Invite-only online communities connect those with niche interests
Trend - Individuals with specific interests, professions and skills are connecting via online communities that are invite-only. This ensures that people who are swapping information and ideas have the same level expertise as other participants.
Insight - With networking increasingly being digital and existing within online platforms, users are looking to connect with others who specialize in their niche interests, professions or hobbies. By creating communities online that are invite-only, the value and transfer of knowledge among members is seen as a key resource. This trend speaks to the larger ways in which traditional professional activities, such as hiring and training practices, are increasingly coming to life online.
Insight - With networking increasingly being digital and existing within online platforms, users are looking to connect with others who specialize in their niche interests, professions or hobbies. By creating communities online that are invite-only, the value and transfer of knowledge among members is seen as a key resource. This trend speaks to the larger ways in which traditional professional activities, such as hiring and training practices, are increasingly coming to life online.
Workshop Question - Conceptualize an invite-only platform that your brand could use to connect its customers.
Trend Themes
1. Invite-only Networking - Invite-only online communities are a growing trend for people with specific interests or professions to connect and exchange ideas. This trend presents opportunities for businesses to create exclusive online communities for their customers or employees to share knowledge and improve engagement.
2. Social Collection-oriented Apps - Social platforms that cater to collecting and curating physical objects are gaining popularity as users look to connect with like-minded individuals. This trend presents opportunities for businesses to create platforms that allow customers to showcase their products and connect with other enthusiasts.
3. Membership-based Community Apps - Membership-based community apps that connect individuals based on shared interests or passions are becoming more popular, offering real-world events and networking opportunities. This trend presents opportunities for businesses to create online communities for their customers that offer exclusive events and experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Retailers can leverage invite-only networking to create exclusive communities of their most loyal customers, providing a forum for these customers to share ideas and feedback.
2. Entertainment - Social collection-oriented apps can provide a platform for entertainment companies to connect with their audiences and create communities of passionate fans.
3. Technology - Membership-based community apps offer opportunities for technology companies to connect with their users, offering exclusive events and opportunities for users to provide feedback on products and services.
