Starting a new online community is a lot like launching a business or hosting a big event: it takes way more work than most people expect, especially in the early days. If you want your community to thrive, you have to be the one putting...
Latest Blogs
The Power of Subgroups: Why Segmentation is the Secret Sauce of Thriving Online Communities
Remember the last time you walked into a party where you didn't know anyone? That overwhelming feeling of being lost in a sea of faces? That's exactly how members feel in large, unsegmented online communities. The Magic of Breaking Things...
Community Manager’s Gift Guide: Tools and Gadgets That Changed My Game
Let me share some things that transformed my work life - when you're spending hours connecting with members and coworkers, the right tools make all the difference. Here's my curated list of game-changers that any community professional...
Ultimate Community Professional Bluesky Starter Packs
Updated Dec. 4, 2024 Recently, there has been a notable shift of people moving to BlueSky, including many community managers and professionals seeking a fresh space for connection and collaboration. This platform offers a unique...
PLATO: The Birth of Online Community in Education
What is PLATO? PLATO, which stands for Programmed Logic for Automatic Teaching Operations, made its debut in 1960 at the University of Illinois. While it was initially designed to facilitate computer-assisted learning, PLATO quickly...
Community Building: A Marathon, Not a Sprint
Community building. It's an exciting journey, but one that requires patience and perseverance. Think of it not as a sprint, where instant results are the goal, but as a marathon that demands endurance and strategic pacing. Let’s explore...
Introducing Community Pros
I'm excited to introduce Community Pros, a groundbreaking platform I've founded, aimed at connecting individuals and organizations with verified community and social media experts. Today, fostering authentic relationships is more...
Minimum Viable Guide to Launching a Community
Please note that this is a very simplified outline, but it can lead to a successful community. For a far more in depth guide please check out The Ultimate Checklist for Launching a Community. First and foremost.... Don’t start a community...
A Guide for New Reddit Moderators
Whether you've created a new subreddit or joined an existing mod team, this role comes with exciting opportunities and responsibilities. This guide will walk you through essential tips and best practices to help you succeed as a Reddit...
Ultimate Bookshelf for Community Professionals
Updated: Apr. 3, 2025 Community management is both an art and a science, requiring a blend of strategic thinking, empathy, and practical tools. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned professional, the right books can be your...
Strategies to Boost Engagement and Activity
Reinvigorating Your Online Community When an online community begins to show signs of slowing down, it can be a concerning moment for community managers and members alike. A vibrant community is the lifeblood of engagement, providing a...
Crafting a Compass: Developing an Effective Code of Conduct for Thriving Online Communities
Online communities have become vibrant spaces for sharing ideas, fostering friendships, and building professional networks. However, as these virtual gathering places grow, so does the complexity of interactions among their members. This...