moderators. It's about putting together a guide that would be applicable to most moderators of most communities.

What are some guidelines you can suggest that every moderator should know?

[Scott]

Info on how the tools work (my ipb example (http://www.forumuniversity.com/campus/showpost.php?p=7682&postcount=1)) is important.

Knowing the forum rules is also vital. Something that would explain what's expected of staff perhaps?

The problem is, these are forum specific. :think:

[fumbalah]

I figured I would give some input to this, as I am starting a Moderator Education/Training Website

Your Moderators need to be knowledgable about the subject, and also about the software they are using. If they don't know about the subject, then they really can't help you out. If they don't know how to work the software, then they are not able to perform their duties.

Another thing that is important is the fact they should be cool headed. They need to be able to handle stressful situations, especially without supervision. They should know any emergency procedures that you have put into place, and figure out how to handle situations correctly.

[Chris]

They should try to prepare themselves with the following knowledge:

The world isn't black or white. No situation will be easy to discern, and every situation is different. Also, don't try to do too much at the beginning - you may be eager, but you'll probably make a ton of mistakes at first. It's more noble if you take it slow and don't do much rather than moderate incorrectly.