That phrase is a very popular topic for articles and videos providing advice on growing a Telegram channel. The key strategies to attract active and real members for free revolve around content quality, promotion, and engagement.

Here is a summary of the most effective free methods to boost your Telegram channel:

1. Content is King (and Quality Attracts)
Define a Clear Niche: Be very specific about your channel's topic (e.g., "Daily Python Coding Tips" not just "Tech"). This attracts an already interested audience.

Post High-Value Content: Every post should offer value—be it exclusive tips, in-depth analysis, curated news, or entertaining media. This gives people a strong reason to join and stay.

Be Consistent: Maintain a regular posting schedule. Your audience should know when to expect new content.

Use Variety: Mix up your formats: use text posts, images, short videos, GIFs, and native Polls to keep the feed engaging.

2. Leverage Other Platforms for Promotion
Social Media Cross-Promotion: Share your Telegram channel link (e.g., t.me/YourChannelName) prominently on all your other social profiles:

Add it to your Instagram/TikTok bio.

Include it in the description of your YouTube videos.

Tweet about your exclusive Telegram content.

Share it in relevant Facebook groups (check the group's rules first!).

Website/Blog Integration: If you have a website, place a clear Call-to-Action (CTA) button or a widget inviting visitors to join your Telegram channel.

Email Signature: Include your Telegram channel link in your professional email signature.

Ask Your Contacts: Manually invite people from your personal Telegram contacts list who you genuinely think would be interested in your content.

3. Internal Telegram Growth
Mutual Promotion (Cross-Promotion): Find other Telegram channels in a similar niche but with a non-competing audience and a similar subscriber count. Agree to give each other a shout-out or share a post. This is one of the most effective free methods.

List in Directories: Submit your public channel to free Telegram channel directories and catalogs.

Participate in Themed Groups (Non-Spammy): Join large Telegram groups related to your niche. Provide genuinely helpful answers and insights to other members' questions. Only subtly mention or share your channel link when it is highly relevant and permitted by the admin. Never spam!

Optimize for Search:

Use relevant Keywords in your channel name and description.

Make sure your channel is Public.

Link Channel and Group: If you have a channel, link a related discussion group to it. This provides a place for members to interact, which fosters a community and drives engagement.

4. Encourage Engagement and Community
Interactive Content: Run quizzes, host live polls, and ask direct questions to spark discussion. Active members are less likely to leave.

Run Contests/Giveaways: Host a free contest where one of the entry requirements is joining and sharing your channel link. The prize should be relevant to your niche (e.g., an e-book, a template, or a free service).

Feature User Content: Encourage and showcase content or ideas submitted by your members (User-Generated Content). This makes them feel valued and invested in the community.

Start a Discussion: Pin a welcome message or a key post that invites new members to introduce themselves or share their thoughts.