Kelsi ClymerFacebook Groups seem like an easy way to build a community—until you realize you’re not actually in control of it.
At first, it feels great. It’s free, people already have Facebook accounts, and the setup is simple. But then… the cracks start to show.
Your posts get buried by the algorithm. Engagement drops. Half your members never see your content. Someone reports a post, and suddenly your group is on review. And just when you think it couldn’t get worse—Facebook suggests your group members join a competitor’s group.
If you’re building a serious community—one that supports your business, builds real relationships, and (let’s be honest) makes you money—you need a platform that works for you, not against you.
Let’s talk about why Facebook Groups are holding your community back—and why it’s time to move on.
The Problems with Facebook Groups
You Don’t Own Your Audience—Facebook Does
Ever post something important in your group, only to have crickets in the comments? That’s because Facebook decides who sees your posts, not you.
The algorithm favors engagement bait (think: drama, outrage, cat videos). Your thoughtful community discussions? Buried.
And let’s not forget: Facebook can shut down your group at any time. No explanation. No appeal. One rogue report, and poof—years of work, gone overnight. Hope you had a backup plan.
Facebook Distracts More Than It Engages
Let’s be honest—no one logs onto Facebook to focus.
They come to check one notification and somehow end up watching a 30-minute conspiracy theory video about why birds aren’t real.
Your members aren’t ignoring your content on purpose—they’re just being lured away by Facebook’s infinite scroll of doom. And the worst part? It’s designed that way. Facebook doesn’t want them hanging out in your community. It wants them clicking ads.
Meanwhile, your community conversations are competing with Aunt Karen’s political rants and someone’s baby photos. (Spoiler: You’re gonna lose.)
No Customization, No Branding, No Control
Every Facebook Group looks exactly the same—because it’s not your space. It’s Facebook’s.
You can’t change the layout, customize the experience, or organize content the way your community actually needs. And forget about proper monetization—if you want to charge for access, you’re stuck hacking together messy workarounds.
Worst of all? Your group literally helps Facebook make money—not you. Ads, suggested groups, and even notifications push people away from your community and into whatever Facebook wants them to engage with next.
That’s not a community. That’s Facebook letting you borrow a little corner of its empire while it profits off your hard work.
What a Paid Community Platform Gives You Instead
If Facebook Groups are like renting a tiny, noisy apartment with a landlord who randomly changes the locks, a paid community platform is like owning your own home.
Here’s what you get when you move your community to a real platform:
Full Ownership & Control
- No algorithm gatekeeping your content.
- No risk of being shut down overnight.
- Your community, your rules.
A Distraction-Free Experience
- Members log in with intent—they’re here for your community, not clickbait.
- No ads, notifications, or endless scrolling traps.
A Fully Branded, Custom Experience
- Organize content, discussions, and courses the way you want.
- Create a premium experience that makes members want to stay (and pay).
- Monetize without fighting Facebook’s policies.
Choosing the Right Paid Community Platform
There are a lot of great paid community platforms out there, and honestly, almost any of them are better than Facebook Groups.
The best platform for you depends on your goals, audience, and business model.
If you need something simple and all-in-one for courses, memberships, and discussions, I recommend Circle—it’s easy to use, fully customizable, and built for engagement.
That said, if you need something different, there are plenty of options out there. What matters most is that you pick a platform that puts YOU in control—not Facebook.
Free Isn’t Always Better
Facebook Groups seem convenient—until you realize you’re building a community you don’t actually control.
If you’re serious about growing a thriving, engaged, and monetizable community, you need to invest in a platform that works for you, not against you.
And the best part? It doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re done fighting Facebook’s algorithm, let’s find a platform that actually works for you. I can help.