How do you build community around your product or service?
Sometimes I struggle doing this while building https://jemsplash.com because I am so focused on all the technical aspects but, this is very important to do. Would love to see how you build community.
As an introvert, is this something you struggle with?
I know exactly how you feel. I spent three months building a product and kept postponing building of a community until the product was nearly finished. I love technically challenging projects. I then realised that probably have gone the wrong way around things, so I decided to start on a new project where I focus on community first and tech later. This was how the idea of Indiemy was born 2.5 weeks ago.
I am somewhat introvert myself, but learned years back to put it aside and just to do things anyway. If you go to the landing page https://indiemy.com (will be taken down later today) you will see a video with me. I don't really like doing seeing myself on a video, but I do them because I realise just how important it is that I at least try.
I am launching the beta today and then focus will be all on community building until I have the first 1000 people using the site. I expect that I will have to go through multiple uncomfortable situations, but that is OK because if I get this to fly, I will never again need to take a 9-17 job. Just as important, when I get this to work, I will be able to spend the rest of my life doing technically fun stuff! This is pretty much how I overcome any feeling of objection against doing things I don't really feel like doing.
I know it sounds very basic, but focus on building relationships one by one. It doesn't matter where.
'Easy' ways to start:
Once you start talking to people they will lead you towards the things you should be doing.
You can try building a Slack group or a forum on your site. This is what we do with Nocodify.com.
Introvert or not, you are the expert on your product, you should be out in the frontlines promoting your product everywhere!