Community management is moving from a growth to a mature industry
Community management has grown in importance for businesses across a range of industries. With the rise of social media and online communication, communities have become more important than ever for brands to connect with their customers and build loyal followings. However, as the industry has matured, we are seeing a shift towards more specialized roles and a greater emphasis on the importance of community operations.
According to recent research, 22% of companies now have a dedicated community department, up from 15% the previous year. This is a significant increase and highlights the growing importance of community management as a strategic function within organizations. As more and more businesses recognize the value of communities in driving engagement, loyalty, and advocacy, it is becoming increasingly necessary to have dedicated resources focused on managing and nurturing those communities.
One key trend in the industry is the increasing specialization of community roles. As companies invest more in their communities, they are also recognizing the need for specialized skills and expertise. According to the same research, 35% of community teams now have at least one person focused full-time on Community Operations. This includes roles such as community managers, moderators, and engagement specialists, who are responsible for building and nurturing relationships with community members, creating and implementing engagement strategies, and ensuring that the community operates smoothly.
The shift towards more specialized community roles is important because it allows businesses to take a more strategic approach to community management. By investing in dedicated resources with specific skill sets and expertise, companies can create more targeted and effective community strategies. For example, a community manager might be responsible for building relationships with key influencers, while a moderator might focus on creating a safe and supportive environment for members to interact.
As community management continues to mature, we can expect to see more companies investing in specialized roles and functions. This is a positive development for the industry as a whole, as it highlights the growing recognition of the importance of communities in driving business success. By dedicating resources to community management, businesses can build strong, engaged communities that can help drive customer acquisition, retention, and advocacy. As a result, we can expect to see community management become an increasingly important strategic function for businesses across a range of industries.
