Learning about communities

Yesterday, I wrote about Arsenal as a fan. Would it shock you if I told you that I'm not a part of what the Arsenal administration considers its community?

And rightfully so.

I am a part of their audience. And as you can see, an audience can have enough dedication to almost confuse you into thinking they're your community.

A lot of the people you refer to as community—are your audience. It is exactly why you probably get some things wrong when you engage with them.

The one major difference between an audience and a community is that your community gives as much as they receive.

Arsenal—they pay for season tickets, preorder original shirts, are part of new unveilings, actively participate in club protests, travel to watch the matches, own an Arsenal account and actively manage it.

The community gives, as much as it receives.

When you want to build a community, what you should look out for is a medium that allows the people you serve to give as much as you give them.

An audience listens, a community discusses.

So, ask yourself, what do you have?

And a piece of advice? You definitely want a community. The world is run on communities, not an audience.

Enjoy Monday.

Ciao.

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