I found the week 8 reading one of the most useful in terms of ‘finding my community’. Becoming a part of something online sounds super easy, however until you actually attempt it you realise how difficult it can be. Oatway highlights the best road to take when it comes to trying to engage in an online community, he refers to it as The Big Five. In brief, he discusses bloggers which is an identity we are all building on within this course. He also mentions the use of professional social media groups, and what makes them gain maximum followers. You’ll notice online groups that are open to the public receive the most attention, for obvious reasons. Of course the more keen bloggers will find interest in private communities, which Oatway encourages readers to try and join.

Oatway believes the best way to interact with a community is to of course, follow them first, but also keep track of what is posted. When comfortable begin commenting and replying to others with the community and hopefully you’ll soon “begin to find your place”.

 

Oatway, Jay, Apr 26, 2012, Mastering Story, Community and Influence : How to Use Social Media to Become a Socialeader Wiley, Hoboken. 97-109. ISBN: 9781119943457.