So you’ve decided to take the plunge and create a Discord server (maybe you read our article on How A Brand Can Use Discord).
But without the proper strategies, you might just be staring at an empty server. Discord is all about community, but community doesn’t just appear out of thin air; you have to build it.
Here are five some in-depth strategies and tactics on how to engage your Discord members so they’re around for the long haul.
Step 1: Create Discord Channels
The best Discord servers curate an experience for their members. So first, set up a Welcome channel that explains the rules of the server and any other pertinent info – think of it like a FAQ page to clear up any questions that might arise. Second, create any separate static channels where chat is disabled, using these only to release Rules, Announcements or Calendar. And lastly, depending on what your brand entails, set up channels that appeal to your unique audience (Trivia, Games, Memes, Livewatches, etc.) that serve their own purpose and focus on one topic.
Step 2: Give Member Perks
Aside from giving users a space for discussion and providing announcements, a Discord server gives brands a unique opportunity to offer exclusive benefits to their consumers/fandoms. Being a part of a Discord server is akin to being a part of a fan club – so create perks that will keep membership up. Whether it’s customized emojis, exclusive content, or discounts on your products, perks you can’t find anywhere else are a great way to ensure server success.
Step 3: Reward Participation
High participation members are an essential asset to any Discord server. You can reward their contributions by assigning them roles and giving them permissions other members don’t have. Their username will appear with a different color and it prioritizes their names on the member list, ultimately highlighting them above other members. That being said, don’t give the boot to members who don’t participate as much.
But absolutely do ban people who spam or constantly break the rules.
Step 4: Consistency Is Key
If getting members in the server is half the battle, the other half is remaining consistent with posts and activities. On whichever cadence makes the most sense for your team, make sure you plan weekly or monthly activities to keep your members coming back for more. The activities could include monthly livewatches, weekly quizzes or games. And don’t be afraid to drop a new channel every once in awhile to grow the server and keep it fresh.
Step 5: Make Your Launch Loud
And lastly, don’t half-ass the launch; getting new members on your server when it opens is half the battle. Successful servers have offered special prizes to the first 500 members who enter – like discounts on their product or customized roles. Advertise your new Discord server on your brand’s other social channels with a QR code or link for ease. The first day it opens, make it an event.
While building your Discord community requires a fair amount of work upfront, the effort pays off in dividends through time.
