Build a more human internet, w/Caterina Fake (Etsy, Kickstarter, Flickr, "Should This Exist?")

Behavior Moderation

Behavior moderation in online communities is a delicate balance between encouraging positive interactions and curbing negative ones. Reid Hoffman emphasizes the importance of invigorating good behavior from the outset, creating a foundation that can withstand the inevitable challenges posed by problematic users 1. He shares an example from LinkedIn, where they capped connection scores to maintain meaningful interactions, illustrating how non-decisions can inadvertently empower extreme users 2.

First, invigorate the good behavior from day one. Make that the foundation of your community.

--- Reid Hoffman

By setting clear expectations and limits, communities can foster a more positive environment that drowns out undesirable behavior.

   

Rule Establishment

Establishing rules is crucial for maintaining the integrity of online communities. Reid Hoffman argues that every platform, whether a marketplace or social media, is an online community that must set guardrails early to prevent chaos as it grows 3. He highlights Caterina Fake's role in shaping iconic companies like Flickr, which introduced conventions now standard in social media 3.

One rule of whatever you are when you're small gets amplified when you're big.

--- Reid Hoffman

Her journey from rejection to revolution underscores the importance of setting a clear vision and rules that guide community evolution 4.