Discover Clubhouse: The Exciting New Social Audio Platform
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Clubhouse
Have you heard about Clubhouse? It's a fascinating social network designed for spontaneous audio conversations.
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The COVID-19 pandemic has made it increasingly difficult to connect with others, a vital aspect of human interaction. Imagine being able to join a lively gathering at any moment, surrounded by intelligent and engaging individuals.
Enter Clubhouse, a new social media platform introduced by Alpha Exploration Co. in March 2020, coinciding with the onset of the pandemic. This rapidly expanding, free audio-only platform allows users to meet, communicate, and exchange ideas—it's like being part of the world's largest conversation.
Unlike traditional social media platforms, Clubhouse isn't about sharing news, expressing controversial opinions, or posting selfies. Instead, it resembles a gathering or conference where meaningful discussions take place.
The Clubhouse platform is tailored for those seeking substantial interactions with others. It's an environment for conversation, listening, and learning. Picture yourself in a moderated forum filled with writers eager to assist you in enhancing your craft and boosting your visibility.
At present, participation in Clubhouse is by invitation only, making access somewhat exclusive. However, this is expected to change in the near future.
Author’s image Apple App Store
How Does Clubhouse Function?
Currently, the Clubhouse app is available exclusively for iPhone users, with an Android version anticipated soon. Invited members can set up a straightforward profile featuring a photo, a brief bio, and links to their Twitter and Instagram accounts.
After creating a profile, users select areas of interest to help personalize their experience, increasing the likelihood of discovering engaging conversations.
The app boasts a wide array of topics including global affairs, art, science, technology, business, sports, entertainment, and travel. For instance, I recently joined a discussion about positivity and health equity, learned about trading Dogecoin cryptocurrency, and absorbed best recruitment practices from industry leaders. Just yesterday, I listened to a conversation on urban vertical farming and health tech startups.
Clubhouse offers something for everyone. Moderators host virtual discussion rooms on a variety of subjects. Some rooms tackle serious issues, while others are simply casual hangouts.
Upon opening the app, users find themselves in the Clubhouse Hallway, which lists live conversations and upcoming rooms tailored to their interests. When something piques your interest, simply tap on the room and join in.
CC: Author’s image of Clubhouse Hallway
What to Expect When Joining a Room
Moderators oversee each room, facilitating real-time discussions that are not recorded. Clubhouse conversations aren't scripted or pre-recorded; they're spontaneous exchanges among participants.
All users can listen to the conversation, and you can enter a room without fear of being put on the spot. Your profile is visible, but your microphone remains muted until you choose to speak.
If you'd like to contribute to the discussion, you can "raise your hand" using an icon at the bottom right corner of your screen. This lets moderators know you're interested in sharing your thoughts.
In a room, you can see the names and images of all participants. There are three lists displayed:
- The Stage: This is where moderators and speakers are located.
- Followed by the Speakers: This section highlights attendees who are followed by the moderators—often considered the VIP area.
- Others in the Room: This includes everyone listening to the conversation. When you join, your profile appears here.
If you find that a room isn't quite right for you or you wish to leave, simply click the "leave quietly" icon in the bottom left corner.
Engaging with Clubhouse allows you to connect with fascinating individuals both within and beyond your field. You might even find yourself in a room hosted by celebrities such as Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Oprah Winfrey, or Mark Cuban.
As with any social platform, privacy and data sharing are concerns. Will Oremus discusses these issues further in One Zero.
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How to Gain Access to Clubhouse
Currently, Clubhouse operates on an invite-only basis. You need to know someone already using the app to receive an invitation. Existing members can send invites based on their participation and engagement within discussions.
To increase your chances of receiving an invite, reach out to your personal and professional network. As Clubhouse grows, it’s likely you'll find someone who is already a member. The app has reported around 2 million weekly active users, and this number continues to rise rapidly.
You can also request access without an invitation by visiting the company website. This will allow you to download the app, create a username, and join the waitlist. There is no publicly disclosed timeline for when open invitations will be available. For the latest news, follow Clubhouse on Twitter.
If you're already on Clubhouse, please share your profile name in the comments. Many writers from Medium are joining, including Michael Burg, MD, Robert Turner, Bill Abbate, Julia Beaudett, Gil Bashe, and Matt Lillywhite.
I would love to follow you as we build a vibrant writing community on the platform. You can find me at @jefflivingMD.
We'll soon be hosting Clubhouse rooms specifically for writers. Let’s connect and grow together!
Chapter 2: Getting Started with Clubhouse
Discover the basics of Clubhouse with this beginner's guide, covering how to join rooms, connect with others, and gain followers.
Learn everything you need to know about the Clubhouse app and how it works to enhance your social interactions.