How to retain and re-engage platform members
Launching a community platform is a great first step—but keeping members engaged over time is what brings it to life.
If you’ve noticed members becoming less active, or want to avoid that happening, this guide is for you. It offers practical ways to keep your members involved and coming back regularly, plus message templates you can use right away.
Why members lose interest
It’s normal for people to drop off after their first visit—but that doesn’t mean they’re lost for good.
Common reasons members go inactive include:
- Not seeing anything new or relevant
- Forgetting the platform exists
- Not knowing how to participate
- Finding the platform difficult to use
The good news? You can address all of these with simple actions.
Strategies to retain and re-engage members
1. Keep content fresh
People return when there’s something new to see. Encourage regular posting from community partners and update listings often. Highlight seasonal activities and local stories.
2. Send tailored messages
A quick, friendly reminder can go a long way—especially if it highlights relevant updates or changes since they last logged in.
3. Showcase real people
Member spotlights, volunteer stories or featured organisations help people connect emotionally with your platform. It makes things feel more personal and alive.
4. Make it easy to return
Use clear links and direct calls-to-action. “Log in and add an event,” “Browse new listings,” or “Update your profile” gives people a reason to click.
5. Follow up with new members
After someone joins, send a welcome message and check in a couple of weeks later to ask if they need help or have found what they’re looking for.
6. Ask for feedback
Sometimes just being asked what’s missing is enough to bring people back. It shows you care and want them to be part of shaping the platform.
1. Keep content fresh
People return when there’s something new to see. Encourage regular posting from community partners and update listings often. Highlight seasonal activities and local stories.
2. Send tailored messages
A quick, friendly reminder can go a long way—especially if it highlights relevant updates or changes since they last logged in.
3. Showcase real people
Member spotlights, volunteer stories or featured organisations help people connect emotionally with your platform. It makes things feel more personal and alive.
4. Make it easy to return
Use clear links and direct calls-to-action. “Log in and add an event,” “Browse new listings,” or “Update your profile” gives people a reason to click.
5. Follow up with new members
After someone joins, send a welcome message and check in a couple of weeks later to ask if they need help or have found what they’re looking for.
6. Ask for feedback
Sometimes just being asked what’s missing is enough to bring people back. It shows you care and want them to be part of shaping the platform.
Retaining members isn’t about pressure—it’s about relevance and timing. By sending the right nudge, at the right moment, with something valuable to say, you’ll keep your community active and connected for the long term.
Free templates for Made Open admins
If you are an admin of a Made Open community platform, sign in or register to this platform (different account to your own platform) and download these resources for free.
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