According to information recently released by LinkedIn, Brazil is the third country with the highest engagement on the platform, surpassing the 75 million user mark. The average reported by the network is that 150,000 Brazilians create accounts weekly, making this environment one of the most sought-after for professional contacts. However, a new trend is gaining strength: business clubs. After all, no other format will be more authentic and assertive than the real world.
For Tiago Machado, founder and CEO of Club M Brasil, one of the country's largest business clubs, the secret lies in combining digital tools with in-person experiences. "Today, virtual platforms facilitate access to different types of people and the exchange of information among them, but within standardized professional profiles, it is difficult to establish deep connections. Another point of attention regarding social media connections is the quality of the exchange, since we are used to sharing our successes in these spaces, but it is precisely through vulnerability, by opening up about the main challenges faced daily, that we will be able to broaden our repertoire to truly make a difference in our company," he states.
Thinking of helping entrepreneurs create impactful professional interactions, the executive listed the top five tips below. Check below
Real experiences create stronger bondsIn-person exchanges create space to build bonds of trust. "Initiatives like business clubs, for example, promote lunches and gatherings that go beyond formality. It is precisely when you share a meal or participate in an activity outside the office that barriers fall and people get closer," says Machado.
Segmentation and focusSocial networks offer reach, but they fall short in assertiveness. "Clubs bring together people with the same interests and affinities. These segmented groups help direct conversations and create more strategic partnerships, as well as allow entrepreneurs to exchange relevant experiences for their areas of expertise, facilitating collaborations that truly make a difference in business," explains the CEO.
Mutual learning in trusted environmentsUnlike what happens virtually, where interaction is often superficial, in-person meetings offer a space for mutual learning. "Business club for entrepreneurs offers activities focused on learning, such as discussion circles and pitch days, forming a mutual aid community for generating insights and solutions to common challenges," reveals the executive.
Creating environments conducive to innovation
The best ideas don't always come up in meeting rooms. "Alternative environments, such as beach meetings or visits to other entrepreneurs' companies, provide a more relaxed atmosphere where creativity can flourish. The variety of settings helps break thought patterns and opens space for innovation, something difficult to achieve in interactions limited to a screen," emphasizes the specialist.
Connections beyond the immediate goal
Often, online connections have an immediate and specific purpose. In the real world, professional interactions can and should be seen as a continuous process. "Working on activities that promote the building of personal relationships creates a fertile ground for business to happen naturally. By encouraging participation in social activities, trips, and events, entrepreneurs are able to build a broader, more diverse, and strategic network of contacts," concludes Machado.
