From Austria to Zanzibar City, whilst a Global Marketing Manager at Oracle, I gathered many invaluable strategies that could be adopted by smaller SaaS companies to help them thrive. This blog is the first in a series covering business growth: building a robust community and amplifying your message. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let’s talk about why community matters and how to supercharge yours.
1. Your Community Starts Within
You know that feeling when you’re surrounded by a team that shares your vision and passion? It’s electric. That’s why fostering a sense of community within your own company is the first step to success. From the Product Directors to the Backend Developers to the Board of Directors, your staff are not just employees; they’re the backbone of your community.
From the Oracle F1 partnership to Oracle Team USA Match Racing, there is no I in team.
Let them be vocal about your business online. Authenticity is key. When your team members share their experiences and insights, they humanize your brand. And guess what? Your employees are often your first community members. Once you’ve got that internal fire burning bright, it’s time to turn outward.
2. The Power of Nurturing
Once you’ve built your community, it’s time to nurture it. Think of your online community as a garden—you need to tend to it regularly to keep it flourishing. But nurturing isn’t just about posting updates; it’s about meaningful connections.
Choose the right platforms and craft the right message. Whether it’s through social media, forums, or dedicated groups, be present where your community hangs out. Listen, engage, and add value. That’s how you turn casual connections into loyal advocates.
3. Give A lot And Often
Gone are the days of branded pens at trade shows. Today’s community craves more meaningful interactions. If your community believes in your products and services, reciprocate that trust. Give generously and frequently.
User groups should be a pillar in your customer success
Offer ungated access to valuable resources, host online user groups, and organize events. Embrace feedback, both the good and the bad. There’s immense power in a room full of your community members sharing their thoughts and experiences.
4. If You Build It, They Will Come
Hosting events—big or small—is the secret sauce of community engagement. From intimate user groups to flagship annual conferences, events create spaces for connection, knowledge exchange, and feedback.
You don’t fill rooms like this without trust in your community
Small events allow for personalized interactions, while large-scale gatherings showcase your company’s vision and innovations. Consistent engagement breeds loyalty and advocacy within your community.
5. Now Amplify Your Message
With a thriving community by your side, it’s time to amplify your message. Remember the age-old saying, “People buy from people they trust”? That’s the power of community. When you’ve built trust and rapport, your message resonates louder and farther.
Now Amplify Your Message
So, there you have it—building your community and amplifying your message go hand in hand. It’s about fostering genuine connections, nurturing relationships, and sharing your story authentically. Embrace the journey, and watch your community—and your business—soar.
Here’s to building something extraordinary together! ????
