So, you've created an awesome Discord server, and you're ready to share it with the world? Making your server public is the key to attracting new members and building a thriving community. But navigating the settings can be tricky. This guide provides dependable advice on how to make your Discord server public, ensuring you attract the right members and keep your community safe.
Understanding Server Privacy Settings
Before diving into the steps, it's crucial to understand Discord's server privacy settings. There are essentially two main options:
- Public: Anyone can discover and join your server. This is ideal for growing a large community quickly. However, it also increases the risk of unwanted members joining.
- Private: Only those with an invite link can join. This is a great option if you want more control over your community's membership. You can share the invite link selectively with specific individuals or groups.
This guide focuses on making your server public, but understanding the difference is important for choosing the best setting for your needs.
Steps to Make Your Discord Server Public
Making your Discord server public is straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Access Server Settings: Log into your Discord account and navigate to your server. Click on the server's name in the left sidebar. Then, click the "Server Settings" (usually a gear icon) near the bottom of the sidebar.
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Navigate to "Membership Screen": In the Server Settings menu, you'll find several options. Look for "Membership Screen" or a similarly labeled section. This is where the magic happens.
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Change the "Server Discovery" Setting: Within the Membership Screen section, you should see a setting related to server discovery or visibility. This is the crucial step. You'll need to change the setting from "Invite Only" (or similar) to "Public".
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Save Changes: Once you've selected "Public," be sure to save your changes. This usually involves a button labeled "Save Changes," "Save," or something similar.
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Verify the Change: After saving, check your server's listing on the Discord server discovery page to ensure it's publicly visible. Search for your server by its name to confirm.
Boosting Your Server's Discoverability
Making your server public is only half the battle. To attract members, you need to actively work on improving its discoverability:
Optimize Your Server's Name and Description:
- Keyword Research: Use relevant keywords in your server's name and description. Think about what people would search for to find a server like yours.
- Clear Description: Write a concise and engaging description that clearly explains the purpose and focus of your server. Highlight what makes it unique and appealing.
- Eye-Catching Name: A memorable name is key. Make it short, catchy, and relevant to your server's theme.
Use Relevant Server Categories:
Discord allows you to categorize your server. Selecting the appropriate categories helps users find your server through relevant searches. Choosing accurate categories is crucial for optimal visibility.
Active Community Engagement:
A vibrant and active community is more attractive to potential members. Encourage participation through regular events, discussions, and welcoming new members.
Promote Your Server:
Share your server's invite link across other platforms, such as social media, forums, and other relevant communities.
Important Considerations Before Going Public
- Community Guidelines: Before making your server public, establish clear community guidelines to maintain a positive and safe environment. This helps moderate potentially disruptive behavior.
- Moderation: Prepare for an influx of new members and plan your moderation strategy accordingly. Consider adding moderators to help manage your growing community.
- Server Security: Implement appropriate security measures to protect your server and members' information.
By following these steps and taking into account the additional considerations, you can successfully make your Discord server public and build a thriving, welcoming community. Remember, patience and consistent effort are key to building a successful server.
