Luckily, you may be in an even better position to do a lot of things than your store's owner. At my store, we rely on our customers heavily, both for volunteer work and official organizing, as well as setting the example. So let's go through a few ways you can help your FLGS, whether your store's owner is actively working to build community or not.

Be an Awesome Person

This is really step one, and every other option starts here first. One of my first columns outlined being a leader. Whether you want to embrace the label or not, that makes a good benchmark. Try to keep a positive, helpful attitude. If someone looks lost and the staff are busy, go talk to them! Can your board game take an extra player or two? Ask around if anyone else wants to play!

Socializing can be difficult (and if you're an introvert like me, it's tiring), but that's part of the magic of gaming. It provides structure and goals so you don't have to flounder around making small talk.

Beyond that, just aim for some basic civility. Some gaming stores have an unfortunate (and all too often deserved) reputation as unpleasant places to hang out at, especially if you're not part of the in crowd. Smile at people. Don't stare! If they're interested in what you're doing, wave 'em over. If not, leave them be to browse. Common courtesies go a very long way sometimes.

Run a One-Shot

Roleplaying can be one of the hardest kinds of games to get into for a new player. You need a group! There are organized play resources like D&D Encounters and Pathfinder Society, but some people find them oddly intimidating.

If you're the Gamemastering type, offer to run a one-shot game for your favorite system. Games like Fiasco or Mouse Guard are prime candidates, since they're built around short, contained stories. You can also find resources from official convention games for a lot of top systems.

Ask about putting a sign-up sheet on the store counter or somewhere else visible. Limit seats to whatever you like. Make pre-generated characters to save time. And don't sweat the details! A fun, casual game with some improv and laughs is probably better than a rules-heavy, combat-focused session.

For bonus points, after the game ask if anyone might want to run the next one-shot with whatever system they like. You may be able to build a small stable of GMs for your store who share the responsibility. I also suggest asking people who played in one session to not sign up for the one immediately after, so new people have a chance to play. You can also leverage social media with a Facebook Group. Just ask folks if they want an invite and write their name down for later.

Organize an Event

Easily the most obvious, and most structured. Pick a game you're passionate about sharing and offer to run an event with an open invitation. This can take a few forms. You can check out my being a leader.

If you're starting something new, it's best to start casual. A time and place for either free play or a loosely structured tournament can go well. Of course, if you have ideas for something more creative, all the better! The key is making sure the event welcomes as many gamers as possible, of different ages and skill levels.

Some added ways you can help are making your own flyer to post (with permission, of course), creating a Facebook and/or Meetup event, and for the serious organizer, be at the store for two or three weeks on the day and time of your event beforehand to show off the game you're featuring and talk to the regulars.

Don't feel like you need to take on a weekly game if you don't have the time or drive. No sense burning yourself out. Putting on a fun game with an open invitation once in a while is a big step.

Lend a Hand

Does your store owner look tired, even exhausted, or overburdened at times? A little help can go a long way. Offer to help sweep or restock the drinks. Pick up some trash. If the staff are setting up tables for a big event, pitch in. These are things anyone can do without any real training, and I promise you'll put a smile on the boss' face. A happy store owner makes for a happy store.

Want to take that the extra step? Ask other people to lend a hand, too. Store owners can be real do-it-yourself-ers and might not ask for help when they could really use it. Getting people involved in practical, helpful work builds an amazing sense of camaraderie.

This applies to customers as well. See a wargamer toting a bunch of precariously poised bins of models? Or a roleplayer with a stack of books? Offer to help!

Visit Another Store

This sounds like madness, but trust me. Gaming stores can get clique-ish, and that's a hard pattern to break. The easiest way is often to just patronize multiple stores. Is another nearby store holding a tournament for a game you play? Join in! Follow step one above and just be an awesome person. It's not about feeding rivalries or saying your store is better. It's about defusing those feelings with a little community spirit.

Some stores will gladly sponsor players for tournaments, too. You can always ask about it. Just remember, you're not trying to win anything for your store. It's all just fun and games. Be a good sport, win or lose gracefully, smile, shake hands and thank your opponent after a match.

Communities Need Leaders

The ultimate bottom line is, communities usually don't form themselves. It takes people stepping up and making efforts. They may be small efforts like running a one-shot or helping pick up trash, or big ones like organizing a tournament series. Regardless, it takes work, and that should be your work.

Talk to your store owner, too. She or he may have specific things they'd like help with. Be clear about your personal limits as far as time, energy or skills. Also be clear about your enthusiasm and desire for community in your FLGS.

What are some ways you've helped or witnessed communities form at a gaming store? What suggestions would you give to someone trying to help make it happen?

If you have any questions, feedback or topic requests, please email me at jeremy@plus1gaming.com! Thanks.