“More than half (58%) of consumers aged 25 to 34 say they’d be likely to spend more money on a brand’s products and services if they were part of its community “ ( marcommnews.com)
Consumers come together when they feel the brand represents them and their values. The internet has played a vital role in expanding online communities. Online communities allow consumers to share their brand experience and create valuable connection with one another. When a brand develops deep connection with consumers it increases customers trust and loyalty.
I share some tips on how to develop an online community:
- Show your expertise by sharing content – educate your customers and establish your brand as an expert in the field
- Create and distribute useful and relevant content to your audience and engage in conversations with the consumers
- Answer customers queries and address problems quickly
- Use video to develop deeper connection with your audience
- Create a space where users can interact with your brand
- Create a space where users interact with one another
- Incentive to encourage users participation
- The communities should be integrated as much as possible by using all online channels – website, social networks, mailing, forum, blog.
- The online communities should be two way communication between the brand and consumer and between consumers.
- Create community around a brand product -> Website, social media, newsletter, forum or a blog
Now it’s your turn to create your company online community.
Lisiane Ndong 