In most cases, a group’s leader is also the mailing list moderator. But what exactly do they do? Like so many things…….it depends. The goal for online discussion groups is usually the same:
To nurture and encourage a group of people to share their knowledge,
wisdom, and experience with like-minded people for the common good.
The question then is, what does a mailing list moderator do to further that goal?
The first thing to consider is that mailing list groups use email. Email has many good qualities, and several severe constraints. Email can be read and written whenever the subscriber has time and wherever the subscriber is. (Including on smartphones!) That is a BIG advantage.
However, the written text without additional clues, such as body language or tone of voice, limits the usefulness to pretty much just factual information. It’s difficult to have a nuanced discourse within email. That means, sometimes a group needs leadership to interpret, guide, and keep it cohesive.
The means of achieving a cohesive online group can vary considerably. Some moderators keep a tight control on their group. Some practice a hands-off policy. Some are almost non-existent, and the group polices itself.
The Hands Off (or Non-existent) Moderator
Many mailing list groups run just fine for years with little or no leadership. This is the “less is more” approach.
Messages from the members go directly to the list, and individual members will speak up when somebody violates the group’s norms. For all practical purposes, the group leader is just another member.
The Controlling Moderator
This type of moderator may review and approve every message before it’s sent to the list. Possible reasons could include:
- To make sure each message is on topic and worthy of their member’s time. Or….
- To control the conversations by rejecting thoughts and opinions contrary to their own.
Moderating messages this closely has some disadvantages:
- It introduces a time lag.
Timing of messages depends on how quickly the moderator reviews and approves them. Sometimes, that time lag is not important. Other times, it is. - Some people may become reluctant to send messages.
This might be due to past emails being rejected or a perception that the list moderator doesn’t like them.
The Commentator Moderator
This group moderator provides commentary on some of the messages.
They might do this to provide background information to help people understand the situation. Or to provide a counterpoint for the members to consider.
All Moderators
Nearly all group leaders control the membership by reviewing new subscribers. And sometimes, they remove people that are unable to conduct themselves in a cooperative spirit. Many group leaders also work to expand their group with new and qualified people using their online and offline networking skills.
In my experience, I have always enjoyed a lightly-run group where messages are not moderated, and everybody is treated as equals. What sort of experiences have you had with your mailing list moderators?
Curious about a similar job, the community manager? Are you a moderator who’s more curious about how to setup and run your electronic mailing list? Contact us with questions!
