If you’re feeling the extra jolt of energy in the community space this week, there is a good reason! We are riding the high of TheCR Connect which took place September 23rd – September 25th in Boston. This one-of-a-kind occasion was filled with first time meetings, reunions, and so many ah-ha moments; I’m still reeling!
Our members are still talking about the peer-led sessions they attended, the connects they made, and colleagues they met IRL. Nick Emmet did an amazing recap of day 1 and 2 of the conference you can dive into if you are feeling left out.
Many attendees and I marveled at the graphic recordings produced at the event. These unique and creative renderings help to bring the topics we discussed to life.
One of my favorite aspects of the conference was our first ever Community Solutions Showcase. Although the session stimulated many more questions than answers, it was insightful to learn more about how community platforms view the needs of community managers, and in contrast, how community managers are evaluating the platforms they choose. You haven’t seen the last of this conversation so stay tuned to TheCR for our next platform focused event.
Another one of my favorite moments from TheCR Connect 2019 was the award ceremony. TheCR Awards recognizes leaders, trailblazers, and newcomers in the community management space who are making waves. We honored long-time TheCR member and expert community manager Jeff Ross with the Lifetime Achievement award. On the other side of the spectrum, we also recognized Amy Rood, a newcomer to the community space who hit the ground running with thoughtful questions in the Network.
Although Connect took up much of TheCR teams lifeforce during September, we know that the impact of the ideas shared will continue throughout the year and this is well worth the effort.
We could not continue to put on these events without the leadership, guidence, and support of our members. One of the key conversations I am determined to continue is about empowerment.
As Rachel Happe stated during the conference, community leadership IS leadership and as community managers, it is time to step into our full power and influence.
As we move into October, I encourage you to find ways you can lead in your community. You don’t need to manage people to take up the charge of being a leader. Ask the tough questions, find a community-minded way to solve a problem. Set a meeting with a stakeholder to update them on community. If there is anything I learned from this years conference, it is this; community leaders are experts in their organizations and now is the time to speak up!
Where do you go to recharge, get advice, and find empowerment? If you’re a community manager looking for support, research, and tools, you have found your people! Join TheCR Network today and join the conversation.
