April 3, 2024

Psychology Behind User Engagement and Community Building with Guido Jansen

Welcome to nohacks.show, a weekly podcast where smart people talk to you about better online experiences! 

In this episode, we dive deep with Guido Jansen, an Applied Cognitive Psychologist, podcast host and producer, and global evangelist at Spryker. With over two decades of expertise in psychology, e-commerce, and technology, Guido shares his unique perspective on building online communities, the role of in-person events in fostering connections, and the psychology behind user engagement.

Guido opens up about his journey from the early days of the internet, navigating through the 'glory days' with a Pentium 386, to leading communities for Joomla, Magento, and Spryker. He highlights the essential role of memory in understanding data and stresses the invaluable aspects of the community that competitors cannot replicate: the peer-to-peer support, the ecosystem of developers, and the shared experiences that come with being part of a community.

Moreover, Guido touches on the evolution of online forums, the importance of face-to-face interactions in building lasting relationships within communities, and how companies can foster a sense of belonging and trust amongst their members. He also delves into the psychological aspects of community engagement, discussing cognitive biases such as social proof and authority, and their impact on digital platforms.

Guido's insights extend beyond the digital realm, advocating for the power of in-person connections made at events and conferences, and how these experiences contribute to the success and growth of online communities. Join us as Guido shares his wealth of knowledge, humorous anecdotes, and the psychology behind creating engaging, thriving online spaces. Whether you're a community manager, a developer, or just passionate about digital engagement, this episode offers valuable lessons on the power of community and connection in the digital age.

00:00:00 - Getting to Know Guido Jansen
00:01:23 - The Unique Hiring Criteria for CRO
00:02:05 - The Essence of Online Communities
00:04:26 - The Impact of In-Person Events on Community Building
00:07:12 - The Evolution and Future of Online Communities
00:12:41 - Turning Lurkers into Active Community Members
00:16:53 - Building Trust and Fostering Empathy in Communities
00:22:47 - Leveraging Cognitive Biases for Community Engagement
00:33:25 - Conclusion and Where to Find Guido Next

Links:

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Episode intro/outro music by Josh Silverbauer (LinkedIn, Analyrical YouTube) and Jacon Packer (LinkedIn, Quantable Analytics)