In a guild like ours where raid priority will be competitive for 25s (and has been for 10s), its important to know how to act. The officer team is constantly evaluating players, both on and off the field. Some folks see this as intimidating, but its best viewed as exciting. Here everyone has an opportunity to prove their value and maturity as a player every day. Believe it or not, you can do more to secure or damage your chances at a raid spot while benched than while in a raid!
Why Does the Officer Team Take a Given Player?
This is a complicated question and with all complicated questions there are a variety of answers. The one everyone knows is “because Player A is extremely good at their class/role.” This is important, as the goal is to give the best players an opportunity to secure spots.
Some people think that officers will select a certain player because they’re more geared. This is partly true, but less true than one might think. According to aggregate logs, the gear difference from players running Ulduar and players entering ICC was roughly 15%. By comparison, raid buffs contribute to a gain of as much as 50% more DPS when compared to soloing. After a certain base level of gear, gear becomes a much less significant factor.
That said, those who’ve taken the effort to get geared outside of raids make life easier for everyone. Coming in needing fewer upgrades, they’re less of a burden on the raid. Players who make this effort will always be looked upon favorably.
Finally, the officer team might not know what a player can do. If we haven’t seen someone in action, or want to give them a fair shot, its normal to bench another raider to make this a possibility. This does not mean you’ve been replaced. If you want your guild to succeed, you should be excited for this opportunity to grow.
Why Does the Officer Team Bench a Particular Player?
Let’s cover the obvious ones first. If you’re pulled from a raid because you kept dying, two things are true: first, it isn’t the healer’s fault; second, you need to review the encounter and reasons for your death and find out how to personally avoid them. Being pulled out here is an opportunity for you to improve.
If you’re not taken to a raid it could also be because there were people in your role who fit the reasons listed above better. This happens. Take the opportunity to listen in on the raid, if you can. Don’t fill the space with suggestions, but prove your dedication and availability. This goes a long way. Also, re-watch videos and re-read strategies. In short, be ready to step up and impress!
Best Practices
Do not assume because you’re in a raid that you’re better than those benched.
Do not stew with feelings of resentment toward the officer team if you are not taken to a particular raid. Talk to the officer in your role or your raid leader. Do not get upset without clarifying the situation.
Do not bother an officer if you only want to complain.
Be critical of yourself.
Don’t just talk the talk, walk the walk. If you’ve only watched the video once and are fuzzy on the details, watch another video. Ask questions and listen to the answers. Get a clear understanding of roles beyond your own.
Mind Spike 