Getting Started
Let’s start by initiating a few interesting discussions in your Forum. The best discussions ask a question. They prompt people to respond. If you’re not sure what to write, search Twitter to see what people are talking about in your topic. Ask a few questions based upon this.
Need to add a Forum to your network? Learn how here.
Here are a few conversation starters that might help. Adapt these as you see fit.
- How did you first become interested in (topic)?
- What are your predictions for (topic) this year?
- What would you tell a newcomer just getting started in (topic)?
- What is your biggest challenge?
If you’re still stuck, think about a big problem/challenge you have within the topic. Ask how you might resolve it. The more specific you are, the more likely you will get a response.
People
Once you’ve posted a discussion or two, invite your first members. The best people to invite are those you already know. Directly invite people your friends from Facebook, Twitter, e-mail, or other channels. You can do this automatically by going to your Member Management area, then clicking “Invite More People.”
If you don’t have any existing contacts (or aren’t keen on inviting them), then look at the people talking about the topic on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Tumblr or any relevant social site. Each of these have search functions that will let you find people that might like to join your community.
Be careful not to spam. It’s far better to participate in discussions first and then invite people rather than inviting them before participating.
