For Anyone Thinking of Applying
I don't agree with the 2nd point, I think if the player wants to be a helping team member then some in game badge shouldn't be a factor in his/her decision.
I agree with the rest, it is important to identify help squad members in game as they are probably the first people you would go to if you have some question about the game.
tbh anyone that would choose to send in an application based on whether or not they get a staff badge shouldn't be in the Help Squad.
Your other points are valid and I agree with them.
There is a significant difference between the 'shouldn't' and the reality. It's the little things that would attract people, and with the amount (and type) of work being done with very little reward or recognition, every little helps, as it is human instinct to veer away from something that does not grant you personal gain, that's just reality. All this whilst also helping to give some recognition to these members of the community.
tbh anyone that would choose to send in an application based on whether or not they get a staff badge shouldn't be in the Help Squad.
I am wondering how attracting more people to apply would be a good thing if those people would apply for the sake of rewards that they get.
I agree with smag and ele
Enter onthe help squad in order to win an item, I think it will end the chances of that person becoming a good helper.
Badges are made by item forgers, so if you want this to be made, post on their mega thread about it.
About identification: The higher-ups haven't expressed that they would like for HS to have in-game identification. It takes a lot of convincing and when I was HS I would have to stay up until 2 A.M. just to talk to someone about ideas and the direction of HS. Needless to say, I can't do that anymore.
About HS: Help Squad, in my opinion, is at a good position right now. It does not need to rapidly expand into unfamiliar territories, it will cause a burnout within its members. They are already taking up more responsibility by sitting in beginner rooms and talking to new people, which, quite frankly, is very rigorous and boring. So, as long as HS helps new people by teaching them new things, engaging with them and getting them involved with the community, that is all that should matter. It's all about getting user retention up.
Also: if you're worried about getting rewarded for being staff or having a colored name on the forums or in-game, please don't apply. Put your time and energy someplace else.