The internet has revolutionized the way we communicate, and online communities have become an integral part of our social lives. In fact, a UCLA neuroscientist even wrote a book explaining why social connection is as important as food and shelter. Can you believe that? Community and the sense of belonging and interacting with others is JUST AS IMPORTANT as food and shelter.

It all really just comes down to the fact that we all want to belong and feel like we belong. 

You might be wondering how this can apply to your business, because a business selling a product is far from a true interactive community, right? Wrong. 

The other day I was scrolling TikTok in bed (as I do most nights…) and I saw a video where a user was explaining a very successful marketing strategy for a leading home kitchen supply company. Yep, the company sells pots and pans—simple items you can get at any local store. So what has made them so successful? You guessed it, an online community.

This company is not selling you a product directly to your face (at least not in a way that you are aware of). They are creating a community of like-minded individuals sharing valuable information that is educational and engaging. They are creating a community of foodies and coming together to share delicious recipes that make you keep coming back for more. And unbeknown to you, you don’t even realize the marketing going on within the videos and posts and valuable content. What tools are they using in the kitchen as you’re watching a video on how to cook a one-pot meal? Their product. They are using the pots and pans.

Providing a sense of community is a valuable asset to your business because it gives your customer the feeling of trust and belonging. No one likes to be marketed to 24/7 and a community makes you feel like your joining together for the common good. And do you know where they will likely shop when they are in need of pots and pans? We can make a good guess!

Diving Deeper — 5 Reasons Why Paid Online Communities are the Future

While most online communities are free to join, there is a growing trend towards paid online communities. These are communities that require a membership fee to access their content and services.

Let’s explore the reasons why we believe paid online communities are the future.

1. Higher Quality Content and Services

Paid online communities provide a higher quality of content and services compared to free communities. Members are willing to pay for the expertise and value that the community provides. This creates a sense of commitment and dedication among members, which translates into higher quality content and services. Paid communities also have the resources to invest in tools and technologies that enhance the user experience.

2. More Meaningful Connections

Paid online communities attract members who are serious about their interests and hobbies. This creates a more engaged and committed community that is motivated to share their knowledge and experiences. Members of paid communities feel a sense of ownership and pride in their community, which fosters more meaningful connections and relationships.

3. Exclusive Access to Experts and Influencers

Paid online communities often provide access to experts and influencers in a particular field. Members can interact directly with these individuals and get personalized advice and guidance. This is a huge benefit for members who are looking to learn and grow in their field of interest.

4. Monetization Opportunities

Paid online communities provide monetization opportunities for community owners and members. Community owners can earn revenue through membership fees, sponsorships, and advertising. Members can also monetize their expertise by offering paid services or products to other members.

5. Data Privacy and Security

Paid online communities have better data privacy and security measures in place compared to free communities. Members are required to provide personal information and payment details, which means paid communities have a greater responsibility to protect their members’ data. This creates a more secure and trustworthy environment for members to share their thoughts and ideas.

How to Achieve an Online Community for Your Business

So now that you’ve heard the reasons why we think paid communities are the future, you may be asking how you can apply this concept to your own business?

Circle is an all-in-one community platform for creators & brands that brings together engaging courses, discussions, members, live streams, chat, events and memberships – all in one place, all under your own brand.

“In the last edition we launched Circle, a next-generation online discussion forum. It has had a profound impact on the community-building aspect of the course. It is far more modern, user-friendly, interactive, and multi-faceted than any other platform out there, and we are making it the home of our student community.” – Forte Labs

Create. With Circle, you can combine the exciting, interactive nature of a community with your content — all in one seamless experience.

• Organized discussions
• Private spaces
• Rich posts
• Your own brand
• Content & resources
• Member directory

Engage. With Circle you get powerful engagement features so that you can empower your members to build that vision with you.

• Group chat rooms
• Live streams
• Events
• Private Messaging
• Event Spaces
• Weekly digests

Monetize. Whether you’re offering a membership, one-time access to content, providing free trials or monthly recurring subscriptions — Circle has you covered.

• Paid memberships
• Recurring subscriptions
• Gate access
• Offer upsells
• Free trials
• Coupons & discounts

With Circle you can also create automated workflows which saves time, energy and money on repetitive tasks, personalizes the interactions you have with your community (which in turn makes the user feel more connected) and also makes your community content as fun and interactive as possible!

“You have a vision for your community experience. Circle provides you with the building blocks to bring your vision to life — fast and without the headaches!”

Click here to sign up for a free 14-day trial (It takes just 30 seconds to set up your community — and there’s no card required.)

They also always offer a 30-day, 100% money back guarantee. If for any reason, you decide that Circle isn’t the right fit for your community, just let them know! They will get you a full refund, no questions asked.

If you decide you like Circle and need help setting up your account and building your new community, courses and/or automated workflows, that’s what I’m here for! Don’t hesitate to reach out.

This post contains affiliate links. That means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of these links.