Lindsay Renwick

This week, I was inspired by my colleague Richard Tseng’s post offering career resources to new grads getting into advertising. While reading the post, it occurred to me that I have spent time in the past offering advice to young people looking to get into the role of Community Moderator in digital agencies. Rather than sit on the advice and wait for people to come to me, I’ll offer them up in serialized post format to keep things fresh and digestible.

So, here’s the first question:

Q: What are the qualities and qualifications you look for in a Community Moderator?

A: There’s good news here, because this is really the type of job where attitude is often more important than experience. If you’re looking for work in a digital agency, you should expect that educational credentials like a college diploma or university degree will be table stakes for entry. That aside, there are some highly sought-after attitudes you can point out in an interview to increase your consideration:

• You’re a digital native: Do you whip out the smartphone to settle all trivia arguments and tweet your way through your favourite TV shows? If yes, then you’re on the right track.
• You’re smart and funny: If you’re the type of person who can turn up to the wrong party and still make friends, you definitely have an edge. If you can do that in writing, even better.
• You have good judgment: The peacemaker in your group of friends, you don’t fly off the handle over misunderstandings and you know how to apologize gracefully when the situation calls for it.
• You don’t mind working in the background: You’re ok with letting the brand you represent be the star and leave the personal glory-seeking up to the celebs and over-sharers.

If this sounds like you, then you’re probably well-suited to the job.

Stay tuned for follow up posts. These are all based on real questions I have fielded in the past.

1. What’s the typical day in the life of a community moderator?
2. What is the market like for community moderators?
3. Where to begin and whom to speak with?
4. Should I look for freelance or permanent work?
5. Can I work remotely?

Feel free to post any questions on the topic that you’d like to see covered!