How to recruit and support volunteer moderators

Good moderators are rarely found through a job post. They're already in your community, helping others without being asked. Look for the members who answer newcomers' questions, calm a heated thread with one sensible comment, or quietly report spam before anyone else notices.

Recruiting

Invite them personally. A direct message that says what you've noticed and asks if they'd consider a role works far better than an open call. Explain honestly what the role involves, how much time it takes, and that saying no is completely fine.

Start new moderators on one small space, with an experienced moderator they can ask. It's much easier to learn the judgement calls in a quiet room than in the busiest thread of the week.

Supporting

• A private space to talk. Ours is Moderators HQ, where people can ask whether they made the right call without an audience.
• A clear handbook covering reports, warnings, removals and escalation.
• Regular, specific thanks: not just "thanks, mods", but naming what someone did and why it mattered.
• Permission to step back. Rotations and breaks prevent burnout.

Volunteers stay when they feel trusted and supported. Treat their time as the gift it is, and they'll look after your community better than any rulebook could.