This is spot on. While we have gotten some members from the LFG tool, the fact that they are automatically referred to our web site and have to fill out an application deters 90% of them. Everybody, even brothers-in-law or the dreaded BFF, needs to have an interview with either me or an officer and must read our Code of Conduct. This way, everyone is treated the same.

I would ask Conflicted if he or she really wants all these people in his or her guild. Do they have slots that need filling in raids? Are they looking for specific classes or have open enrollment? If they don't actually need more people, a guild-wide announcement that, temporarily, recruitment is suspended will slow down the inquiries. But that suspension needs to come with a offer to apply via a web site application. "Each application is reviewed on merit" removes the overt idea that you are picking and choosing, even if you are.

What about a 30-day "get to know us" rank? At the end of 30 days, someone gets promoted to full rank in the guild or is told, "Thanks, but, after long discussion, the officers and I don't feel you're a good fit here." Knowing you only have to put up with someone for 30-days makes them tolerable. It's possible, once you play with them, you can be more specific about what grates on you ("Your personality is not a good fit with the guild." "You just can't seem to not stand in stuff." "You're not real good at following directions." ) or they will discover you look better from a different side of the fence. It's been my experience that people who make it through our "get to know us" period, tend to stick around a lot longer and come to understand us better.

It's something to consider.