The latest tool in PR pros’ toolboxes is the invite-only social networking app, Clubhouse. People are going crazy to get access to find out what all the buzz is about.
Clubhouse users can listen in on conversations, interviews and chats or discussions between “interesting” people on various topics. According to The Guardian, “it’s kind of like tuning into a podcast but live and with an added layer of exclusivity”…you know, cause it’s invite only. By the way, anyone can get an invite.
Vogue described the app‘s experience as “a dizzying bringing together of live podcast-style conversations, panel discussions, networking opportunities (some savvy people are already swapping ‘influencer’ for ‘moderator’) and advantageous multiple-room use (locked and private options are available so you can talk to pals too), the social-media app mimics real-life interactions.”
We wouldn’t be us if we didn’t check it out and give our feedback.
The Pros
For newer PR pros or communication professionals, Clubhouse can be great for listening and learning from experienced communicators. You can also “interact” or listen (you can’t talk unless they call on you) with various celebrities using the app. You can listen in as Oprah gives away a variety of items (you get a car and you get a car) or tune in as Kevin Hart or Tiffany Haddish tries out their latest material. If you’re into the whole celebrity culture, then you’ll love Clubhouse.
Refinery29 described networking as the primary reason for Clubhouse’s rising popularity.
The Cons
Honestly, it’s a lot of f*cking noise. Even though you can filter down rooms by interests, it’s a whole lot of talking heads. PR practitioners have a lot on their plate—pitching, writing, follow-up, researching etc. We don’t have time to sit and listen to the “popular” kids talk about how they’ve found success while they all pat each other on the back. You cannot participate unless you are called on, after you “raise” your hand. It’s all very disorganized, and there is no visual element which is a big miss—we’re not talking video chats (although we do live in the age of Zoom). We’re talking about the ability to show graphs, presentations etc. If this app was truly made for communicators, then the inventors would know you gotta keep our attention because we get bored easily.
The other big issue Clubhouse is encountering is abuse and content violations. The assholes always have to ruin everything, don’t they? You can’t have a social networking site without bigotry, hate, misogyny and discrimination…obvs.
Vanity Fair wrote a piece in December detailing out how the ephemeral, audio-only nature of Clubhouse allowed the app to “become a haven for the powerful to flirt with misogyny and racism.”
There you have it, folks: our thoughts on Clubhouse. We’ve got, like, 15 extra invites if anyone wants to waste their time. Hit us up.
