I’m really excited to join the AuctionWatch team as a moderator of the message board. As they say – timing is everything! I realize I’ve come on board at a sensitive time; that there’s been a loss of confidence among some users.
Although I’m new, and don’t know you very well (I have been scanning some threads to become familiar with the community and its issues), one thing is sure: I will strive to be the best moderator I can be and to restore any confidence that’s been lost.
Beyond answering your questions and implementing the Community Guidelines, I want to understand your interests, concerns, and issues so that AuctionWatch can continue to be the best auction resource website.
I’m a packrat of a variety of things. I especially love antique oak furniture, pottery, old kitchen utensils, and turquoise and antique jewelry. I’m pretty new to the auction world, and though I’ve visited eBay and other auctions sites many times, I haven’t sold anything yet (Packrats never part with anything. :>
Moderation is a tricky thing. The Community Guidelines are clear, and they have to be enforced consistently and respectfully. But, they can’t cover every situation. That’s where good judgement comes in. I’m sure I’ll make mistakes – certainly at the beginning, and ask for your understanding. Being human, I can’t completely eliminate mistakes (although I’m confident there will be fewer and fewer mistakes over time.) The important point is that we all give and accept feedback in the spirit of the Community Guidelines. I commit to taking feedback seriously. If I believe I’ve made a mistake, I’ll correct it. But there may also be times when I will stand by my original position. That may be unpleasant; it may even be unpopular, but I see it as part of my responsibilities. Hopefully we will all learn something from these experiences.
I don’t want to be too wordy, but one last thing. My name is Glenda. I know, the irony is a little too much. To be up front with you, we talked about whether it’s in the best interests of the community if I use my real name. To avoid confusion, we’ve decided that I’ll use the name Gila, which I’ve gone by in the past. Until I get used to that (here’s one of those nasty little mistakes already :>], I might slip up and sign my posts as Glenda. Please point that out to me so I can correct it.
I’m really looking forward to spending time with you folks, learning a lot – and having a lot of fun.
posted on December 8, 1999 07:15:55 PM
well HELLO there I am glad to meet you GILA. My name is Brittney and I think I may be the youngest out here. I love smiley faces and use plenty of them. I hope you will do a good FAIR job. I hope BOB is still here because he was a decent man. He really did try hard and it was a hard job lately.
posted on December 8, 1999 07:18:26 PM
Welcome Gila , and I wish you good luck. I just hope that you are not intimidated easily......Jon
[ edited by jkorchids on Dec 8, 1999 07:20 PM ]
Yet, while you're correct, it's a sensitive time, it's also a malleable atmosphere. You have a real chance to make a difference. It will take the courage of your convictions, integrity, consistency, humor, and a good deal of the right stuff to meet the challenge.
I wish you well! More, I have high hopes that you'll succeed.
posted on December 8, 1999 07:29:07 PM
Hi Gila! I too, like Aurorah would like you to share more with us about your background in online communications. For instance, have you ever moderated a board, or actively participated in same? Thanks!
posted on December 8, 1999 07:29:53 PMGila SAID: "Moderation is a tricky thing"
Ever do any?
Gila SAID: "I’m new, and don’t know you very well"
Well, we have the ever present mix of shillers, criminals, saints, power sellers, net-savvy, non-net-savvy, not-at-all-savvy, multi-id using, self serving, anon posting folks as you would ever want to see on a chat board. Oh, and a couple real nice people. Those are the hard one's to spot, because certain of the bad ones act "all nice" to fool other members.
That just about covers this "community" Good luck, you'll need it. Be sure you are familiar with the entire "Brenda" threads.
posted on December 8, 1999 07:33:05 PM
Hello gila. I sure don't know why you would want this job but I'm happy that you now have it. Be sure to order your flame retardant suit and helmet right away.
posted on December 8, 1999 07:36:05 PMROSS: I claim territorial rights AND full copyright to your fantastic post up above. It would be GREAT in a book about online auctions -- remember that fad?
posted on December 8, 1999 07:53:22 PM
Welcome Gila. You've taken on a tough job. Sometimes rather a "motley crew" here but mostly big hearted and genuine! Was thinking about leaving but I guess I will stay now and see how things progress! Best of luck to you!
I am glad to meet you GILA. My name is Brittney and I think I may be the youngest out here.