Almost anyone can create an online community today and there are so many different platforms to choose from. However, making your online community stand out is a different story. There's probably a lot of competition in your niche, so you have to differentiate yourself if you want to capture your audience's attention. Here's how:

Define your purpose

You have to know your why. Why does your community exist in the first place? Why should they choose yours? What unique value do you offer that others don't? If you can answer these questions in depth, you'll have a competitive advantage over others.

Once you've figured out your why, it can become the foundation of your branding and marketing. A strong purpose will set you apart from your competitors, creating a sense of individuality and not another generic community.

Create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

Have a think about what it would be like to join your server as a member. Straight out the gate you'd want to feel welcomed and encouraged to join in on discussions. Try to make this happen in your community. You could have an 'introduce yourself' channel, where new members are encouraged to introduce themselves. This will also make them more likely to start or join in a discussion in other areas of the community.

Develop Engaging and Unique content - especially if you run a course

If you're selling a course or other educational program, the community is structured around what you're selling so you've got to make sure the content you're putting out is engaging and unique. If you have, great, it will make some interesting discussions for your members.

Great content sparks great conversations. Great conversations in turn lead to deeper connections between members. They will associate your community as a source of value, which can't be replicated anywhere else.

Encourage genuine connections among your members

This is important if you are teaching something to your community. They should ask questions and help each other out when it comes to learning from you. Most communities market themselves as a great place to network in, so you have to ensure that your community is a place that members can do that.

Develop consistent branding and visuals

You need to have a community that looks professional and pleasing to the eye. If you have too many channels, it looks messy and spreads discussions out in too many places. Consider using consistent branding across all aspects of your community.

Show you care by being present

Nothing boosts the community morale like the creator joining in on discussions. A community is one of the best places to build meaningful connections with your audience and there's so many benefits in doing so. You'll be missing out if you don't, so make sure you're seen regularly participating in the community.

Adapt and evolve

To keep your community lively, adapt to the feedback you receive from your members and always try to publish as much quality content as you can. This will keep existing members happy and you can market the new content to new members.

Engaging and unique content, even if you don't run a course will improve retention rates and give members a reason to stay active. Fresh content also provides a great tool for marketing to new members.

Conclusion

To make your community stand out today in 2024, you have to set yourself apart from others while continuously putting time and attention into it. No matter which platform you host it on, or what your community is about, these 7 steps will help you stand out.

By focusing on creating unique value, fostering genuine connections, and staying adaptable, you can create a community that attracts the right people, keeps them engaged, and leaves a lasting impression.