S2: Ep 7 | A Fresh Perspectives take-over: How to build community

Building a successful community isn't about gathering large numbers of people in one place. It's about creating meaningful connections that drive real business outcomes. Former Microsoft MVP program leader Laurie Pottmeyer shares her proven strategies for building communities that actually work.Laurie spent nearly two decades at Microsoft developing some of their most successful community programs, including the Microsoft 365 MVP program. She reveals the critical difference between connection and momentum, and why most community building efforts fail before they even begin.The conversation covers everything from getting executive buy-in and measuring ROI to choosing the right tools and maintaining consistent engagement. You'll learn why purpose beats participation, how to identify your community champions, and the three essential elements every successful community needs from day one.Whether you're building an internal champions program or an external customer community, this episode provides a practical roadmap for creating communities that deliver measurable value to both members and organizations.