Discord for Entrepreneurs: Building Your Side Hustle Network Beyond Social Media

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HUSTLER’S HUB: THE SKILL SWAPPERS BARTER BOOTH
By Shelly Leroux · Feb 05, 2025

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.

Discord for Entrepreneurs:

Building Your Side Hustle Network Beyond Social Media

Okay, let’s be honest. We’re all a little tired of the endless scroll, the curated perfection, the constant push to buy something. Social media is great for cat videos and keeping up with your high school friends, but for serious side hustlers and entrepreneurs, it can feel… a bit like shouting into the void. You’re building a business, not trying to become an influencer (unless that’s your side hustle, in which case, carry on!). So, where do you go to connect with like-minded folks, share ideas, and actually collaborate? Enter Discord.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. Discord? Isn’t that for gamers? Well, yes. It started as a platform for gamers, but it’s evolved. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of online communities. It's incredibly versatile, and more and more entrepreneurs are discovering its power. It’s not just a chat room; it’s a dynamic space where you can build a thriving community around your side hustle.

Imagine this: you’re tinkering away on your handcrafted jewelry line after your 9-to-5. You’ve got designs bursting out of your sketchbook, but you're struggling with marketing. Instead of posting another picture on Instagram and hoping for the best, you hop onto your dedicated Discord server. You ask your community – other jewelry makers, marketing gurus, even potential customers – for feedback on your latest collection. Boom! Instant market research, valuable connections, and maybe even a collaboration with a social media whiz who’s also looking to build their portfolio.

That’s the magic of Discord. It’s a place for genuine interaction, not just fleeting likes. You can create different channels for different topics – brainstorming, feedback, resources, even just casual chit-chat. It’s like having a virtual co-working space where you can bounce ideas off people, find collaborators, and build real relationships.

So, how do you get started? First, create a Discord server for your side hustle. Think about what you want to achieve with your community. What kind of support do you need? What value can you offer others? Then, invite people! Start with your existing network – friends, family, colleagues. Share your server link on your social media profiles (yes, you still need some social media presence!), in relevant online forums, and even on your business cards.

The key is to be active and engaging. Don’t just create a server and let it gather dust. Start conversations, ask questions, offer help. Be the kind of community member you’d want to connect with. Share your wins (and your struggles!), offer resources, and foster a supportive environment.

One of the biggest advantages of Discord is its organization. Unlike the chaotic free-for-all of some social media platforms, Discord allows you to structure your community with channels and roles. You can create a channel for “Marketing Tips,” another for “Design Feedback,” and even one for “Random Chit-Chat.” This keeps things organized and makes it easy for members to find the information they need.

Another perk? Privacy. You control who’s in your Discord server. This allows for more intimate and meaningful conversations. You can build a tight-knit community of people who are genuinely invested in your success (and you in theirs).

Discord isn’t a magic bullet, of course. It takes time and effort to build a thriving community. But if you’re looking for a way to connect with other entrepreneurs, get valuable feedback, and build real relationships, Discord is definitely worth exploring. It’s a place where you can find your tribe, share your passion, and take your side hustle to the next level. So, ditch the endless scroll for a while and dive into the world of Discord. You might just be surprised at what you find.