What advice would you give tanks in your MMO?

I’ve danced through many roles in MMOs, but the one that remains largely explored for me is that of the tank. Oh, the idea of being wrapped up in a comforting layer of hit points and armor is undeniably attractive — especially after having played many squishies — but I have never taken a shine to being the vanguard in dungeons.

It seems, at least to me, that MMOs have the hardest time convincing players to take up the mantle of tanks, considering how in-demand and scarce they tend to be. Maybe it’s the fear of letting your entire team down by not being able to protect them, or perhaps it’s the stress of needing to know dungeon layouts and boss fights perfectly to avoid scorn.

You all are smart (allegedly)! So whether or not you’ve played a tank in your MMO, what advice would you give to a player starting out in this role? What takes an average tank and makes him or her an exceptional one?

TH