The Importance of Community Management and The Right Thing 101: A Beginner's Guide

The Importance of Community Management and The Right Thing 101: A Beginner's Guide

Introduction:

In today's interconnected world, community management has become increasingly important. But what exactly is community management, and why is it gaining so much significance? In this article, we will explore the fundamentals of community management and its relevance in today's society. Additionally, we will delve into the principles of doing the right thing, as outlined by John Maxwell, and how they align with effective community management. By connecting these two topics, we aim to provide actionable advice for those looking to enhance their community management skills.

What is Community Management?

At its core, community management revolves around fostering connections between users. It involves intervening in relationships to facilitate their initiation, maintenance, strengthening, or reorganization. Communities can be classified along two axes: dynamic vs. static and purpose vs. emotional attachment. Alternatively, they can be categorized based on interest, place, action, and practice. Regardless of the classification, communities play a crucial role in our lives and can be leveraged for learning and personal growth.

The Parallels between Community Management and Customer Success:

Interestingly, the importance of community management mirrors that of customer success. Just as customer success focuses on ensuring the satisfaction and achievement of customers, community management centers around fostering meaningful connections between users. Both disciplines recognize the inherent value of relationships and their impact on overall success. By leveraging the knowledge and support within communities, individuals and businesses can thrive.

The Power of Word-of-Mouth and Community Contributions:

Word-of-mouth is a powerful force in the business world. In fact, studies have shown that 84% of B2B purchase processes begin with a referral, and 81% of individuals trust business advice from friends and family. Within communities, there tends to be a contribution imbalance known as the 1-9-90% rule. This rule suggests that only 1% of community members actively contribute, 9% engage sporadically, and the remaining 90% are passive observers. As community managers, it is crucial to encourage active participation and ensure that contributions are valued and acknowledged.

Preventing Community Decline:

Just as communities can flourish, they can also decline. Community decline often occurs due to member stagnation, a degradation of purpose or interest, and changes in the composition of the community. To prevent decline, community managers must continuously assess and adapt to the evolving needs of their members. By fostering a sense of belonging, maintaining engagement, and facilitating connections, community managers can sustain vibrant and thriving communities.

The Principles of Doing the Right Thing:

Now, let's explore the principles of doing the right thing, as outlined by John Maxwell. These principles align with effective community management and can serve as a guide for community managers seeking to create a positive and supportive environment.

1. Valuing Others:
   Valuing others solely for their inherent worth as human beings forms the foundation of ethics. By recognizing and appreciating the unique contributions of each community member, community managers can foster a sense of belonging and create an inclusive environment.

2. Showing Appreciation:
   Expressing gratitude and acknowledging the efforts of community members is essential. Taking every opportunity to thank individuals and giving credit where it is due cultivates a culture of appreciation and encourages continued engagement.

3. Building Trust:
   Trust is the cornerstone of any successful community. Trusting community members not only promotes accountability but also encourages them to reciprocate the trust placed in them. By extending trust, community managers can foster an environment built on mutual respect and collaboration.

Actionable Advice for Community Managers:

1. Foster Active Participation:
   Encourage community members to actively contribute and engage with one another. Create opportunities for collaboration, such as hosting events, facilitating discussions, and recognizing valuable contributions. By fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment, community managers can increase active participation within the community.

2. Continuously Assess and Adapt:
   Regularly evaluate the needs and interests of community members. Stay attuned to any changes or shifts within the community and adapt community management strategies accordingly. By addressing evolving needs, community managers can ensure the longevity and relevance of the community.

3. Cultivate a Culture of Support:
   Create an environment where community members feel understood, respected, and supported. Actively listen to their concerns, provide guidance when needed, and encourage collaboration and empathy within the community. By fostering a culture of support, community managers can nurture meaningful connections and foster personal and professional growth.

Conclusion:

Community management plays a vital role in fostering connections and facilitating personal and professional growth. By understanding the importance of communities and incorporating the principles of doing the right thing, community managers can create thriving and supportive environments. By valuing, appreciating, trusting, respecting, understanding, and avoiding taking advantage of others, community managers can build strong communities that benefit all members. By following the actionable advice provided, community managers can enhance their skills and contribute to the success of their communities. So, whether you are a seasoned community manager or just starting out, remember the power of community and the importance of doing the right thing.