The tendency to add more content as a default response, but this may not be the most effective solution.

What about focusing on conversations and engaging with existing group content as a way to reinvigorate the community.

I chat about different types of content and new ways to spark interest and improve group dynamics.

And if you need more support from me, get in touch as my subscription group is a great resource for fresh content and additional support.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

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In this episode I chat to Jade Jemma, a former corporate professional turned online entrepreneur, shares her journey from a successful corporate career to discovering the online course industry.

She found her passion for helping others and adapted her corporate strategies to the online world. Initially, Jade focused on getting clients rather than building an audience, but she soon realized the importance of expanding her reach.

She started offering memberships and online programs, using her innovative approach to grow her Facebook group rapidly. Jade's curiosity and desire for knowledge have kept her ahead of the game, and she encourages her clients to prioritize joy and authenticity in the crowded online space.

When it comes to online sales processes, Jade emphasizes the need to prioritize sales from the beginning and advises against getting caught up in website creation or professional photoshoots before focusing on sales.

She encourages individuals to explore different strategies that align with their values and bring excitement.

While she can provide proven frameworks and strategies, Jade emphasizes the importance of personal alignment and finding sales processes that feel right for each individual.

For more sales tips follow Jade here - https://www.instagram.com/freedomzest/

https://www.freedomzest.com/

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The importance of actively listening and engaging with members, rather than simply providing quick answers or content.

How to really connect with members, have conversations, and offer solutions that match their needs.

Remember my paid podcast or subscription group is a further resource for guidance and support in developing these skills.

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

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In this episode of the Community Champions podcast, we chat Facebook ads and funnels with guest Katie Colella.

https://www.instagram.com/katie_colella_social/

There are mixed opinions surrounding ads so it's great to learn from Katie as she shares her experience of using ads for her own business and clients, highlighting the role of ads in increasing visibility and nurturing potential clients.

We discuss the power of building communities through ads and leveraging the insights gained from ad campaigns.

The challenges and benefits of using ads, including the need for nurturing and creating touchpoints with potential clients.

The complexity and the overwhelming nature of the ads manager interface and the constant changes on Facebook.

How you can improve your understanding of ad results and metrics, particularly for conversion ads.

How tracking leads and determining the cost per lead can help evaluate the effectiveness of ad campaigns.

We also discuss the variation in cost per lead depending on the industry and target audience. Understanding the ROI and quality of leads is crucial when interpreting ad data.

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I highlight the need for engagement, conversation, and genuine interest in the members' needs.

This story will I hope help you to move members forward by offering paid services or valuable resources rather than letting them drift along on their own.

Because who knows, maybe they want some help from you!!

I want you to reflect on your approach, let me know how the garage forecourt analogy resonates you.

Message me - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

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Today is a great episode with the very wise Sarah Poynton-Ryan who has several large Facebook communtities and gives us some great advice on how she got started and how to grow an online business.

Including her funnels, use of WhatsApp and some really important reminders for us all in the online space about showing up.

And the story behind how we connected and she came to be my podcast guest.

Follow Sarah here - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=508628084

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In this episode of the Community Champions podcast, I discuss the concept of value in community engagement.

The true value in a free group lies in the individuals themselves, rather than just the content they provide.

Let'stalk about content labeled as "value content," which typically consists of informative tips and resources, often lacks interaction and engagement.

What if fostering connections, relationships, and discussions within a community is the most valuable aspect.

Preferences have shifted over time, with people now seeking more authentic and personalized content rather than heavily planned and branded material. It's better to focus on being present, showcasing their personality, sharing real-time experiences, and actively participating in conversations to create a sense of connection and uniqueness.

Personal value cannot be easily replicated through generic content and suggests that community leaders should prioritize building relationships over simply providing information.

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

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Sumantha McMahon is the founder of Upgrade Your Education Business, where she helps education business owners launch, grow, and scale their businesses.

Sumantha initially started her online journey as a tutor after leaving teaching and signing up on websites to find clients. She later explored social media, primarily Facebook, to market her services.

She believes in providing micro wins to her audience, offering valuable content that gives them a taste of how she can help. She emphasizes finding a balance between giving away free content and training the audience to value and invest in her services.

We discuss the importance of being transparent about running a business and not solely providing free support.

It takes a strategic approach to free offerings, with follow-up systems in place to nurture potential clients so we touch on the mindset around selling and the challenge of setting boundaries when helping others.

We both have teaching backgrounds, emphasize the importance of guiding and empowering clients rather than doing all the work for them.

One to listen to if you fall into the trap of giving all the answers for free in your group.

Link to Sumantha's website - https://www.upgradeyoureducationbusiness.com

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

In this episode of the Community Champions podcast, I discuss the concept of the quickest route not always being the best when it comes to growing a community.

Community builders often have numerous responsibilities and may feel the need to move quickly.

But simply providing quick fixes and ticking off tasks in a community group is not enough to ensure its success.

While it may be tempting to quickly like and heart posts or give prompt responses, this approach doesn't contribute to building a thriving community.

By replying too quickly and extensively, community builders may miss the opportunity to gather more information from members and guide them towards paid services.

It can work so much better taking the time to understand the underlying issues, asking questions, and providing valuable insights tailored to each individual's situation.

I am going to chat about how to foster engagement and create an environment where everyone feels included in discussions.

Today we evaluate the approach and consider whether they are prioritising quick fixes over meaningful interactions.

Today let's focus on understanding members' needs and guiding them toward appropriate support, ultimately helping them achieve their goals.

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In this episode I interview Viv Guy, a business growth strategist.

Viv shares her perspective on using social media to grow a business and explains that she built her first successful business without social media when it didn't exist as it does today.

Viv later delved into social media marketing with her second business but found herself overwhelmed and disconnected from her creative roots.

Now, she helps other businesses as a strategist and marketing coach to attract clients and get fully booked without relying on social media.

We both agree on many things including wasting time creating content without a clear purpose.

We also challenge the notion of constantly nurturing an audience and the belief that more visibility leads to automatic conversions.

Viv introduces the concept of the "flow zone," which refers to being in a state of creativity and productivity by eliminating distractions.

She suggests that entrepreneurs should focus on their core strengths and engage in activities that truly move their businesses forward, rather than getting caught up in the never-ending cycle of content creation driven by algorithms.

Many entrepreneurs feel frustrated when their social media efforts don't yield the desired results, leading them to question their skills and worth.

A lack of social media success doesn't reflect one's expertise and that marketing strategies need to be fine-tuned rather than simply producing more content.

Overall, the conversation provides insights into the challenges and opportunities of using social media for business growth and encourages entrepreneurs to explore a variety of marketing approaches beyond social media platforms.

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How often do you reflect on their own groups and consider whether their current approach is yielding the desired results. So you can focus on meaningful conversations rather than simply posting content.

Do you have a clear plan and strategy for their groups, aiming to generate relevant discussions and connections.

Building a successful group takes time and effort.

In this episode I highlight the significance of making connections within the first two weeks.

You may need to make necessary changes and tweaks to improve audience engagement, such as nurturing relationships and effectively communicating offerings.

I share about the importance of initiating conversations and directly sharing information about one's services, rather than relying solely on algorithms or passive engagement.

Listen to learn more of my proactive approach in growing their groups and adapting strategies as needed.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

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In this episode I interviews Matt Boyles, the CEO and founder of Fitter Confident You.

Matt's company provides online personal training tailored for gay, bi, trans, and queer individuals, focusing on building fitness, confidence, and strength.

Matt has a joyous ability to create a welcoming and inclusive community, where people feel a sense of belonging and support. The importance of values in a community and how Matt's group goes beyond just fitness, emphasizing kindness and creating a safe space for all members.

Matt explains his motivation behind starting the community, which stemmed from his own desire to join a fitness group that catered specifically to LGBTQ+ individuals without turning into a dating site.

He shares his approach of focusing on the journey and progress rather than aesthetics, promoting a healthier and more inclusive environment.

We discuss the role of a community host and the need for setting boundaries and making conscious decisions to maintain a positive atmosphere.

Matt shares his experience of finding balance between his personal and professional life, ensuring that he curates what he shares with the community while still maintaining his mental well-being. He reflects on the challenges he faced in the early stages of building his online business and the importance of learning how to manage his time and boundaries to avoid burnout.

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Many people make the mistake of using their free community to offer help and support without considering how to convert those members into paying clients.

It's important to find a balance where you can assist people without giving away too much for free and without neglecting your business goals.

I'll share some analogies to help you visualize this concept.

Imagine your free group as someone knocking at the door of your house or office.

When they join, you should warmly welcome them and engage in a brief conversation to understand their needs.

Then, you can guide them towards the specific resources or services you offer. Encourage them to take the next steps, such as booking a one-on-one session or exploring paid options.

Alternatively, think of your free group as a window into your business.

People passing by can see what you have to offer, but it's essential to reach out and interact with them. Open the window, greet them, and ask if you can assist them.

Don't just let them observe without taking any action.

Another analogy is the ticket booth at an attraction.

Think of your free community as the entrance area where people have access to some information or content. However, they must go through a gatekeeper to get to the valuable resources behind the gate.

Consider structuring your free group like a ticket office, where visitors receive a welcoming smile but also learn about the additional benefits available with a paid ticket.

Evaluate which version of a free group you currently have. Is it completely open, allowing anyone to roam freely without guidance?

Or do you provide some structure, welcoming newcomers and offering information about your paid offerings?

Find a balance that suits your goals. If you've been overly generous in your free group, it's not too late to make changes.

You can create a more structured and strategic approach, perhaps by implementing a ticket office concept.

Remember, you can still be helpful and kind to people in your free group, but it's crucial to define your objectives and align them with your business strategy.

If you need further assistance, feel free to contact me or join my paid subscription group.

Thanks for listening, and don't forget to subscribe for future episodes.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

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In this episode of the Community Champions podcast, I interview Kelly Cookson, a marketer and owner of Cheer Up Marketing.

Kelly specialises in email marketing and shares her insights on how email can be the foundation of building a community and fostering strong connections with an audience.

She emphasises the importance of starting with email as a primary channel rather than treating it as an afterthought.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/spamtowham

Kelly explains how she initially grew her email list from scratch, leveraging her existing connections and promoting her email newsletter called "The Cheer List." She highlights the gradual process of building her list and the commitment she made to send a weekly email to engage her subscribers consistently.

We discuss the drawbacks of relying solely on social media for community building and the challenges of maintaining a constant stream of content.

Kelly emphasises the importance of having a core content platform that you own and control, such as a website, blog, or podcast, where you can create valuable assets that represent your business and help people connect with your brand. She advises against solely focusing on social media without a clear marketing strategy and encourages redirecting efforts towards building a strong email list.

We touch on using social media as a funnel to drive people to an email list and the benefits of consistency in email marketing. Kelly suggests having multiple lead magnets, funnels, or opt-ins to attract subscribers and engage them with valuable content.

You can check out more from Kelly here -

https://www.cheerupmarketing.com/free

https://www.instagram.com/cheerupmarketing/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kcookson/

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In this episode of the Community Champions podcast, I discuss the concept of nurturing within a community.

I express my differing views on the topic and becasue for me a free group should not solely serve the purpose of long-term nurturing.

I believe that when people join a group, it's not just to learn about what someone does, but also to get to know them and determine if they are knowledgeable and aligned with their values.

Engaging in conversations with new members about paid services is not harmful, as it may address their immediate needs.

Meaningful conversations that lead to providing assistance and solutions, rather than "procrastinurturing"

I stress the importance of clarity regarding one's services and suggest nurturing after potential customers are aware of the available offerings.

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Caroline Strawson, a trauma-informed therapist and coach, specializes in helping individuals break free from toxic relationships, particularly narcissistic and domestic abuse.

She started her online journey on Facebook, using it as a safe space to connect with others during her personal healing journey. She later transitioned to network marketing and eventually retrained as a trauma therapist.

Caroline established the Facebook group "Narcissistic Abuse and Trauma Recovery for Women," which has grown to over 33,000 members. Safety and authenticity are essential in her community, as each profile is personally reviewed for approval. https://www.facebook.com/carolinejstrawson/about_contact_and_basic_info

Her passion lies in lifelong learning and serving others. She combines somatic work and positive psychology to help individuals understand the root causes of their trauma and achieve post-traumatic growth.

She has expanded her reach to various platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and podcasting. She believes in leading by example, providing support and help, and aligning her business with her values of integrity, compassion, and kindness.

She focuses on engaging with her audience and values authentic connections over the number of followers. Her team strives to respond to every message they receive, offering support and guidance at various stages of healing.

Being open and vulnerable as a way to connect with others and inspire them on their own healing journeys.

Caroline highlights the importance of trauma work in building a successful business and encourages continuous personal healing. She believes that investing in one's own training and learning from experts in the field is crucial for growth.

Her ultimate goal is to reach and help as many people as possible. She strives to create an inclusive community where individuals realize they are not alone and empower them to lead joyful lives.

Overall, Caroline Strawson's approach centers around building connections, providing support, and promoting healing for individuals who have experienced narcissistic and domestic abuse.

Her emphasis on authenticity, vulnerability, and continuous personal growth has contributed to her success in reaching and impacting a wide audience.

If you want to look me up and my work growing online communities, here are some of the places you can find me.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

Join my Weekly challenge - take 5 actions Private podcast -https://plus.acast.com/s/community-champions-private-podcast

or download my ’10 steps to Facebook group success’ - https://zoecommunitymanager.co.uk/

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In this solo episode, we dive into the crucial topic of conversations within your online community.

Building a balanced community requires more than just casual chit-chat; it requires purposeful conversations that benefit both sides.

While it's great to have the ability to chat with people, it's essential to make those conversations count by knowing what you want to achieve and how you can help the other person.

In many groups, conversations often lack direction and resolution.

They start off but fail to lead anywhere meaningful.

To overcome this, we need to focus on ideal conversations—ones where individuals express their needs for support, and we can assess if our services align with those needs.

Simply having ideal clients in your group doesn't guarantee sales; instead, it's the quality of conversations that truly matters.

Every conversation, sparked by a post or content, is an opportunity. However, it's crucial to consider what you'll do with those conversations. If you're uncertain about how to make them count, I invite you to join my free group or subscription group, or connect with me on Instagram.

Let's discuss leading conversations in the right direction—an aspect that often goes missing, leading to wasted time and discouragement.

Don't fall into the trap of endless chit-chat without progress.

You need to transition from casual conversation to actionable steps, such as suggesting they explore specific resources, join a waitlist, or consider a personalized session. Take charge of your conversations and lead by example.

If you recognize the need to improve in this area, reach out to me.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Without this crucial element, all the content and chit-chat in your group may not yield the desired results, leaving you feeling frustrated and unrewarded.

Remember, a large group with enthusiastic members won't convert if you haven't engaged in ideal conversations that help individuals discover the value of your services. They won't explicitly express their need for your paid offers; you must initiate and guide these conversations. Even with a group of 10,000 or more members, focusing solely on conversion rates won't be sufficient.

Many people appreciate the personal touch and prefer to engage in conversations before committing to a service.

Finding the best solutions and ensuring your services are the right fit requires effective communication through conversation.

If you're struggling with this aspect, reach out to me or Download my ’10 steps to Facebook group success’ - https://zoecommunitymanager.co.uk/

Let's work together to enhance your conversational skills and achieve better results.

Lastly, don't forget to tune in next week for a fantastic episode featuring Caroline Stawson, an expert in community building and narcissistic behavior. You won't want to miss it!

Make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode.

Have a great week!

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Today I am interviewing Amy Merrywest who runs the Pitch and Shout community, which is different from other free groups as it focuses on PR strategies and connecting with journalists.

The group IRL is: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pitchandshoutcommunity

and my website is: https://pitchandshout.co.uk/

Amy started the group to help her ideal clients learn PR and gain confidence and over time, Amy brought journalists into the group to create a supportive and non-scary environment for women to pitch their ideas.

Her community allows members to test their pitches and receive feedback from others and has evolved rapidly, with members inviting each other and forming lifelong friendships.

The group has a shared ownership feel, and everyone is encouraged to participate and contribute and has a pitching day on Thursdays, and the rest of the week is dedicated to journalists posting requests.

Amy is also establishing a paid membership, where members have more access to her and receive dedicated support.

We've both learned from previous experiences that offering everything for free doesn't lead to action and results from members and we discuss the importance of balancing the level of access and support in free and paid communities.

Offering too much for free can hinder members' progress and long-term growth.

Growth should not be overwhelming and that the focus should be on quality engagement rather than high numbers.

We discuss the importance of clear messaging, differentiation between free and paid communities, fostering engagement, and maintaining a vibrant and supportive environment for members.

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5 suggestions each week to help you find new content ideas
 each week.

Todays episode is about a subject that takes time to grasp!

Sharing more of you.

• Being ourselves and showing our authentic selves online can be challenging.
• The most successful individuals online are unafraid to share their opinions, viewpoints, and true selves.
• Focusing solely on our professional niche may not always be what people want; they want to connect with the person behind the brand.
• Sharing aspects of our lives beyond our work can create more interesting and meaningful connections.
• Connecting on a personal level with others helps create conversations that flow easily and builds stronger relationships.
• Sharing more allows for more connections and helps people remember us.
• Sharing personal stories, even ones with highs and lows, can help others understand our journey and create deeper connections.
• Honesty, both in personal and work-related matters, is valuable in building trust and fostering a supportive community.
• Vulnerability and sharing important moments make a community successful.
• It's not necessary to share everything, but finding a balance between focusing on the business and showing the person behind it is important.
• Building a great community involves giving members a backstage pass, allowing them to feel like VIPs with access to the real and behind-the-scenes aspects.
• The next episode will feature Amy Merrywest discussing PR and her unique approach of combining free and paid services within a community.

https://zoecommunitymanager.co.uk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

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In today's episode Victoria Dioh's talks to us about her Manifestation Kitchen.

https://www.instagram.com/manifestationkitchen/

She encompasses various elements, similar to a recipe, where different ingredients come together to create a unique outcome.

I ask Victoria if she ever considered focusing on just one aspect of her brand, to which Victoria explains her journey.

She initially started with a successful food brand, known for its pepper sauces, but later discovered her healing abilities and the power of manifestation. Instead of leaving the food aspect behind, she decided to integrate it with her healing and manifestation work.

People are drawn to Victoria because of her unique blend of offerings and how she caters to different needs within her community.

Victoria further explains that people come to her for different aspects of healing, and she helps bridge the gaps in their lives.

This diversity and versatility in her approach create a broader appeal and attract a diverse audience.

Listen to the end as iI have a task for you.

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5 suggestions each week to help you find new content ideas


This is my private podcast for those who want to get a weekly private 30 mins audio and 5 tasks you can use/learn from for your community this week.

This is for those of you who want content ideas, prompts, implementation and engagement impact right now.

£12 month, anytime cancellation

Today's episode talks about happiness.

It's important to create a happy environment in a community, even if the topic is difficult or sad.

People need a space where they can share their struggles, but they also want to be around like-minded people who uplift them and have a positive outlook on life.

The topic of the community may be what brings people in, but it's not the reason they stay.

It's essential to strike a balance between discussing the difficulties and also talking about positive things, such as hobbies or happy moments.

Today we explore the idea of whether just having a happy environment can be enough for people who are going through tough times.

Next week I have a great interview with Victoria Dioh so be sure to subscribe.

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Welcome to another episode of the Community Champions podcast.

Today's guest is Gulce Onganer from Video Sales Mastery, who has grown her audience on YouTube, initially as a creative outlet and to stop thinking about starting one.

Not being consistent in the beginning of growing a community makes it take longer to see the rewards, causing people to give up. However, ploughing through this stage is what sets some people apart from the rest.

We chat about -

How to decide on the topics for your YouTube videos.

Creating searchable content that answered specific questions,

the importance of titles, descriptions,

and tags in making videos searchable and discoverable.

If you want to get your online business YouTube ready here is a great resource from Gulce. https://www.videosalesmastery.com/get-your-business-youtube-ready-o/

Gulce aims to create content that engages her audience and fosters dialogue rather than just being a monologue, and she explains how she honed this.

And you can follow her on YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@MakingitinHolland

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

Join my Weekly challenge - take 5 actions Private podcast -https://plus.acast.com/s/community-champions-private-podcast

or download my ’10 steps to Facebook group success’ - https://zoecommunitymanager.co.uk/

On todays epsiode I discuss the importance of listening to groups and communities.

Why is listening such an underrated skill, are we too busy?

Not just superficially listening, really take in what the community is saying and use it to inform the next steps.

Paying attention to the language used by the community can be helpful in developing sales pages or pitches for new products.

Lots of replies to a post can be an indication of interest in a particular topic, which can be useful in validating an offer or in creating a workshop on that topic.

Leave a review letting me know what resonates or if you have any other topics you want me to Cover in future episodes.

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

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Today I am interviewing Sarah Aspinall, the founder of Breaking Ballet, an online ballet-inspired fitness program for women in their 40s and beyond.

Sarah has a strong paid membership, and she is the perfect person to talk about how to connect with a community.

She started it by conducting market research to find out what people want in an online program and realized that short workouts, guidance, and community support were critical.

As a result, she decided to offer a membership that includes more than just workouts to help members stay accountable and engaged, She emphasizes the need for members to support each other and not just focus on their own journeys.

Members share the reasons they love the community, because equal, positive, supportive, safe, and brings people together regardless of their backgrounds.

Sarah also mentions that commenting in a positive tone sets the tone for the group and that she is always looking for new ways to connect with her members which is why she has such a high retention rate.

You can connect with Sarah here - https://www.instagram.com/breakingballet/

https://www.facebook.com/BreakingBallet

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The only thing that can make a community unique is the person or people behind it.

What they do may not be unique, but the way they do it is.

Sharing more of yourself makes all the difference to genuinely building connections and trust with members, but it can also be one of the hardest things to master.

You want to make your community as unique as you are, that is how it gets remembered and people return to it.

A community is a place to share who you are, give people a teaser of your personality, and make them comfortable with you as a person, not just as a service provider.

People can always Google information, but they cannot Google thoughts, feelings, and intuition.

So we need to work with that, sharing more of who you are as the person behind the brand is important in building connections with people in the community.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

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or download my ’10 steps to Facebook group success’

It’s not just the content that matters in a community, but also how you treat people and show up in the community.

REMEMBER, sharing your thoughts, daily routines, discussions and feelings cannot be Googled.

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We are in 2023, and community seems to be a big word for a lot of people. Visibility is also crucial in audience growth. Having a multi-layered visibility strategy is important to ensure that we are seen where our ideal clients are. It is not enough to post for posting's sake, every post should lead somewhere that aligns with your strategy.

Lisa Johnson shares how she started her Facebook group, Fabulous Women That Get Shit Done, while in Cornwall. Initially, she did not know if anyone would follow her, but within a month, she had around 50 to 60 followers who were listening and commenting. She was addicted to it and started to develop her business from there.

Lisa's community has given her many ideas for her business development, and she has learned so much from them. As her business evolves, she listens, uses her intuition, talks more about what excites her, and sees who follows her with each step she takes. Some people stay, and some people move on to other communities, and that is fine.

Lisa Johnson's paid community is where she shares the highs and lows of her business. It is hard to be vulnerable in front of others, especially those who are learning from you. However, Lisa believes that being honest with people about the highs and lows of her business is crucial for building a strong community.

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lisajohnsonstrategist/

She shares things that did not work as planned and things that were real boosters. It is not easy to share the highs and lows, but it is necessary for building a strong community.

It requires vulnerability and transparency, but it helps people to connect with you on a deeper level.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

Join my Weekly challenge - take 5 actions Private podcast -https://plus.acast.com/s/community-champions-private-podcast

or download my ’10 steps to Facebook group success’ - https://zoecommunitymanager.co.uk/

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I'm Zoe McKeown and today's episode focuses on the power of honesty.

Next week, we'll have a special guest, Lisa Johnson, who will share how honesty transformed her community.

The power of honesty lies in building trust with your audience, whether it's a group or an email list.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

Join my Weekly challenge - take 5 actions Private podcast -https://plus.acast.com/s/community-champions-private-podcast

While honesty can be difficult, sharing bits of your personal life and struggles can help your audience understand you better.

You don't have to share everything, but sharing the person behind your brand or business can create a sense of community. When faced with struggles or decisions, it's important to be honest and share your feelings with your audience.

By doing so, you show them that you value their input and create a space where they can offer support and ask questions.

The power of honesty is the answer to many questions about growing an online community.

So be honest, ask your audience for their thoughts, and remember that it's their community too.

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Charlie's Entrepreneurs growth club - https://www.facebook.com/groups/theentrepreneursgrowthclub

Charlie describes her community as one of the best things that has happened to her. She started the business on a whim in 2020 and has always been a business owner.

She started a theatre school but only seven children signed up, but she persevered, and parents asked for weekly classes.

She went all in, held her nerve, and didn't give up.

Charlie's belief and hard work paid off, and she gained traction that led to more sales. She reflects that giving up at the first hurdle could have led to a different outcome.

She has experienced similar resilience growing her online community, the hardest period is 0 to 1000 members, but after 4000, growth became easier.

We discuss the growth of Charlie's Sunday night live show.

Building a community is showing up as your authentic self and sharing parts of your life, Non-salesy content, posts about crisp flavours, and the importance of creating a safe space ensuring that everyone's voice is heard.

Charlie has been running the Entrepreneurs Growth Club for almost two years, which has over 8,000 members. The group focuses on helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses and make genuine connections with other members. Charlie has created a safe place where even those who have not made a sale in a while can feel supported and encouraged.

Positivity is one of the key features of hanging out in Charlie’s world, but she understands the need for balance and encourages members to share their low times and also be willing to share their high times.

We chat about distinguishing between a free group and our paid services. 

Neither of us are shy when talking about our paid services as it emphasizes the need for reciprocity in the community.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

Join my Weekly challenge - take 5 actions Private podcast -https://plus.acast.com/s/community-champions-private-podcast

Here is the link to my ’10 steps to Facebook group success’

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Many people who set up a free community often focus on what they think the people in the community need, and this may result in giving away too much for free.

It is essential to be conscious of what you are doing and to prioritize paid services, because if you don't, how can you expect them to?

Do you feel like you are doing this?

or have you fallen into general chit chat leading nowhere?

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You should feel in control of your group and not the other way around, beholden to the members.

Are you always ready and looking for people that need help in your group and pointing them in the direction of that help?

So I will also lead by example today on the podcast and introduce you to my private (paid for) podcast.

 https://plus.acast.com/s/community-champions-private-podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

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Today, I am interviewing Nikki Gundy, an accountability coach and the founder of a fitness community on Instagram. Nikki describes herself as her community’s cheerleader, conscience, coach, and positivity ambassador.

Nikki’s positivity is what shines through and makes people want to be part of her community. It’s like attending an exercise class, where the instructor's energy and attitude are what keep her coming back.

She built her fitness community on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nikkigundy/ almost eight years ago, at a time when fitness communities were just emerging and when she was struggling after having her second baby.

Nikki says that being in a community with these women changed her life, and it was a partnership of equals where everyone was trying to support each other.

Her community grew because she was authentic and genuine in telling her story of trying to get fit and lose baby weight. Nikki says that her community is the foundation of everything she has, and it's not about the number of likes or followers, but the daily partnership where she and her community members witness each other's lives and find purpose and meaning in supporting each other.

We both agree a community should be a place where people can participate in whatever way they want, without feeling guilty for not engaging in a certain way and discuss the value of having "loyal listeners" in their community who may not necessarily engage in conversation, but still find value in being part of the community.

Nikki mentions that she started out on Instagram without a plan or strategy, and while she did have opportunities for some great brand partnerships, it didn't feel right for her to just interact with her audience in that way.

Instead, she listened to her audience and figured out what they wanted from her, and what was missing in their lives. She used this information to create a business plan that was aligned with her values and the needs of her community.

Nikki emphasises that creating a community of equals, where people feel comfortable sharing their struggles and triumphs, is crucial. She also stresses the importance of being genuine and authentic with community members.

The power of creating a personal touch in online communities, and the value of creating a stable, dependable, and evolving community that feels like home to its members.

We also discuss the concept of giving away free content in a community,

and how Nikki started her Facebook group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/nikkigundyinnermagic

and her advice for those struggling with Facebook posts.

Join my Weekly challenge - take 5 actions Private podcast -https://plus.acast.com/s/community-champions-private-podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

Here is the link to my ’10 steps to Facebook group success’

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If you're looking to create a community, I strongly recommend focusing on conversations, not just content. Engaging with your members and making them feel like they belong is key. I'm not a social media expert but I do believe in organic growth for your community.

So, if you want to subscribe, please leave a review at the end.

Here is the link to my ’10 steps to Facebook group success’

Join my free Facebook group

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As a former secondary school teacher, I approach community management like a classroom, where my goal is to include everyone and get them engaged. The success of your community depends on what you put into it.

Remember, you are the leader and the results you get are a reflection of your efforts.

Every community is different, and your approach will determine the experience your members have.

Your personality and how much you share with your community plays a big role in creating this environment.

You want to avoid a stagnant space and encourage growth and progress. However, you can't be expected to give all the answers constantly and hand everything back completely done.

It's important to establish boundaries and encourage reciprocation within your community to create a thriving space where everyone is engaged and participates.

When starting a community, it's important to be transparent and honest about your intentions and the purpose of the community.

Make sure people know from day one that it's a business and that you have paid services. Be real and share about your life to build trust.

Free communities should be focused on building relationships, not heavily posting content from your courses or training. The approach to a free community and a paid community should be different, and it's important to make a clear distinction between the two.

One of the keys to growing a successful online community is being personal and engaging with members.

People like to talk about themselves and share their experiences, so it's important to give them the opportunity to join in and feel like their opinions and thoughts are valued.

However, it's important to remember that every community is unique and has its own dynamic.

To make your community stand out, be more of yourself, share your everyday life, and try to be as organic as possible. Avoid heavily scheduling and just let things flow naturally.

Community growth should be about establishing connections, not just increasing numbers. Give members a reason to join and stay by offering valuable experiences.

To keep engagement high, maintain a positive energy, enjoy the group, and start conversations.

Let's get started!

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Creating quality content, setting up posting schedules, moderating and even if you're just starting out there is a lot to consider.

Fundamentally I think that the majority of community creators are focusing on the wrong things.

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I’m Zoe Mckeown a community expert specializing in helping individuals create unique places where connections and conversations can flow.

I want to help more of you grow an online business and feel confident attracting your audience, and showing up for them each day.

It can be a surprise what a community actually wants or needs in order to thrive and I've tried and tested most of the options over the last 8 years.

So I’ll be chatting to entrepreneurs, sales strategists, digital marketers, and community builders like Lisa Johnson to inspire us with their stories.

But I’m not just going to interview the people that start these wonderful groups, I want to hear it from both sides.

What makes a community engaged and what makes a happy host.

It will look at the many different types of communities, business, social, networking and also the various platforms you can use.

It's my pleasure to welcome you to the community champions podcast.

I'd love you to subscribe wherever you get your podcast from so that we can keep connecting

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/growinganengagedonlinecommunity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoemckeowncommunity/

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