Audience or Community
In this blog I aim to try and distinguish the difference between an audience and a community.
I think this is one of those things where we throw both words around and maybe not consider the difference.
So lets start of by defining each one as best I can.
An audience is when your message is willingly being received. You have demonstrated that you have something to say that is of interest and they are open to hear it when you speak. In the world of social media that does not mean they always do hear it but the willingness to allow you to enter their digital space and talk is there.
An audience can be just 1 person or it can be many thousands or even more. But be aware an audience will only stick around for as long as you are adding value in one form or another. They are fickle and will join you and leave you in a heartbeat, although it is down to you to keep adding value and keep them interested in what you have to say or offer.
A community is very different. In a community it is all about the input and values of the group not just one individual. Now there maybe a leader of a community who leads discussion and direction. Everybody has an opportunity to contribute and is encouraged too. Amazing ideas and discussion can be born out of a community.
There are some different types of people in a community, some are active and engage in discussion, others are passive and just consume the value from the group without really adding much value.
The best communities are those that are monitored and managed. Where members are encouraged to participate.
A community is about all of the people in the group brought together for a cause,belief, idea or celebration.
So I think at this point we can all see the difference in the two types and understand that in fact most businesses should be involved in both, creating an audience and being part or leading a community.
There are some real positives to both and one is not any better than the other. An audience is great and each member should be treated as if they are paying you. Community's are where magic happens and is all about being part of something bigger and willing to be challenged and learn but more than anything be active.
You can build you audience around your content, such as your blog or podcast and on social media.
You can parcipate in many many communities both online and offline. For online start with places like Facebook Groups and LinkedIn and Google + too?
So there we have it the difference between an audience and a community, i hope this was useful?
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Author- Speaker - Consultant. Passionate about all things digital.