It's kind of scary to post for the first time in a community, so when they do, I engage with them in an authentic way.
Geriann, Community Admin
Key Tips
- Create engaging posts and ask open-ended questions that lead to conversation.
- Use polls with simple questions so all members can easily participate.
- Comment on member posts and participate in discussions as a fellow community member.
Ever feel like you’re the only one posting to your community? You’re not alone, this happens in every community, especially at the beginning. There can be a number of reasons why people may not actively participate in your community. Just as there are introverts and extroverts in any real-world gathering, there are active and less vocal folks online.
Some members want to comment on everything. Others may read or observe an ongoing discussion without participating, and only sometimes comment. Experienced community admins remind us that many quiet members are still getting value from your community. They're a part of your community, too.
Put yourself in a new member's shoes: What are the top few things you'd want to know about a community and its members before contributing? Use the community description and welcome post to explain some of these community basics. This helps members feel comfortable participating confidently.
Some members might need ideas about what to post. Asking easy, open-ended questions is a great way to increase community participation. If a less active member responds, interacting with them in the comments can let them know their voice matters. Many admins use polls to encourage less vocal members to add their opinion with a single tap. Going Live in your community allows members to comment and connect with you in real-time. Admins tell us that even members who are reluctant to post will sit in on a Facebook Live. Once people participate in these ways, they might feel more comfortable posting on their own.
Another great way to start conversation and bring your group closer together is with Community Chats. These are casual spaces for you and your members to have real-time and/or small group discussions, allowing them to express themselves authentically through more conversations and deeper engagement. Learn more about it here.
