Open Discussion on Muting!

Hi everyone!

As muting is a hot topic around here, I wanted to start an open conversation about it!

You all have been using the mute button to better curate your experience at 7 Cups! That is what the mute button was designed for. HOORAY :)

--------> Our team of dedicated mentors and moderators have the ability to execute a "moderator mute." When you receive a moderator mute, this is what should happen:

1) User is violating one of the community/chatroom guidelines

2) Depending on the nature of the comment, a moderator will give a warning to the individual. A warning should look like this:

?Hey XX, your behavior is currently in violation of chat room guidelines number X, could you go review this guideline??

3) The warning should be professional and kind.

If you are the recipient of a warning, no worries. It happens. It's all about how you react. It is okay to receive a warning, to learn from it and to grow. If you receive a warning, no big deal! Go take a look at the guidelines and come back to the chat room to continue the conversation. Accept it as a moment of growth!

4) If you continue to engage in the behavior, another warning may be given. If the behavior continues, you will be moderator muted.

5) A moderator mute will last 24 hours. Once 24 hours passes, you will be free to enter the chat rooms again.

6) You can receive up to 3 moderator mutes. Once you receive 3, you will receive a global mute, which can last up to one year.

@heather & I are constantly reviewing the mute reports & here are some helpful things you should know:

- There is no such thing as a ?hacker or troll mute?

- If a mute is unfair, we can release it.

- Overwhelmingly, our moderators are very careful with the moderator mute and use it sparingly. Incoming reports are fair.

------> What should you do if you receive a mute?

If you are muted, no big deal. It happens. Feel fortunate for the opportunity to grow and learn from your behavior. Take some time to review the chat room guidelines and try to better understand how to improve behavior in this space.

------->Moderator muting also helps to remove trolls quickly and protect the space. We are very very luck to have such a wonderful group of moderators. Please join me in thanking them for helping to keep our space safe!

------->Let's all take ownership of our own mutes and use them as personal growth moments! A mute is reflection of your personal behavior and only you are in control of that. Let's change the culture of muting.