User blog:Opheuchus/New Application Rule

Hello. I'm going to make a new rule because this has been bothering me for a long time. And no, that does not mean that I'm reallowing applications.

What usually happens if someone applies for a rank is that they say why they deserve the rank, and then they make a poll so users can vote on whether they will actually get the rank or not. This is not a good system, because a user will tend to list only the good things about them and there really isn't a way we can make users say bad things about themselves. It just isn't going to happen.

This was a huge problem especially with PL's application because true to form, he listed only good things about himself, which swayed users into voting for him.

https://big-nate-comments.fandom.com/f/p/3100000000000001511

The initial vote only peaked at about 70% in favor (PL counted his vote when he said the poll was 75-25). However, once the opposition had something to say about that, the votes were brought down to 50% being in favor of PL, none of which were admins. The only reason his poll was so high was because no one had a chance to say anything against it. There was really nothing anyone could do about it.

Before a poll is posted, anyone should be able to list their oppositions and say why they disagree with the person being promoted to their desired rank. That way, when users cast their ballots, they will know all the positives and negatives about the applicant; not just the positives.

New Rule
Here's what will happen when a user wants a rank.
 * 1) They post an application.
 * 2) Anyone can post their oppositions.
 * 3) Then a poll is made with the permission of an admin.
 * 4) Finally, admins can decide based on the vote.

Final Words
I usually like to test new regulations to see what other users think and I will change it if anyone can provide convincing feedback. However, I am making this an iron-clad policy. There is no changing this rule because then, aspiring admins and mods won't get supporters who believe everything they see. Even though an applicant's resume might be all good, not every application is a home run.