What do you look for in staff members?

[AjayJunkies]

When starting a community, one of the things we need to consider in some cases, even before opening the community is staff members. Do we need more staff members right away? How many staff members do we need? What should we look for when we hire staff members?

There are so many different things you need to consider when it comes to staff in your community.

When you are looking for staff to work on your forum, what do you look for? Are there any specific requirements you wish for staff members to have before they are hired?

 

[wedgar]

When starting a community, one of the things we need to consider in some cases, even before opening the community is staff members. Do we need more staff members right away? How many staff members do we need? What should we look for when we hire staff members?

There are so many different things you need to consider when it comes to staff in your community.

When you are looking for staff to work on your forum, what do you look for? Are there any specific requirements you wish for staff members to have before they are hired?

Expertise in one or more topics your forum covers.
People skills in being able to help members engage more.

 

[Mr Lucky]

When you are looking for staff to work on your forum, what do you look for? Are there any specific requirements you wish for staff members to have before they are hired?

Staff members who can tell when a post is written by an AI bot

 

[zappaDPJ]

I'd say from many year's experience, never ever advertise for staff. Potential staff members usually stand out by their activity on your forum so look for someone who is active and engages well with other members.

The number of staff needed is almost certainly a lot less than you think you need.

 

[James]

Also users who report posts that flout the rules. The ones that report posts not involving them as you know their intention is to uphold the peace and not self serving.

 

[Rhody]

I look for mature folks that have tact, and are not on a power trip. My theory is that less is more. Overmoderation is the #1 way to turn folks away from a forum, IMO. I prefer to seek them out from the membership, vs being approached by someone looking to punish others.

I explain that they are there to stop spammers mostly, and to stimulate discussion in a friendly way.

 

[cwe]

Can they navigate the forum software (won't be confused by moderation menus/options)?
Are they active (visiting the forum at least daily whether or not they post anything)?
Do they have a cool disposition (calm and rational - not prone to emotional reaction)?
ARE THEY WILLING TO DO A THANKLESS JOB FOR ZERO PAY (they must really like the community)?