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    The Curse of Knowledge in Community Management

    Learn how the curse of knowledge cognitive bias impacts member onboarding and engagement, and discover practical ways to overcome it in your community.

    Published
    26 September 2026

    The Curse of Knowledge is a cognitive bias that occurs when an individual, who is communicating with others, unknowingly assumes that the others have the background to understand. In community management, it manifests when community professionals become so deeply familiar with their community’s platform, culture, jargon, and history that they are unable to view it from the perspective of a new or less engaged member. This disconnect can inadvertently create a confusing, unwelcoming, and frustrating experience for newcomers, hindering their ability to connect and participate.

    Why it matters — The Curse of Knowledge in Community Management

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