Online Communities for Everyone
Sometimes too much of a good thing can be overwhelming. Just the other day I was in the grocery store shopping for some cereal. Seems like a simple task; however it wasn’t. I stood there for at least 30 minutes starring off into the cereal abyss. There was just too much! Too many colours, too many flavours and way too many cartoon characters trying to lure me into their sugary coma.
I finally just gave up and grabbed one. As I was walking to the check out point, I started thinking about when variety works.
Variety in online communities is a definite must! No one should have to settle for a community that is only so-so. The whole point of a social community is to be able to learn, grow and interact – no one is going to participate if they don’t feel satisfied.
So how do you find that perfect online community? First, you should decide what type you are searching for. B2B & B2C offers you two choices.
You can choose from communities that serve their market and/or communities that serve their customers and clients. These external communities open the door for people to discuss their interests, concerns and ideas.
Internal communities serve their employees and partners. Say goodbye to the suggestion box! Employees and partners now have a safe platform to speak their mind (within reason of course). This type of community is designed to create a strong relationship within the business. After all, happy employees equal happy customers.
Melting pot communities - or better known as hybrid communities – are all of these delightful platforms blended together. If you can’t choose just one, pick the community that gives you everything. The advantage of these communities is that the individual has more power.
One last thought, if none of these communities peak your interest, go out and make your own! That’s what is so great about the digital world! You can create your own community that tailors to your needs.
Robin Ray
