[inkblot]

Hi all. A website I frequent is just starting to use moderators for the 1st time in their forums and last week they asked me to be one of them. Of course, I said yes. I have no real job, so why not. Plus, I figure if I really need fill-in space for a future resume I can always add it as an outside "volunteer" activity, LOL.

Anyway, they assigned me to one of the hardest--if not THE hardest--forum: the Newbies!!! LOL! I obviously know the function of the job is to make sure all questions get answered (correctly), report spam, problems I can't answer, etc. I can't identify myself as a moderator either.

I made a filter to color-code all the emails to/from my contact at the site, and created a new folder to store some of them in to help me keep track of what still needs follow-up and such. But is there anything else you think I should know or do? I have moderated before but not like this--it's been quite a while since then for what I did do, and it was only limited. Also...perhaps I could get some hugs for the problems I've had to endure in this my first week on the job?! Thanks! LOL

[Christina86]

((((((((((((Inky))))))))))))))) Good for you! Volunteering is always fun on sites. Seems like you've got things handled from my P.O.V. Just remember to enlist help or pass off responsibility when you're swamped - and remember, most newbies will ask the exact same questions over and over again - so keep a record of questions (and answers you give) - sorta like FAQs, so you don't have to constantly think about answers to the same questions over and over again.

Most newbies feel a bit out of their element as well too ... so try to be welcoming, and give them "hugs" and stuff.

You'll be great

[(JD)]

I'll PM you with some ideas I have, from when I was Community Greeter here

[inkblot]

Good advice! I was thinking about making cheat sheets. I think its a good idea to welcome everyone. I started inviting some of the newbies to be my "buddy", and posting a welcome message on their walls. I should probably do that with everyone. Thanks!

[inkblot]

Thank you Sky!!!

Inky thats wonderful!! I bet it will be fufilling for you! (((hugs)))

My advice when it comes to newbies - be welcoming, curteous and kind to them. Its just like they are the new kid at school - they don't know many people and are likely to be a little "out of their element" as someone else said so they will appreciate the welcoming voice.

On the cheat sheets - do you have the ability to make "sticky" posts? You could post some of the most frequently asked questions, and then refer them to it if you needed to.

Thats my advice and my .02

[hurtingintn]

(((inky))) you will do great keep your head held high and just remember none of us are perfect

[splitimage]

(((inkblot))) I think that's great,, volunteering on a web site can be really fun, even though it's sometimes a lot of work.

On another board, that I admin on, we have a thread that's basically templates of replies to common questions / issues that come up. That way when something comes up we just have to copy the reply and modify it slightly to fit the situation.

Good luck and have fun.

--splitimage

[nightbird]

(((Inkblot)))

I hope you have fun with your new assignment!

you will be great.

I bet the newbies will like meeting you and with the ideas you'll come up with, it will be a good experience for everyone involved!

Nice to see you again.

Take good care of yourself, Dear Person!

Peace and Love and Comfort,
Night

xoxoxoxo

Originally Posted by splitimage

(((inkblot))) I think that's great,, volunteering on a web site can be really fun, even though it's sometimes a lot of work.

On another board, that I admin on, we have a thread that's basically templates of replies to common questions / issues that come up. That way when something comes up we just have to copy the reply and modify it slightly to fit the situation.

Good luck and have fun.

--splitimage

[lifeblows]

Sounds like more than you anticipated but I know you'll be able to keep up with it just fine. Here are for your first week and the many more to come!

[eskielover]

(((((((((((Inky))))))))))))),

How wonderful of you to volunteer for a position like this. You sound so organized with how you are handling it already. I am impressed. With your kind heart, you have a wonderful place welcoming everyone there. I am sure they will all be buddy's with you.

Here's a few to start with & one huge for what is to come. You will do a wonderful job as you are such a caring person.

Debbie