In the past year since setting up a content consultancy, I have joined a couple of women’s only communities to meet like-minded business owners, expand my network, and learn how to build a scalable brand.
One of the first events I attended was a panel discussion by Launchpad by Honeycombers (not technically a women’s club, but 95 per cent of its members are female), and I remember feeling inspired and rejuvenated post-event. It was like I had walked into a room full of positive cheerleaders – the women were friendly, supportive, and happy to share experiences, challenges, failures, and successes.
I felt empowered. The next day, I connected with some of them via Whatsapp: “Let’s catch up for coffee.” “You mentioned you wanted to work with a content consultant, can I help?”
Cue vague responses and empty promises to schedule a catch-up.
That was my induction to a women’s community, and I wondered if I had made a misstep. At the risk of sounding naive to the realities of networking, I expected more, especially since these clubs place such emphasis on support, authenticity and non-judgement.
I had paid about $500 (it was a discounted rate) for a year’s membership, which promised in-person and virtual events, including masterclasses, weekly calls with other members, and group mentoring sessions. The most value I’d gotten from the
