How to Configure Member Connections in BuddyBoss Platform

Introduction

Managing member connections in BuddyBoss Platform is essential for building a professional network. This article explains how to enable and configure member connections so that users can send connection requests, manage relationships, and integrate these connections with private messaging. By following these instructions, you’ll enhance your community’s networking capabilities and provide a more meaningful user experience.

Tutorial Video

Activate Member Connections

1. Log in to your Dashboard.
   
2. Navigate to BuddyBoss > Components.
   
3. Enable the Member Connections component.
   
4. This feature lets users request connections to build professional relationships.
   
5. Note: The default terminology is “Connections” rather than “Friendships” to better suit professional networks. You can rename it later if needed.
   

Test Member Connection Requests

1. Log in as a test user (e.g., create dummy accounts such as Jessica, Trent, and others).
   
2. Visit the Connections tab on your profile to see current connections.
   
3. Click the Connect button next to a user in the members directory to send a connection request.
   
4. Log in as the recipient (e.g., Trent) and check the pending requests.
   
5. Accept the connection request, then verify that both accounts display the new connection correctly.
   
6. Use the Remove Connection option to test disconnecting if needed.
   

Integrate Private Messaging with Connections

1. Navigate to BuddyBoss > Components and enable Private Messaging.
   
2. Go to BuddyBoss > Settings > Member Connections.
   
3. Enable the option Require users to be connected before they can message each other.
   
4. Click the Save Settings button.
   
5. Verify by logging in as a user: Only those with an active connection (e.g., Trent) will have the option to send messages, while messaging options for non-connected users (e.g., Nicolina) will be disabled.
   

Configure and Display Member Connections Widget on Profiles

1. Go to Appearance > Widgets in your Dashboard.
   
2. Locate the BB Connections widget.
   
3. Add the widget to the member profile area.
   
4. This widget dynamically displays recently active, popular, and newest connections visible on a member’s profile.
   
5. Confirm by viewing any member’s profile that displays their connections list.
   

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Q: What if connection requests are not appearing?
A: Ensure the Member Connections component is enabled and that dummy accounts have been created to simulate requests. Verify connection settings in BuddyBoss > Settings > Member Connections.

Q: Why can some users message while others cannot?
A: The messaging restriction is based on the connection status. Only users who are connected (via an accepted request) can send messages when the Require users to be connected before they can message each other option is enabled.

Q: Where can I view all my connections?
A: Use the Connections tab on your member profile and the BB Connections widget on the profile page to view a dynamic list of connected users.