Are you considering transitioning your online community from Facebook to a more dynamic platform? Join us as we explore the exciting world of Discord! In this post, we’ll share valuable insights from a month of running a thriving Discord community for freelancers. Discover the unique features that set Discord apart, learn how to create an engaging environment, and find out why this platform might be the perfect alternative for fostering connections and collaboration. Whether you’re a seasoned Discord user or just curious, this guide will help you navigate your community-building journey with confidence!
Listen to the podcast episode below, watch it on Youtube, or scroll down for the summary!
One Month on With Discord
Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:21 Lesson 1: Less is more 3:34 Choosing your own notifications 4:10 Lesson 2: Working out who everyone is 5:12 A great place for those that don’t want to be on Meta 6:43 Takes more work, but also more rewarding The wonderful people that helped with my Discord community: Kiri: https://www.faelioness.co.uk/ Alexis Bushnell: https://bushnellcommunitysolutions.com/ Marylin Muir: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marylin-muir-231a33175/?originalSubdomain=uk Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmacossey Follow me on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/emmacossey.bsky.social Email: hello@emmacossey.com Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group : https://www.facebook.com/groups/freelancelifestyle/ Want more support?
Prefer to read it? Here are the main points!
Hello, fellow freelancers! I hope you’re enjoying your tea and ready to dive into another exciting episode of the Freelancers Tea Break podcast. This week, I’m reflecting on a big change that’s been brewing in my freelance community – switching from Facebook to Discord. After a decade of running my Freelance Lifestyle Facebook group, I decided to offer Discord as an alternative. And after a month of running it, I’ve learned a lot! If you’re thinking about moving your community elsewhere, Discord might just be the perfect place for you too.
Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways I’ve learned so far:
1. Less Is More (At Least at First!)
When I first set up the Discord community, I got excited about all the bells and whistles. From various channels to fun bots, it seemed like a dream! But here’s the thing – it can get overwhelming. My biggest lesson? Keep it simple. I started with fewer channels to help members navigate the space without feeling lost. Over time, I added forum-style channels for hobbies, tech tips, and more, but keeping things minimal at the start has been key.
2. Get to Know Your Fellow Freelancers
On Facebook, we all knew each other, whether from profile pictures or Facebook names. But on Discord, people can choose their own usernames and profiles aren’t always filled in. This makes it harder to know who’s who, especially for those who join from the Facebook group. A simple introduction post is now crucial to make sure everyone feels recognised and included.
3. A Safe Space for All
One of the most heartwarming aspects of moving to Discord is that it’s brought back people who left Facebook entirely. Many members have expressed how much they appreciate the freedom of joining a community without the distractions and privacy concerns that come with Facebook. Discord has really created a safe and welcoming space for everyone, especially those from marginalised communities.
4. Conversations Can Be Anything – Not Just Work!
One thing that’s blown me away is the range of topics people are discussing in the Discord community. While the Facebook group was largely about freelance business questions, Discord feels more like a gathering of friends sharing all sorts of interests – from books and board games to tech tips and personal challenges. It’s a beautiful thing to see members connecting not just over work, but through their hobbies and interests too.
5. It’s a Bit More Work, But Worth It
Unlike Facebook, Discord requires a little more effort to keep the conversation flowing. It’s not as easy to just pop into the feed and find something interesting. But when discussions do get going, they’re full of life and engagement. Plus, it’s amazing to see how members are helping each other out – whether it’s sharing resources or giving shoutouts for a job well done. The community is growing and thriving, and I couldn’t be happier with how it’s turned out.
Final Thoughts
I didn’t expect the Discord community to grow as quickly as the Facebook group, and that’s totally okay. The goal has always been to create a safe, supportive space where freelancers can ask questions, share advice, and feel part of something bigger. I truly believe Discord is the right platform for my community right now, especially because it’s free (no surprise there, right?)!
If you’re looking for a new space to build or join a community, I’d highly recommend giving Discord a try. It’s different from Facebook, but in a lot of ways, that’s what makes it so special.
Ready to Join the Discord Community? Curious about what’s happening on Discord? You can join my Freelance Lifestyle server today! Whether you want to lurk or get involved, everyone is welcome. Click here to join, and let’s chat about all things freelance!
Until next time, keep enjoying your freelance journey, and don’t forget to take those tea breaks!
I’d love to hear your thoughts on Discord or any questions you might have about the platform. Join the conversation by leaving a comment or sending me a message. If you haven’t joined yet, now’s the perfect time!
Remember, the Freelance Lifestyle community is waiting for you. ☕
The wonderful people that helped with my Discord community:
Kiri: https://www.faelioness.co.uk/
Alexis Bushnell: https://bushnellcommunitysolutions.com/
Marylin Muir: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marylin-muir-231a33175/?originalSubdomain=uk
Follow me on Instagram
Follow me on Bluesky
Email: hello@emmacossey.com
Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group
Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership.
Join the Freelance Lifestyle Discord Community: https://discord.gg/RKYkReS5Cz
