Part talkback radio, part conference call, part Houseparty, Clubhouse is a social networking app based on audio-chat. Users can listen in to conversations, interviews, and discussions between interesting people on various topics – it is just like tuning in to a podcast but live and with an added layer of exclusivity.
Clubhouse is invite only. You can’t just download it off the app store and create an account. Much like a real-life country or yacht club, you have to be invited to join by an existing member. Real world elitism, but make it virtual.
When you join, you select topics of interest, like tech, books, business, or health. The more information you give the app about your interests, the more conversation rooms and individuals the app will recommend you follow or join.
The conversation room is just like a conference call, but with some people on the call talking, and most listening in. And, just like a phone call, once the conversation is over, the room is closed. Unlike Twitch – where live-streamed videos stay on the platform for people to return to and watch – the live audio-chats had in conversation rooms disappear. (However, this doesn’t stop users from recording the live conversation. A YouTube user, for instance, live-streaming a conversation room launched by Elon Musk).
How do I get a Clubhouse invite?
To join, an existing Clubhouse user has to send an invite from their app giving you access to set up an account. If you are invited, you’ll see a link texted to your phone number, directing you to a sign-up page in the app.
Clubhouse users can’t just send an invite to anyone who wants to join, however. Existing users only have two invites available at first.
In a recent blog post, the creators have announced that their 2021 goal is to complete the app’s beta stage, so they can eventually “open up Clubhouse to the whole world”.
Here’s why Clubhouse has staying power.
#1: It Has True Virality
Unlike most social platforms where follower counts are simply a vanity metric, followers are different on Clubhouse.
When someone you follow jumps up on a stage, the app notifies you in a simple but compelling way—even if your phone is locked. If you click on the notification, you instantly join the room as a passive listener.
The notifications feature feels a lot like the early days of Facebook Live, where you could push a button and hundreds of people would simply show up.
As your network grows in Clubhouse, you’ll be able to draw larger crowds.
Here’s a pro tip: By simply asking questions and getting invited up on a stage, people will check out your profile and some will follow you.
#2: It’s Just Your Voice! No Need to Be Camera-Ready…
A big thing that stops people from embracing live video is turning on the camera. With this live audio app, that barrier is fully eliminated. Your avatar is all you need.
This means no matter how you look, you can join the conversation. Just rolled out of bed? No problem! You can participate in Clubhouse. At the grocery store? No worries! Just plug in your AirPods and rock and roll!
#3: Rapidly Build Business Connections
Because so much of this platform is about your voice, it’s a powerful way to make business connections.
Just like those hallway conversations that take place at conferences, the same thing happens within Clubhouse. Rather than exchanging cards, people check out your Instagram or Twitter account and the conversations happen there.
I’ve already had many private conversations with people I’m interested in working with. If you start to think about the possibilities, there’s a great opportunity to use this platform to grow an agency or gain clients.
#4: It Empowers You to Use Your Voice
On many platforms, only the people with huge followings have a voice. Clubhouse levels the playing field. It’s no longer about the numbers—it’s all about what comes from your lips.
When you don’t need to fight to build your social proof with vanity metrics, you really focus on using your voice.
#5: It Offers Real Human Engagement
Looking for someone to chat with? Wish you could overhear people talking about interesting topics? Clubhouse opens up small group discussions on a wide range of topics. It’s not unusual for people to share their failures along with their successes.
#6: You Can Test Your Ideas
This platform provides a great opportunity to crowdsource content. But it also allows you to explore expressing yourself in new areas.
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