Diversity in Community Building: A #CMWorld Chat with Ben Rome

Diversity refers to the variety of differences between people in a community. It can encompass race, gender, age, religion, and more. Communities with diverse cultural backgrounds bring unique experiences to the table. Demonstrating your community is invested in fostering a safe, inclusive environment can make your group more attractive to potential members and help retain the ones you have.

On a recent #CMWorld Twitter chat, we discussed the important topic of diversity and community building with AIHA Marketing Manager Ben Rome. The following provides highlights of the chat. Our community provided numerous insights into the tremendous value diverse communities have. To learn more, be sure to check out our Storify recap.

Foster open conversations

Successful communities recognize the need for honest discussions and are ready and willing to spend resources managing diversity within it.

A1: Simply having the conversation helps. People appreciate when other views are welcomed. Just listen. #CMWorld

— Mike Myers ? (@mikemyers614) August 22, 2017

A1. Utilize stories from diverse individuals – they will resonate with a person from the same cultural background! #cmworld ?????

— Ashley E. Stein (@AshleyElaineS) August 22, 2017

A1: Embracing togetherness in small groups within a firm or have rotating partners for different projects inspires diversity. #cmworld pic.twitter.com/Hs73oxBnoM

— Lydia (@litTMT) August 22, 2017

Implement a plan

Members are expected to show respect and courtesy within a community. However, attitudes towards diversity originate at the top and filter downward. Leaders must be committed to incorporate diversity policies, like a Code of Conduct, into every aspect of the community’s function and purpose.

A4: I think having clear guidelines regarding behavior can be helpful for communities. It keeps everything friendly and safe. #CMWorld

— Express Writers (@ExpWriters) August 22, 2017

A4a Enforceable CoC is what you need to make potential victims of harassment feel confident/safe in joining the community. #CMWorld

— Ben H. Rome (@bhrome) August 22, 2017

A4: More than a Code of Conduct, you need a company culture that exemplifies the right behavior from the top down. #CMWorld https://t.co/w0F5yFav9o

— Jeremy Bednarski (@JeremyBednarski) August 22, 2017

With what brands have you experienced an open community environment? Let us know in the comments below.

Ben joins an all-star panel at Content Marketing World discussing the role of community in content marketing. Register now to attend his session. Use code SM100 at checkout to save an extra $100