When it comes to community building, there is no ‘one way’. There are tried and tested techniques, but nothing is guaranteed. Community building is a continuous learning process. Here is what I have learnt over the past nine years.
You can’t build a welcoming, healthy community if members don’t trust each other. If they don’t trust you as the community manager, your community is doomed. If you can’t be honest, get out of the community building business.
Online communities can be overwhelming places for new members. Regardless of your community’s size, some people will just feel lost and end up leaving – even after an initial period of engagement. Keep members active and engaged by providing them with a community roadmap.
A strong online community is a successful online community. Strong online communities can withstand anything – the loss of old members, the introduction of new members and pressure from your competitors. Follow these tips and make strengthening your community a priority.