What does a Moderator do?

Moderators are responsible for the facilitation, review, and guidance of a discussion or a debate and its related interactions. Moderators use a standard or guideline to ensure that all the content shared during a discussion or debate is appropriate and adheres to the organization's rules.

Moderators work in forums including social media, community events, and discussion panels or debates. A moderator works online and in-person and ensures the space where the discussion or debate takes place is a positive and safe one that promotes interaction. Moderators use their judgment to decide what information is approved or removed according to standards and guidelines. They also provide discussion topics, encourage participants to share, answer questions and define boundaries and rules for the group or discussion, and remove unrelated or inappropriate content. A moderator acts as a neutral participant during debates and discussion and holds participants to time limits while looking to keep them on the topic to answer questions and topics during their debate or discussion. Moderators need a minimum bachelor's degree in market research, marketing, psychology, or related fields. Some moderators also receive certification.