I am purchasing a forum that has a couple thousand members and several mods. I am looking for a very smooth transition into the admin position.

What is the best way to go about doing this so you don't scare people off? I was thinking of having the current owner tell people that the forum has a new financial backer/owner, but that he will stil be the admin. Then over the course of a month or so, the current owner/admin will slowly fade out while I step in.

Is there any better way to do this?

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I think as long as you can prove to the new members that you're dedicated to the forum I don't think you need to deceive them on who the real admin is.

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Be extremely kind and courteous towards the members. Make sure that they are convinced that you are the right person to run the forums and that you are open to whatever suggestions that they may have. Create goals...let the members know that you have a plan to improve the forums in some way.

I wouldn't try anything shady such as the ex-admin just "disappearing", because then it may look more like he abandoned the forums and you are taking over...I would explain the sitation just as it is. It's always better if the previous owner can stick around, because many of the members probably have good relationships with him, but you don't need to say that he's going to stick around if he truly isn't. The members will learn to dislike you later on if you lie to them

I'd also send out a newsletter letting everybody know that the forums have a new owner, and you would like to welcome everybody back so that they can provide input.

Good luck, and congratulations on the purchase (if you have already made it)! Let us know how it goes

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Just tell the truth, and let them know up front what your plans are. Don't say at the beginning that you are not going change something that you have every intention of changing.

Bottom line is some people are going to complain. Don't waste your time on them. The result usually ends up in a long, unneeded thread in a public forum that does nothing but get more members nervous about the change.

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ATV Forum - Fantasy Football -

I have to agree with honesty here. It goes a long way.

Also honesty on the part of the departing owner/admin is also needed. Telling members and staff that they have lost interest or just don't have the time needed to devote is usually the best.

If you want to make changes let them know you would like to make some changes and ask what they would like to see. It's surprising what some of the staff ans members can come up to improve a board. After all it's the members that keep a board running and popular so why not let them have some input as well.

Also reasure the staff. Let them know that their positions are going to remain the same as before you took over. and that you are available if needed. With the previous owner/admin remaining even just for a month the transition should go smooth for most.

As stated here there are going to be those that will complain but once they see you are making things for the beter they'll come around as they get to know you better and become accustomed to your methods and reasons for decisions that you make.

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