Harm reduction for developer relations teams

Public figures on the internet, especially those in developer relations, face significant risks to their mental health and well-being, with individuals from marginalized groups often enduring harassment and objectification. This article discusses the disproportionate burden on women and people of color and highlights the need for better harm reduction strategies within companies. It emphasizes the importance of mental health support, community moderation tools, and the proactive role of managers in fostering an environment where employees can thrive without fear. The piece advocates for companies to adopt practices like pre-moderating comments, using tools like blockparty.app for social media management, and setting clear moderation expectations with partners to protect their teams. By cultivating a supportive culture and taking concrete steps to mitigate online harassment, companies can ensure their public-facing roles remain sustainable and productive, aligning both human compassion and business interests.