Is there a way for users to share a form or submit a request if they’re interested in becoming a moderator? I’m not specifically asking about Meta but more broadly for any platform that’s built on Discourse. I’d love to know if there’s an easy way to set this up, like allowing users to fill out an application or share their interest directly within the forum.
AI-generated summary
The discussion is about setting up moderator application requests on a Discourse platform. MihirR inquired about allowing users to submit a request or fill out an application to become a moderator. ondrej and Ed_S advised against users asking to become moderators, suggesting instead that admins and mods should select suitable candidates based on factors like membership length, contributions, and trustworthiness. Ed_S also mentioned that mods should discuss and agree on candidate users to approach privately.
Alternatively, tobiaseigen pointed out that active, contributing members are automatically granted moderator-like powers over time through the trust level defaults. Lilly and CocoQuark shared relevant links to Discourse meta topics, including a guide on trust level permissions. JimPas shared their experience from another forum, where mods discuss and agree on candidate users, then have an administrator reach out to them. Ultimately, MihirR decided to let the admins and mods handle the process.
4 Likes
The easiest way would be to just PM the admin. Other commons ways are google forms etc.
However, users should really not be asking to become a moderator. Admin(s) should pick users best suited for moderator on factors such as how long they’ve been a member, their contributions, are they trust worthy? etc.
6 Likes
I would think the answer is to message the mods - or the admin perhaps.
(I’ve said elsewhere that selecting the right moderators and maintaining the right moderator culture is incredibly important. For me, if more mods are needed, the mods will discuss that, and will agree on some candidate user to approach privately. Someone who is engaged, polite, helpful, never angry or rash.)
Edit: crossed in the post!
5 Likes
3 Likes
In addition, note that the trust level defaults are set up in such a way that over time active, contributing members are given moderator-like powers like the ability to edit titles and change the category, etc. So there is no need to ask for moderator privileges - you will get them over time automatically.
4 Likes
Woah, I was actually wondering the same thing! I recently posted in the wrong category and saw someone fix it, but I noticed they weren’t a mod. I was gonna ask how they did it, but it totally slipped my mind.
2 Likes
Thanks for the advice everyone. I’ll keep that in mind and will now let the admins and mods work their magic and stop the hunt. 
2 Likes
This is a very well-presented and helpful reference to keep in bookmarks:
3 Likes
On another forum I moderate, we mods would discuss a likely candidate and then PM an administrator. They in turn would check out that person’s posts/replies and, usually, PM that person asking if they would like to be a moderator. That has worked out successfully so far.
I do like those 4 qualities for a prospective mod candidate. 
9 Likes