Potential adjustments to mentor system icons

[Eorzean_username]

As a still-learning player (about 6 months now I think), many of the times when I encounter a 'Mentor' player in my Roulettes, they're either very mean, very sarcastic, very impatient, or completely ignore players who obviously need tips or are struggling.

While I continue to see plenty of kindness from Sprouts and unmarked players.

To be fair, I've also met very many nice Mentors, but the Crown icon isn't very effective — I don't see a Crown and think 'Oh good, someone I can turn to for help', because I've witnessed abuse by more Crowns than Sprouts or any other symbol.

Being honest, my first reaction to a Crown is: 'Oh no, a bitter jaded veteran'. It's more intimidating than inspiring.

I never made the connection before, but I think the OP has an interesting insight — the Crown might be too much of a status symbol, attracting many individuals with no interest in teaching or guidance.

[ChameleonMS]

I fully support the watering can icon idea. I have greeting macro "Hello adventures .... Feel free to ask me anything."
Just yesterday, it was somewhat gratifying to see this response to my hello macro. "Ow, Hi, a mentor actually trying to do his job."

[MissChibi]

Yes! A watering can would be perfect!

[Hasrat]

As an alternative icon suggestion, why not a tree? New players start out as little sprouts, with time can grow into big trees. Can maybe possibly help discourage players just in it for the status symbol by being similar to the sprout, and "those" types probably wouldn't want to be associated with any sprout. And by being similar, can be something for the sprouts to gravitate to.

[Sida]

I think that in some ways, tree too can be seen sort of majestic. Also as an allegory of growing up, it can be seen as sign of "geaduating", having gotten to a point above others, same as the crown now. A side path needs to be taken to designate those that want to look after others and I can not see why majority of people would want to wear watering can just for the sake of it. That's why I too think the watering can for mentors would be adorable.