Should we invite active contributors to become moderators?

[StellaW]

I’ve noticed a few regular posters in our community who are always helpful but never put themselves forward for a moderator role. I’m wondering if we should be more proactive in reaching out to them, maybe with a direct invitation. It just feels like we might be missing out on some great potential because we rely solely on open applications.

[JeffreyJ]

I tried inviting a couple of folks who were always helpful to consider becoming a moderator. They seemed flattered but asked for time to think, and nothing happened after a few weeks.

[Nicholas.H]

We sent direct invites last quarter and got one positive reply, another person asked to stay in the background, and a third never replied. It felt more human than posting an open call.

[ThomasH]

Sometimes I wonder if the real hold up is bandwidth, not willingness. People juggle tasks and worry about power dynamics, not about being seen as the chosen one.

[Hannah27]

Do we really want to pull from the top posters, or is there a different path that respects tenure and helps folks grow into it?