How to Start a Discussion List
Imagine talking with a group of people about something you all love to discuss. That's the benefit of a group discussion list. Being part of a list can be fun and fulfilling, but how do you start one yourself? It’s not as difficult as you may think. Here's how to start your list and keep it running smoothly.
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Instructions
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Find a common topic to discuss with other list members. It can be a favorite author, video games, politics, or just a list where you all talk about anything and everything. Common interests are what keep a list alive and thriving.
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Find a place to host the list. Unless you want to copy each email that goes out to each member, find a platform to do it for you. Yahoo! Groups, Topica and Microsoft all have platforms designed especially for email discussion groups. Use the platform with the features that fit your individual needs best. You can also find other groups to join there as well.
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Invite your friends to the list first. Then open invitations up to a wider membership. This way, you'll meet new people and have access to your current friends. Advertise your list on blogs and online destinations for like-minded people to expand your membership.
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Be open-minded but disciplinarian. Discussions can get very heated. Unless you want your entire list to fall apart, keep arguments to a minimum. Since this is your list, be the final word in closing arguments. Arguments that get out of hand can cause other members to leave your list.
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Keep up with your members. A discussion list can start out strong and start to dwindle over time unless you keep the conversation flowing. Write often if discussion is slowing down. Sometimes all it takes to reinvigorate a list is for one person to start a thread. That person can be you if others aren't posting.
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Tips & Warnings
Never discuss sensitive topics unless you don't mind creating heated arguments.
