February 25, 2007

What are the Best Practices for new channels/chats?

The primary goal in creating any chat channel should be to increase your knowledge and the knowledge of your users by the exchange of information. To meet this goal it is in your best interest to have a lot of regular users that like to hang out in your channel so it's always active and inviting.

As soon as you have created your new chat, announce it on your web site, and set a schedule for several hosted chats each week.
At other times you should still leave the channel open and available to your users but don't expect it to get busy quickly. Regular users won't stay around long if the channel is empty. Because of this it is a good idea to be in it whenever you're at your computer. You should also encourage your message board moderators to do the same.
Greet new users and engage them in conversation. Ask them if they need help. Personal and friendly contact is a key component to the success of any business and this is the exact type of interaction you want to have with your chatters when they first "walk in."
When choosing ops (moderators) for your channel pick people that are patient, friendly and helpful. Avoid picking anyone that is controlling or abusive. Heavy handed moderators that impose strict rules are the quickest way to alienate your site's visitors and chase them away to another site! See How To Pick Channel Moderators (Ops) for more advice on this topic.
Avoid using bots or scripts that automatically kick people for swearing or other undesirable behavior. Instead give the errant user a few friendly warnings before taking more severe actions. You can also filter vulgarity with channel mode +G (/mode #channel +G ).
Remember, that your users will reflect your behavior. If you rule with an iron fist, the channel will be more prone to conflicts. Each time you kick and ban someone your users will be pleased with you, angry at you, frustrated that you used them inappropriately, or envious that you have control over the discussion. None of these reactions may be conscious on the part of other users, but all of them increase the channel temperature. Its better to use positive reinforcement than reaching for the big stick or in this case the kick/ban menu! See What is the best way to run or moderate a channel? for more information on this topic.
Today's n00bs are tomorrow's experts. Your channel should be a place where people with knowledge lead by example. Don't forget that helping other people takes patience. It's better not to answer a question than to use the opportunity to emphasize the limitations of the person you're trying to help!
Take some time to read through the WyldRyde IRC Network Frequently Asked Questions and feel free to ask additional questions in the #help channel if there is anything you don't understand or are unclear about. The WyldRyde Staff also welcomes your input and suggestions.