I think the term "lurkers" is legitimate, particularly when advising on online communities. It is easy to forget about them and you need a strategy to make sure they are engaged. In some communities, it takes a good while for lurkers to convert to members and when you're growing a community, it is critical to understand that. Lurkers can be community advocates long before becoming members themselves. Just my two cents.
Angela Connor
@communitygirl

I agree with Bryan. I've seen through managing a community of thousands that people are very clever. This is just the beginning of cleaning up the space. No algorithm can replace the human element. My suggestion is that we appreciate it, but not get too comfortable.

Whoa! This sounds like a complete nightmare. Given your account, Chris...it sounds like there are several issues and they just haven't really thought through the best way to engage with the community about all of this. I think honesty is always the best policy. The legalese you're getting is indicative of a directive to go into "crisis management" mode and the person you're referring to is doing just that, in the way that she knows how to do it. I'm with you that it doesn't work when you're talking social communications. the approach needs to be different and they need a real plan for diffusing this situation. I'd love to be in a position to offer them some paid advice because they certainly need it. Geez, what a mess.

I think this is a wonderful addition that will convert those who have failed to see the value or simply find growing a fan base on Facebook too daunting.

This is interesting to note. I have grown increasingly interested in LinkedIn for B2B and how college students are using LinkedIn. It seems to be a great way for consultants to find work, particularly in the Answers section, and even top executives are finding value in the Groups feature.