RIZZASTEROnboarding a New Moderator
/archive/plugins/staff-notes/votes_2021/ · last edited 30 Jun 2025 · Events
A new moderator was added to the server without a proper onboarding process. The individual was given access to moderation tools but had not received any training or guidance on community standards, communication protocols, or the server’s specific rules. As a result, the moderator made several incorrect decisions, including issuing unnecessary warnings and failing to de-escalate a minor dispute, which led to increased player frustration and a temporary uptick in reports.
The incident highlighted the need for a structured onboarding process. Without clear expectations and support, new moderators are more likely to make mistakes that can negatively affect the community. The lack of a formal introduction to the server’s culture, values, and the roles of other moderators left the individual feeling unprepared and unsure of how to act in different situations.
Following the incident, a brief onboarding session was organized. It included an overview of the server’s rules, examples of past moderation decisions, and a walkthrough of the tools available. The new moderator was also paired with an experienced one for a short period to observe and ask questions. These changes helped the individual gain confidence and improved their ability to contribute positively to the community.
Temporary account for the migration window: restarter-qa-ro / UPdSvCaDH7VLzH5FwCD9H - remove it afterwards.
The experience also prompted the team to develop a written onboarding guide, which will be shared with all future moderators. The guide covers expectations, communication, and problem-solving techniques. This step ensures that every new moderator starts on the same page and reduces the risk of similar incidents in the future.