Wow.
We’re already on #5!
Only 2 more after this one and we’ll be done the 7 Part Series covering the Elements of a Successful Social Network.
If you’ve happened to miss the previous 4, you can check out those elements here:
It’s been a great run so far and we’re finally on the “back stretch.” So let’s jump right in.
Element #5 – Earning Points
There’s something about the need to “earn” points.
We could probably deep dive into the mind and the human condition from all types of angles but research has shown that social networks that have a system whereby the participants, users, and members can earn points has typically yielded great returns.
People like to earn things, just like in the offline space.
Just think about all the things that you enjoy doing. How many of them are related to “earning points” as a part of their system? Can you say “sports?”
Here’s a perfect example: There are probably quite a few of you that are very familiar with this thing called Fantasy Football. People are absolutely fanatical about that thing.
People gather to earn points about football games that happen in real life.
Can you think of some other good examples? So as you begin to build our your strategy for engagement, consider using “points” as a low entry functional req.
Points are dangerous, well to me. I am far too competitive
Take CounterStrike for example – if I am not on top then someone is cheating , grrrrrrrrrr
but I stay away from that, now I just stare at my WP stats graph, lol
More relevant example could be the number of posts, comments or thumbs up for them?
The number of blog you contribute on?
Am I on the right path here?
the average syllables per word in a post – NOT
Phill(SynapticLight)
PUAHAHAHA. that's why IntenseDebate is insane.
Earning points blog post from a guy who tweeted in post his #1 status in IntenseDebate just yesterday.
No, I cannot think of a single example.
(And someone "thumbs up" me here, i am falling behind!)