Avoiding "us vs. them" mentality?

**Soliloquy** · 07-23-2008, 10:56 AM

I've been planning to set up a private forum or two for donaters/subscribers, but this thread brought up the fact that it might create an "us vs. them" mentality. I've seen this happen on a forum I set up for someone else, and it really wasn't pretty. And yet, I do think my members need a forum shielded from Google where they can talk about subjects I wouldn't want on the main forum. Is there any way to do this--entice people to subscribe/donate and have a private forum--without having the members divide into camps? I considered making the forum available when they hit a certain number of posts, has anyone done that instead?

**Caddyman** · 07-23-2008, 08:58 PM

the most important thing is to make it clear everywhere you talk about your paid subscription that donations, post count, rep count, time on site, does NOT make their opinion on a issue, their say in site matters, their rules any different than anyone elses. everyone on my sites is on a level playing field and they know it

i would ban a premium member just as fast as a new member for a serious offense

everyone gets their say, new or paid, in a heated discussion and respect must be shown equally. this goes for me too, i stress often that my opinion in a topical discussion hold no more weight then anyone else's.

you can't buy your way out of the rules, newbs, premium, staff, doesn't matter.

outline all that when appropriate in various threads and that will help in keeping away from the pack mentality.

**Rocket 442** · 07-24-2008, 08:14 PM

Caddy pretty much covered it. You may want to give the person who's helped out a bit more slack, but it's not worth it for you or your users.

**Caddyman** · 07-25-2008, 05:53 AM

let me also say, some here prolly disagree with supporters and the site issues thing. many admins will give their VIP's a private section to discuss anything, and sometimes will talk with them about site finances, suggestions on features and what have you, i think that is great, just wanted to clarify.

still though, in a heated debate, everyone should be treated equally.