When the lockdowns caused many people to flee the cities, some even returning to their own countries, there were also those left behind. With their friends and business contacts gone they had to start over meeting new people.
But how? With most people working from home it wasn’t easy. The answer was a rise in members clubs, social clubs, and shared office spacers with open environments geared toward networking.
In response to this demand, members clubs like London’s Home Grown, social clubs like Merit Club and BNI, and shared office spaces like WeWork have emerged as hubs for like-minded professionals seeking connection and collaboration.
Members Clubs: The Allure of an Exclusive Community
In London, exclusive sanctuaries such as Home Grown, Eight Club, and Century Club, have emerged for elite professionals. With an emphasis on luxury, they provide members with an exquisite environment to work, socialize, and relax. With cozy nooks and crannies and the most Instagramable interior decor you could dream of, members clubs are popping up in prime locations across the city. Each offers high-end amenities such as state-of-the-art workspaces, fine dining experiences, wellness facilities, and engaging events. The allure of exclusivity and networking opportunities draws in entrepreneurs, executives, and creatives, fostering an atmosphere of inspiration and collaboration.
Social Clubs: A Diverse Tapestry of Interests
On a broader scale, social clubs like London’s Merit Club and the globally recognized BNI have flourished as inclusive communities that cater to diverse interests. Unlike members clubs, these social clubs are often open to a broader audience, welcoming individuals from various professional backgrounds.
Merit Club, for instance, is renowned for curating events and experiences that cater to the mind, body, and soul. Each month their members have options of workshops, art exhibitions, prosecco brunches, and various adventurous outings. With an emphasis on female bonding, the all-female social club attracts professional women of all ages. Although most of the events occur in London they have an international following and members can join events when in town.
BNI, on the other hand, places a strong focus on business networking and referral marketing. They provide members with a platform to expand their professional connections and opportunities. While the primary goal is business growth, a significant benefit of being a BNI member is the sense of support and camaraderie that is fostered within the organization. Most members find the social aspect of attending meetings a nice break from their work week.
WeWork: The Non-office Office
As the digital age reshapes the traditional 9-to-5 routine, the demand for flexible workspaces has never been greater. Shared office spaces like WeWork have capitalized on this need. They offer professionals the freedom to work whenever and wherever they desire, without being tied to a long-term lease.
WeWork’s appeal lies in its community-oriented approach, fostering an environment where members can collaborate, network, and build relationships. The abundance of amenities, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and free-flowing coffee, further elevates the shared office experience. The free beer after 4pm also fills the social void left by not going into a traditional office. Not to mention all the ideas that are born and deals that are made during a cheeky pint after work.
The Need for Human Connection in the Digital Age
So yes, even in an age of virtual connectivity, face-to-face interactions remain invaluable for establishing meaningful connections, sparking creativity, and cultivating collaborations. The human desire for social interaction and a sense of belonging is such that it is very likely that members clubs, social clubs, and shared office spaces will be around for a long time to come.
