New Member Introductions FAQ: What to Post and Why It Matters
Why does MESO-Rx require new members to post an introduction?
MESO-Rx requires introductions to protect members, reduce abuse, and support harm reduction. The forum discusses high-risk topics where scams, misinformation, and covert promotion are common. An introduction helps distinguish real participants from throwaway accounts, spam, and coordinated promotional activity. It also establishes basic context so moderation and discussion can function more accurately and fairly.
Is this just a formality or a rule for its own sake?
No. Posting an introduction is a practical safeguard, not a ritual. Accounts that skip introductions and immediately post questions, especially about sources or sensitive topics, are far more likely to attract unwanted attention, private-message scams, or moderation issues. Starting with an introduction helps your account integrate smoothly and reduces risk.
What does an introduction actually do for me?
An introduction signals that you are here to participate in good faith rather than looking for shortcuts or transactions. This makes experienced members more willing to engage with you, improves the quality of responses you receive, and helps you earn posting and messaging privileges more quickly. It also reduces the likelihood that your account is mistaken for spam or promotional activity.
Why is skipping the introduction considered poor etiquette?
MESO-Rx is a community, not a help desk or marketplace. Skipping the introduction and immediately asking for information suggests a transactional mindset rather than respect for the people who make up the forum. Posting an introduction is a basic courtesy that shows you recognize this as a shared space built on participation and mutual respect.
What makes a “good” introduction?
A good introduction is short, honest, and relevant. It tells the community a little about who you are in a general sense and what brought you to MESO-Rx. This can include your experience level, your interests, or what you hope to learn. The goal is context, not detail.
How long does my introduction need to be?
Introductions do not need to be long. A few sentences is more than enough. There is no minimum word count and no expectation of a detailed biography. Clear and sincere matters more than length.
What information should I include?
You may include general information such as your experience level, what topics interest you, or what you are hoping to learn from the forum. This helps other members understand how to respond to you appropriately. Keep it general and comfortable for you.
What information should I NOT include?
Do not include real names, addresses, phone numbers, exact locations, contact details, or anything that compromises your privacy or operational security. You are never required to share personal or identifying information to participate on MESO-Rx.
Can I ask questions or talk about sources in my introduction?
No. Introductions are not the place for questions, sourcing, or requests for recommendations. Their purpose is simply to introduce yourself. Source-related discussion and sensitive questions belong in designated areas and require earned posting privileges.
Where do I post my introduction?
Introductions must be posted in the New Member Introductions subforum. Posting an introduction elsewhere may result in it being moved or removed.
What happens after I post my introduction?
Once you have posted an introduction, you can begin participating elsewhere on the forum within the limits of new member privileges. Continued constructive participation helps unlock additional posting and messaging access over time.
What happens if I skip the introduction and post elsewhere?
Skipping the introduction often leads to delayed responses, thread removal, or moderation notices. This is avoidable. Posting an introduction first ensures your account starts on the right footing and prevents unnecessary friction.
What is the overall purpose of this requirement?
The purpose is harm reduction, community integrity, and mutual respect. Requiring introductions helps ensure that MESO-Rx remains a place for real discussion among real participants, rather than a forum dominated by spam, promotion, or transactional behavior.
If you are new, posting an introduction is the simplest way to show good faith, protect yourself, and become part of the community.
If you are new, posting an introduction is the simplest way to show good faith, protect yourself, and become part of the community.
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