We all know running an online community isn’t just about setting up a forum and hoping for the best. It takes real skill, patience, and leadership to create a space where people want to engage, contribute, and keep coming back. Skills that you don't develop easily and some take decades to learn stuff like this. So if you want to be a successful admin, here are five essential skills you need to master.
1. Technical Knowledge
There's no need to be a full-fledged developer, but having a solid grasp of your platform’s software, hosting setup, and troubleshooting basics is a must. When something breaks - or when a member asks why their post isn’t showing up - you should have enough know-how to diagnose the issue or know where to look for answers. Being technically competent also means you can keep your community running smoothly without constantly relying on outside help. Not only does it show your members you know nothing about the technical side, outside help often costs a lot of money, so it's important you know what you're doing.
1. Technical Knowledge
There's no need to be a full-fledged developer, but having a solid grasp of your platform’s software, hosting setup, and troubleshooting basics is a must. When something breaks - or when a member asks why their post isn’t showing up - you should have enough know-how to diagnose the issue or know where to look for answers. Being technically competent also means you can keep your community running smoothly without constantly relying on outside help. Not only does it show your members you know nothing about the technical side, outside help often costs a lot of money, so it's important you know what you're doing.2. Patience
Communities aren’t built overnight. It takes months, even years, for a forum to grow into something truly thriving. You’ll have slow periods, frustrating members who come and go, and times when it feels like no one appreciates the effort you’re putting in. But staying patient and committed is key. Good admins understand that long-term success comes from consistent effort, not quick fixes. If you expect instant results, you’re in for disappointment quickly.3. Decision-Making
No one likes too many chefs in the kitchen, and that applies to community management as well. When tough decisions need to be made - whether it’s enforcing a rule, banning a problematic user, or deciding the future direction of your forum - you need to act with confidence. Indecisiveness slows down progress and frustrates members. While it’s always good to take feedback and consider different perspectives, at the end of the day, admins need to be willing to make firm, fair decisions and stand by them.4. Leadership
A great admin leads by example. If you want an active, engaged community, you need to be active and engaged yourself. That means posting frequently, starting discussions, and being involved in the conversations happening on your platform. Your presence sets the tone - if members see you putting in effort, they’ll be more likely to do the same. Leadership also means knowing when to step up, when to delegate, and how to inspire others to contribute to the community’s success.5. Communication
Clear, respectful communication is at the heart of good community management. Whether you’re explaining rules, handling disputes, or making announcements, how you communicate will shape the culture of your forum. A great admin knows how to be firm without being aggressive, welcoming without being overly lenient, and transparent without oversharing. The way you talk to your members will determine how they talk to each other, so set the standard high.
What other skills do you think are missing here? What skills would you like to learn personally? Let us know in the comments.
