 | This is an essay. It contains the advice or opinions of one or more Wikipedia contributors. This page is not an encyclopedia article, nor is it one of Wikipedia's policies or guidelines, as it has not been thoroughly vetted by the community. Some essays represent widespread norms; others only represent minority viewpoints. |
 | This page in a nutshell: WP:NOTNOW is designed to not deter newcomers from Wikipedia should they submit an RfA that will clearly fail due to their lack of experience or tenure. Linking the essay from an established editor's RfA is unhelpful at best, and could be seen as condescending or rude. |
While adminship is intended for established editors, occasionally enthusiastic newcomers decide to visit requests for adminship and give it a try themselves. Typically these attempts are quickly closed following a barrage of opposes linking to the essay WP:NOTNOW. When the candidate clicks on the WP:NOTNOW link, they will see an essay that explains to newcomers what adminship is and why it's not something that's "in their league" at this time. Ideally, the newcomer will read the essay, recognize that the opposes weren't personal, and gain a better understanding of what adminship is and is not.
On the other hand, occasionally a long-term, established editor will appear at RfA, and for whatever reason – perhaps poor answers to the "optional" questions, or inadequate experience in certain areas valued by RfA participants, or temperament concerns – some people will oppose their candidacy. They may even say that while they are opposing now, they will be open to reconsidering later, once the areas of concern have been addressed.
Sometimes these opposes will include a link to WP:NOTNOW.
This is not a good idea.