🛡️ Moderation Playbook

How to Moderate Self-Promotion on Mighty Networks

Mighty Networks

Self-promotion on Mighty Networks refers to members posting content that advertises their own products, services, events, or social channels, often for personal gain rather than community benefit. This issue is common in online communities, as people seek to leverage community audiences for their business or personal interests.

Unmoderated self-promotion can clutter feeds, undermine trust, and turn engaged members away. It can also make your group feel less like a genuine community and more like an advertising board. Addressing self-promotion quickly and consistently is crucial for maintaining a healthy and engaged Mighty Networks community.

🚨 Red Flags to Watch For

⚠️ excessive links
⚠️ repeated posting of same content
⚠️ posts with coupon codes
⚠️ requests to DM for details
⚠️ affiliate links
⚠️ posts with sales language
⚠️ off-topic promotional posts
⚠️ direct promotion of services
⚠️ messages with 'buy now'
⚠️ posts inviting to external groups
⚠️ multiple posts in short time
⚠️ comments with product pitches
⚠️ use of ALL CAPS for offers
⚠️ overuse of hashtags
⚠️ unsolicited private promotional messages

What to Look For

Warning signs of self-promotion on Mighty Networks include posts containing frequent links to outside sites, repeated mentions of personal brands, or calls to follow, subscribe, or purchase. Members may post the same promotional content in multiple groups or discussions, or send unsolicited private messages to other members promoting their offerings.

Other red flags include posts that are off-topic or unrelated to the community’s purpose, excessive use of sales language, and posts with minimal genuine engagement with others’ content. Monitoring for these signs helps moderators spot self-promotion early and take action before it disrupts the group.

Why This Happens

Self-promotion happens because members see active communities as valuable platforms to reach new audiences or boost their own ventures. Some users may not understand the difference between sharing helpful resources and promoting their own interests, especially if guidelines are unclear.

On Mighty Networks, the ease of posting, commenting, and messaging can make it tempting for individuals to promote themselves, particularly if they see others doing the same without consequence. A lack of clear boundaries or inconsistent moderation can further encourage this behavior.

Immediate Actions

  • 1 Remove the promotional post
  • 2 Send a private warning to the member
  • 3 Document the incident in moderation logs
  • 4 Check member’s recent activity for patterns
  • 5 Inform other moderators of the action taken
  • 6 Monitor the member for repeat behavior

How to Respond

When self-promotion occurs, act quickly to minimize its impact. Remove the offending post or comment, and document the incident for future reference. Reach out privately to the member, referencing the community guidelines and explaining why their content was removed.

If the member is a repeat offender, escalate your response with a warning or temporary suspension. Encourage open dialogue and invite them to participate in ways that add value to the community. Always remain professional and consistent to maintain trust among all members.

Monitor the situation after your intervention. Watch for additional self-promotional activity from the same member or others who may follow their lead. Adjust your guidelines or moderation processes if you notice patterns emerging.

🎯 Prevention Strategies

  • Set clear anti-promotion guidelines in onboarding materials
  • Use Mighty Networks’ post approval for new or high-risk members
  • Educate members on what constitutes self-promotion
  • Pin community rules in prominent locations
  • Enable and encourage member flagging of suspicious posts
  • Regularly remind members about promotion policies
  • Recognize and reward authentic contributions

Example Scenarios

Scenario:

A new member posts a link to their coaching website in three groups.

Response:

Remove the posts, privately warn the member, explain guidelines, and monitor future activity.

Scenario:

A member sends unsolicited DMs advertising their course.

Response:

Ask recipients for evidence, issue a warning, and suspend messaging privileges if repeated.

Scenario:

A long-time member shares a discount code in a discussion.

Response:

Remove the post, remind the member of guidelines, and offer alternative ways to contribute.

Scenario:

A member frequently comments with links to their YouTube channel.

Response:

Flag and remove self-promotional comments, send a warning, and watch for future violations.

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With customizable keyword monitoring and seamless integration, StickyHive reduces manual workload and ensures prompt action. Try StickyHive to keep your Mighty Networks community focused, welcoming, and free from unwanted promotion.

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FAQs

What counts as self-promotion on Mighty Networks?

Self-promotion includes posts, comments, or messages that advertise personal products, services, or external sites for personal gain.

How do I set up post approval for new members?

In Mighty Networks admin settings, enable post approval for all or selected groups to review content before it goes live.

What if a member claims they did not know the rules?

Refer them to the posted guidelines, explain the policy, and clarify expected behavior for future participation.

Can I allow some forms of self-promotion?

Yes, if you set clear limits and dedicated spaces for it, like a monthly promo thread, and communicate those boundaries.

What should I do about repeated offenders?

Escalate responses, including warnings, suspensions, or removal from the community for consistent violations.

How can members help with moderation?

Encourage use of the 'report' feature and educate members to recognize and flag self-promotional content.