Ep 14: 3 Reasons Why Community Managers Are Essential to Your Online Business

May 24

The Importance of a Community Manager in Your Online Business

In the world of online businesses, there are many roles that contribute to success. However, one role stands out as the most important, especially for course creators, membership site owners, and those with group programs. That role is the community manager. The community manager has the keys to everything you do and holds immense power and responsibility within your organization. I’ve got A Community Manager Best Practice Guide to assist you whether you are looking to hire a community manager or elevate your current community support, this guide is for you.

3 Reasons Why A Community Manager is Crucial In Your Online Business

1. Representation

Your community manager serves as the face and voice of your business. They interact with your customers, both before and after they make a purchase. Whether it's through discussions, forums, or group calls, the community manager engages directly with your community members, representing your brand at every touchpoint. How they handle conflict, celebrate achievements, and shape the culture of your community reflects on you and your business. Therefore, it is vital to recognize that the community manager is your representative, entrusted with upholding your brand values and creating a positive environment.

2. Relationships

Building strong relationships is essential in business, and your community manager plays a crucial role in managing customer relationships. Imagine you have cultivated relationships with each individual in your community. Entrusting your community manager with maintaining and nurturing these relationships becomes a significant responsibility. Your community manager should have a deep understanding of each member's journey, celebrating their successes, reactivating those who have fallen off track, and offering support when needed. By considering your community manager as a relationship manager, you acknowledge the value of their role in fostering connections and building loyalty among your community members.

3. Retention

Retention directly affects your revenue, making it a critical aspect of your business. which has a direct connection to your revenue. Your community manager is the one that can influence retention more than most other people inside of your business. So what does this mean? Why should, why should you care that this is the most important role in your business?

I find is a lot of people take hiring in this role pretty lightly. They hire their cousin, their friend, they hire somebody from within the community because they're like a really great cheerleader. That does not mean they make a good community manager and are worthy of that role and position and the weight that it carries. So when you're thinking about hiring a community manager, I really want you to be intentional about who you hire because you understand the value of that role. You understand the risk that having somebody in that role, what that risk is if they don't do a good job in that role. And that also means that you really need to be invested in training them and supporting them. . They play a pivotal role in influencing how long your customers stay engaged and involved in your programs. A skilled community manager understands the needs and desires of your community, creating an environment that encourages long-term commitment. By focusing on retention, your community manager contributes to the growth and sustainability of your business.

Hiring Your Community Manager

Understanding the significance of the community manager role in your online business is essential when it comes to making hiring decisions. Avoid treating this role lightly by simply hiring friends or acquaintances without considering their qualifications. Instead, be intentional about selecting a community manager who possesses the necessary skills and qualities to represent your brand effectively. Also, invest in their training and ongoing support to ensure they continuously grow as leaders within your community. As your business and community expand, your community manager will face greater responsibilities and challenges. Equipping them to handle these situations will enable them to thrive and achieve remarkable results.

The Key To Your Online Business’s Success

Your community manager holds the key to your online business's success. They serve as your representative, manage relationships, and directly impact retention rates and revenue. By recognizing the importance of the community manager role, investing in their training, and providing ongoing support, you can unlock the full potential of your online business and foster a thriving community. Remember, a well-hired, well- trained, and well-supported community manager is the cornerstone of your success. Don’t forget to grab your Community Manager Best Practices Guide!