Gain Readers with Groups

In this article, Linda talks about how to gain readers by building groups in both FaceBook and in FriendFeed. You don't need to be an extrovert to lead a group, as many times the readers will build that group for you. In the process, you will develop a 'community' that could become loyal followers as well.

FriendFeed Groups

Like FaceBook, FriendFeed also allows groups, and you can create a group or join a group in much the same method:

In FriendFeed, however, a group is just another feed rather than a place to gather for community. At the same time, FriendFeed groups can allow content from group members. Everyone who is a group member can leave comments or share links and photographs that other group members can view.

Unlike FaceBook, which puts a limit on the number of groups you can create at 200, there is no limit to the number of groups you can join or create at FriendFeed. As a group "owner," you can manage the group's settings and membership and invite new people to your group just as you would at FaceBook. You can invite non-FriendFeed users as well.Your FriendFeed subscriptions include the Groups you're a part of. There's no limit to the number of groups you can join or create. As a group owner, you can manage the group's settings and membership, and invite new people to your group, even if they're not FriendFeed users yet.

Here's how to create a FriendFeed group:

1.       Click on "Groups" in the orange "Groups" box

2.       Click the "Create a group" link

3.       Choose a name and username for your group

4.       Decide whether you want your group to be private, public or "standard"

5.       Once you've created your group, you can add a picture, description, and services, and invite others to join

FriendFeed Group Success

There is little difference between the items listed for FaceBook group success and FriendFeed group success, so I'll just refer you back to the list for FaceBook group success above. You do, however, have the option of downloading the FriendFeed Bookmarklet, and this tool allows you to post to groups without entering your FriendFeed page. You can, then, refresh your content in your FriendFeed group on the fly.

Finally, you may realize that you have less competition on FriendFeed if you're a graphic designer:

However, FriendFeed still is not as familiar to folks as FaceBook, so take this fact into consideration as well.

Conclusion

No matter if you decide to create a FaceBook or FriendFeed group, once you've created a group, you have created a responsibility for yourself to maintain that group. Otherwise, your lack of participation can reflect on your business. Consider your groups as part of your total Web package, one that you don't need to pay for in any sense other than in your time.

For introverts, a group can provide community and followers and you don't ever need to show your face at virtual "meetings" or discussions. For extroverts, a group is a great way to expend your extra extrovert energy! Just keep in mind that the people who join your group may want to share the limelight. If you allow others to have leadership and input, then you can create a powerful connection to many other possible group members.

In all cases, decide first what you want to do with your group. Otherwise, your group may flounder without a direction. Then, check out both the FaceBook and FriendFeed spaces to find the one that you're most comfortable with. From that point, it's just a matter of building your following.