10 Things I’ve Learnt From Running a Facebook Community for a Decade

by | Oct 10, 2024 | The Freelancer's Teabreak Podcast

Discover the 10 invaluable lessons I’ve learned from running a successful Facebook group for freelancers. From setting clear rules to collaborating with other groups, these insights will help you create a thriving online community. Stay tuned for the full blog post!

Listen to the podcast episode below, watch it on Youtube, or scroll down for the summary!


10 Things I’ve Learnt From Running a Facebook Community for a Decade

Discover the 10 invaluable lessons I’ve learned from running a successful Facebook group for freelancers. From setting clear rules to collaborating with other groups, these insights will help you create a thriving online community. Stay tuned for the full episode!

Prefer to read it? Here are the main points!

Running a successful Facebook group can be a valuable asset for freelancers. Not only does it provide a supportive community, but it also offers opportunities for networking, collaboration, and business growth. In this blog post, we will explore the 10 key lessons learned from running a Facebook group for freelancers, based on the insights shared by a seasoned group administrator.

1. Establish Clear Rules: Setting clear rules for your Facebook group is essential to ensure a positive and respectful environment. Clearly define what is acceptable and what is not, including guidelines for self-promotion and competition within the group.

2. Utilise Tech Tools: Using tools like Group Leads can streamline the process of managing member requests and growing your mailing list. Automating tasks such as sending welcome messages and adding members to your mailing list can save you time and effort.

3. Give to Receive: The most engaged and successful members of a Facebook group are often those who actively contribute and support others. By celebrating wins, offering feedback, and engaging authentically, you can build strong connections and create a thriving community.

4. Overcome Selling Insecurities: It is natural to feel hesitant about promoting your own products or services within your group. However, if done in a genuine and helpful manner, sharing relevant offerings can benefit both you and your members. Focus on creating value and addressing the needs of your community.

5. Consider Facebook Group Messenger Chats: While Facebook Group Messenger Chats can be beneficial for smaller groups, they may not be as effective for larger communities. Assess the needs and dynamics of your group before implementing this feature.

6. Set Boundaries: As the group administrator, you have the right to establish boundaries to ensure a safe and supportive environment. Removing individuals or conversations that compromise the group’s integrity is crucial for maintaining a positive atmosphere.

7. Collaborate with Other Groups: Building relationships with other group owners can lead to valuable collaborations and mutual support. Explore opportunities to collaborate, such as guest slots or joint initiatives, to expand your reach and provide additional value to your members.

8. Grow Your Mailing List: Running a Facebook group can be an effective strategy for growing your mailing list. By including an option for members to join your list when they join the group, you can increase engagement and expand your reach.

9. Explore Alternative Community Platforms: While Facebook is a popular choice for hosting groups, it is worth considering other community platforms that may better suit your needs. Platforms like Circle, Heartbeat, Discord, and Slack offer different features and functionalities.

10. Embrace the Freelance Community: Running a Facebook group for freelancers can be a rewarding experience. By fostering a culture of kindness, vulnerability, and support, you can create a space where freelancers can connect, learn, and thrive.

If you are a freelancer looking for a supportive community, consider joining The Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group. Connect with like-minded individuals, share your goals, celebrate wins, and gain valuable insights to grow your freelance business. Join us today and experience the power of a thriving freelance community.

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All about Emma Cossey

I’m a long-term freelancer, mum and all round digital geek, and I’m happy to welcome you to The Freelance Lifestyle. I launched this blog in 2011, to provide freelancers with down-to-earth support, and practical advice. I wanted it to be a kind, supportive place to get tips and advice on living a great freelance life. I’ve been a pro blogger, a social media consultant, a copywriter, a teacher… but my passion is helping people just like you take the next step. So whether you want to pick up tips from the blog, listen in to the podcast, come join the Facebook group or get some more focused 1-2-1 support with my coaching, there’s something here for you.

You can find out more about Everything I do here

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