Why It’s Time to Say Goodbye to Facebook & Move Your Community.
A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide to Successfully Migrating Your Community from Facebook to a New Home
Facebook (and Slack or Discord) groups may seem like an easy and familiar way to build a community, but let’s be real - it’s not always the safest or most effective choice. With Facebook's history of data breaches, vulnerability to hacking, and a lack of control over your members’ data, your community’s privacy and security are constantly at risk. Add to that the distractions, blackouts, and frustratingly unpredictable algorithms, and it becomes clear: Facebook isn’t designed with your community’s needs in mind.
Enter a purpose-built community app the smarter, safer, and more efficient solution for community builders. What do I mean by purpose-built community app - I am talking about Circle, Heartbeat, Mighty Networks and Hivebrite. Not only do they offer a secure platform where your members’ information is protected, but it also saves you time and money with built-in automation and marketing features. From streamlining onboarding processes to crafting engaging campaigns, these platforms help you focus on what truly matters, connecting with your members and growing your community.
However, transitioning from Facebook to a new space isn’t a one-click solution. Migrating your community means leaving behind Facebook’s ecosystem-and no, you can’t just “export” your group data or transfer all your member information. It takes careful planning, strategy, and finesse to ensure your community makes the leap without losing its momentum.
By moving to an app, you’re choosing a platform built for meaningful connections and long-term growth, free from the risks and limitations of Facebook. It’s time to create a space where your members feel valued, safe, and empowered without the hassle of dodging algorithms or worrying about data privacy. The journey may require effort, but with the right approach, it’s a game-changer for your community’s future. Let’s dive into how to make this transition a success!
Before we start going into the process of migrating your community I have one question.
Have you collected your members’ email addresses in a mailing list?
If the answer is no, This is your queue to start collecting them now before you get started on what we are about to dive into below.
If yes, let’s dive in. Here is your checklist for migrating your community successfully.
A 10 Step Guide to Migrating Your Community from Facebook.
1️⃣ Evaluate Your Community’s Needs
Understand the Pain Points: Identify what isn’t working on Facebook (e.g., algorithm challenges, distractions, lack of data control, or security risks).
Choose an App for Its Features: Highlight the benefits the app has to offer that are best suited to your community, like targeted content delivery, monetisation options, streamlined community engagement, and a distraction-free environment.
2️⃣ Plan the Migration Strategically
Set Clear Goals: Define what success looks like for your migration (e.g., member retention, improved engagement, enhanced monetization).
Research and Prepare: Familiarise yourself with the app’s capabilities, tools, and customisation options to align with your community’s unique needs.
3️⃣ Design and Set up the New Community
Create Custom Channels: Organise topics into well-structured channels that cater to your members’ interests.
Set Up Moderation Tools: Implement features like moderation workflows and community guidelines to ensure a safe and positive environment.
Set-up your onboarding and welcome section: Create a welcoming experience that introduces new members to the platform, provides an easy way to get started, and ensures they feel supported from day one.
4️⃣ Curate and Transfer Content
Migrate Key Resources: Bring over essential content, such as popular discussions, guides, and resources from Facebook.
Create a content and engagement plan: Develop a strategy for regular activities, posts, events, and discussions to keep your community engaged and connected.
5️⃣ Communicate with Your Community
Announce the Move Early: Share your decision to migrate and explain the reasons for the switch in posts, emails, and live Q&A sessions. Focus on the benefits for members, like improved experiences and added features.
Create Buzz with a Countdown: Build excitement by posting daily updates about the transition on all channels, including sneak peeks of your new community.
Provide Sneak Peeks and Walkthroughs: Organize online events showcasing the app’s features and how members will benefit. Give them a glimpse of what to expect in the new platform.
Incorporate Beta Testing: Invite a small group of members to test the new community. Use their feedback to refine the experience before the full migration.
6️⃣ Develop an Email Strategy
Craft Engaging Emails: Send a series of emails with a friendly tone and visuals to explain the benefits of the new app, just like you brainstormed in the first stages of the migration process.
Include Clear Instructions: Provide step-by-step guidance for joining, including how-to guides, links, and an FAQ section.
7️⃣ Launch with A Party
Roll Out the Red Carpet: Welcome members with personalised messages, a live virtual event, or an onboarding walkthrough to help them navigate the new space.
Host an Exclusive Event: Organize a launch celebration, such as a live session, panel discussion, or giveaway, to make the transition exciting and memorable.
8️⃣ Promote the Migration
Leverage Social Media: Share testimonials, sneak peeks, and success stories about the migration on all platforms to attract attention.
Encourage Word of Mouth: Ask your most engaged members to share their excitement and invite peers to join the new community.
9️⃣ Support Members During the Transition
Offer Hands-On Help: Provide tutorials, live Q&A sessions, and 1:1 support to ensure a seamless onboarding experience.
Monitor Feedback: Actively gather feedback from members to make adjustments and optimize the platform for their needs.
1️⃣0️⃣ Track and Celebrate Success
Analyse Metrics: Use Circle’s analytics to monitor engagement, member activity, and content performance.
Celebrate Milestones: Share community achievements and milestones to maintain momentum and encourage continued participation.
Bonus: Monetise and Scale
Introduce Membership Plans: Offer tiered membership options to provide added value and create a revenue stream.
Expand Offerings: Build courses, workshops, or exclusive events to meet your community’s evolving interests and needs.
By following this guide for a more strategic, smooth, and successful migration, you can ensure your community’s migration from Facebook to a safer happier home.
Need support with Your Migration?
Moving your community from Facebook to a new home can feel overwhelming, but Sense & Forum is here to make it seamless. We specialise in:
🎯 Custom Migration Strategies: Tailored plans to suit your unique community and ensure a smooth transition to a safer, more inclusive space.
⚙️ Simple Setup: Step-by-step guidance to help you create a secure and welcoming environment for your members.
💡 Expert Guidance: Save time and money with our hands-on support and expert insights, ensuring your community thrives in its new home.
📈 Ongoing Success: Post-launch support and strategies to maintain growth, engagement, and safety within your community.
📩 Get Started Today: Book a call or email us to learn how we can help you build a better, safer, and more inclusive community.