As your community grows, it becomes harder for members to find and connect with one another. Profiles get buried, interactions slow down, and engagement starts to fade.
A member directory solves this by turning your member list into a searchable, organized network. It helps members discover each other, share expertise, and stay connected while giving you full control over profiles and access.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a member directory that boosts engagement and builds a stronger, more connected community.
Assume You Have The Following Things in Place
- WordPress
- Domain
- Hosting
- A solid directory plugin like aDirectory ( Here we’ll work with aDirectory but you can choose any directory solution you like )
- A WordPress directory theme ( However, you can choose any theme like Astra, OceanWp, Neve, etc )
Let’s Create a Member Directory with a Very Little Amount of Cost, Shall We?
As we have already assumed that you installed WordPress with a domain ( perfectly resonate the niche you work with) and hosting. Now, move on to start building your member directory website on WordPress.
Step 01: Install a WordPress directory plugin
To install it, navigate to the WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Add New, search for aDirectory.
Next, click “Install Now”
Finally, hit the Activate button.
Congratulations! 🎉🥳You have installed and activated aDirectory on your WordPress website successfully.
Wait ! You can install and activate aDirectory in another way, don’t you want to know? Let’s get cracking.
To do that, first download aDirectory from WordPress repository.
Then, go to your WordPress website dashboard, next to Plugins > Add New > Upload Plugin
Next, hit the “Choose file”
Then, click on the “Install Now” button.
Finally, hit the Activate button.
And, you are all set to go.
Step 02: Install a theme
Method 1: Install from WordPress Repository (Free Theme)
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
- Go to Appearance → Themes → Add New.
- Use the search bar to find a theme you like.
- Hover over the theme and click Install.
- After installation, click Activate to make it live on your site.
Method 2: Upload a Theme (.zip file)
- Download your theme as a
.zipfile. - Go to Appearance → Themes → Add New → Upload Theme.
- Click Choose File, select your
.zipfile, and click Install Now. - After installation, click Activate.
Step 03: Configure basic directory settings
With the plugin and theme in place, configure your directory’s core settings.
Navigate to aDirectory → Settings & Builder → Settings in your WordPress dashboard.
Adjust the following options:
- Listing Management
- Display Settings
- User Permissions
- Currency & Pricing
Step 04: Create categories, tags, and locations
Proper organization is key for a smooth user experience.
a) Categories
Categories group your listings by type (e.g., Fine Dining, Cafes, Food Trucks).
Tod do this, navigate to aDirectory → All Listings → Categories → Add New Category.
Add a name, slug, description, parent category (if necessary), icon and image.
Click Add New Listing Category to save.
Once you’ve successfully created a category, it will appear in the category list on the right sidebar.
Finally, you can add the first listing to your member directory website.
Final Thoughts: How to Create a Member Directory
Creating a member directory is more than compiling names. It helps build connections, foster engagement, and strengthen your community.
A well-organized, searchable, and user-friendly directory allows members to discover each other, collaborate, and stay involved, turning your community into an active and thriving network.
