Moderator general Code of Conduct
You’re a volunteer moderator and we get it, you’re just chilling and helping your community. That doesn’t mean we can’t have a simple code of conduct to work with, right?
Please remember that each Community Leader has their own views on what code of conduct or ethics should be adhered to for their community. This is not meant to replace anything that your CL has instructed you on, the following only serves as a general-purpose code of conduct that you can reference for guidance if your community doesn’t have anything specific in place. This list is not exhaustive and cannot cover every situation but should serve as a general guide of how moderators should conduct themselves when exercising their authority.
- Impartiality and Fairness
Equal Treatment: Treat all members equally, regardless of personal biases or preferences;
Avoid favoritism;
Consistent Enforcement: Apply rules consistently to all members.
- Respect and Courtesy
Polite Interaction: Engage with members politely and respectfully, even in the face of disagreements;
Conflict Resolution: Handle conflicts calmly and seek amicable solutions.
- Transparency and Accountability
Clear Communication: Clearly communicate rules, decisions, and changes to the group;
Responsibility for Actions: Acknowledge and correct mistakes. Be open to feedback.
- Privacy and Confidentiality
Protect Information: Respect the privacy of members’ information. Do not disclose personal data without consent;
Confidential Discussions: Keep private discussions within the moderation team confidential.
- Inclusiveness and Diversity
Promote Inclusiveness: Foster an environment where all members, regardless of background, feel welcome and valued;
Challenge Discrimination: Actively challenge discriminatory behavior and content.
- Integrity and Honesty
Uphold Integrity: Avoid actions that could compromise the integrity of the group;
Honest Communication: Be truthful in communications with members and fellow moderators.
- Continuous Improvement
Seek Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from members to improve moderation practices;
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with best practices in moderation and community management.
- Conflict of Interest
Avoid Conflicts: Avoid situations where personal interests conflict with moderator duties;
Disclose Potential Conflicts: Be transparent about any potential conflicts of interest.
- Constructive Enforcement
Educate on Rules: Help members understand the rules rather than just enforcing them, when possible;
Proportional Responses: Ensure that the severity of any action taken matches the severity of the rule violation.
- Positive Community Building
Encourage Engagement: Promote constructive discussions and healthy interactions;
Supportive Environment: Create and maintain an environment that supports the well-being of all members.