This is part three of a three-part series on building sticky communities. If you haven't yet, catch up with parts one and two.
Welcoming attendees through the doors of your event is just the beginning of their journey to belonging. The secret of community building lies in transforming these individuals into engaged, connected members—a process underpinned by what we at More Human call "horizontal glue." It's the rich tapestry of relationships and shared experiences that not only keeps people coming back but also cements their sense of belonging and mutual support.
The Heartbeat of Community Engagement:
Horizontal glue is about the "who" at your events—the conversations, the shared experiences, the collective learning and growing. It's in these moments that attendees transition from being spectators to active participants in the community. This transition is critical in combating the pervasive sense of isolation many experience today, aligning perfectly with More Human’s mission to foster deeper, more meaningful connections.
Strategies for Strengthening Horizontal Glue:
Creating an environment conducive to the development of horizontal glue involves planning and an understanding of human dynamics:
Designing for Interaction: Structure your events to facilitate interaction among attendees. This could mean incorporating networking sessions, group activities, or shared meals. Each of these moments is an opportunity for horizontal glue to develop, binding your community tighter. For example, if you are arranging a group trip somewhere, can you arrange a chance for people to meet for a drink beforehand? How can we maximise other opportunities for connection?
Embracing Diverse Ways to Participate: Recognise and cater to the spectrum of preferences within your group. From those who shine in the spotlight to others who find value in observation, ensuring everyone can engage in a way that feels comfortable to them is key to inclusive community building. Could those more socially confident be given a welcoming role to welcome new members for example?
Cultivating a Sense of Belonging: Use storytelling, celebrate achievements, and acknowledge milestones, both big and small within your community. These practices not only reinforce the community's shared values but also highlight the unique contributions of each member, fostering a powerful sense of belonging.
More Human's Role in Crafting Connected Communities:
At More Human, we're committed to leveraging technology to enhance, not replace, human connection. Our tools and resources are designed to simplify the event planning and community building, allowing organisers to focus on what truly matters: the people. By providing tools that facilitate easy interaction and shared experiences, we empower communities to find their horizontal glue.
Conclusion:
Horizontal glue is the secret ingredient that transforms a group of individuals into a cohesive, supportive community. It's about creating shared moments that lead to lasting connections, where every member feels seen, heard, and valued. As More Human continues to explore and support the intricacies of community building, we invite you to join us in strengthening the horizontal glue within your own communities, one event at a time.
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