5 Things Great Community Managers Have in Common with Great People Managers

5 Things Great Community Managers Have in Common with Great People Managers

Community management and people management may seem like two completely different roles, but there are actually several commonalities between the two. Both require a deep understanding of human behavior and a commitment to providing support and service to those under their care. In this article, we will explore five key areas where great community managers and great people managers overlap, and how these similarities can be applied in both roles.

1. Providing Service to Others

At the core of both community management and people management is the idea of providing service to others. In both roles, the primary focus is on supporting and assisting those who are in their care. Whether it's direct reports or community members, a great manager understands that their role is to reduce roadblocks and create an environment where individuals can thrive.

In the context of community management, this means understanding the needs and challenges of community members. It involves being an internal advocate for the community and ensuring that their voices are heard within the larger organization. Similarly, in people management, it means being a champion for your team and advocating for their needs and concerns within the company.

2. Creating a Supportive Environment

Another commonality between great community managers and great people managers is the ability to create a supportive environment. Both roles require creating an atmosphere where individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.

In community management, this means reducing barriers to participation and fostering a sense of belonging. It involves providing the necessary tools, resources, and guidance for community members to thrive. Similarly, in people management, it means creating a work environment where employees feel supported, encouraged, and motivated to excel.

Whether it's facilitating discussions and collaboration in a community or providing opportunities for growth and development in a team, the goal is to create an environment that brings out the best in individuals.

3. Embracing Flexibility and Adaptability

Flexibility and adaptability are crucial qualities for both community managers and people managers. In both roles, it's essential to recognize that individuals' needs and circumstances can change over time. Great managers understand this and are willing to adapt their approaches to accommodate these changes.

In community management, it means understanding that community members' engagement levels may fluctuate based on external factors like seasonality or personal circumstances. It also means recognizing that individuals may outgrow the community at some point, and that's okay. The role of the community manager is to support individuals throughout their journey, even if it means letting them move on when the time is right.

Similarly, in people management, it means recognizing that employees have different needs and aspirations at different stages of their careers. Great managers are willing to adapt their management style to support their team members' growth and development, even if it means allowing them to explore new opportunities outside of the team.

Actionable Advice:

1. Prioritize service: Whether you're a community manager or a people manager, make serving others your top priority. Understand their needs, advocate for them, and create an environment where they can thrive.

2. Foster a supportive environment: Create a culture of support and empowerment. Provide the necessary tools, resources, and guidance for individuals to excel in their roles.

3. Embrace flexibility and adaptability: Recognize that individuals' needs and circumstances can change over time. Be willing to adapt your approach to accommodate these changes and support individuals throughout their journey.

In conclusion, great community managers and great people managers share several commonalities. Both roles require a focus on service, the ability to create a supportive environment, and a willingness to be flexible and adaptable. By recognizing and embracing these similarities, managers can excel in both community and people management, ultimately creating thriving communities and high-performing teams.