Networking, Questions and Private Members Clubs.

At Networking Events I often get asked questions regarding the world of Private Members Clubs, particularly those in Mayfair, London. It is a natural curiosity to the uninitiated. Most Clubs pride themselves on their discretion, and a lack of knowledge on Clubs will always be met by a degree of cynicism and skepticism. After explaining that I worked at the Army & Navy Club, someone then proceeded to ask me “is that a Gentleman’s Club?” With this type of question, context is key. I replied “if you mean by the traditional sense in that a gentleman’s club was originally founded by English upper class men in the 18th and 19th Century, you would be correct, however with the advent of time it would be wiser to suggest that a Gentleman’s Club does not truly reflect the function and form of a Club such as the Army & Navy Club, a Club where Lady Members have complete parity with their male counterparts, a virtue not all clubs can attest to.”

“So why should I join a Private Members Club?” I was asked. While each individual of a Club have their own particular tastes and nuances, generally speaking, Private Members Clubs offer a space where members can relax in a place that’s void of common pitfalls on high street establishments such as loud customers, rude waiters, sticky floors etc. Clubs have their own event programmes that have diverse and exciting offerings. Members can take advantage of reciprocal benefits from affiliate clubs around the world, providing a place to unwind beyond the hotel in a foreign land.

For over 175 years the Army & Navy Club has maintained its identity as a prestigious yet surprisingly modern Club. The implied social and economic status of its Members presents interesting networking opportunities, in an environment where people are more receptive to introductions and discussions.

A few weeks later, I saw the familiar face of a new Member enjoying a rather delicious cocktail known as a “BBT” in the Smoking Room Bar, a familiar face who once asked me, “Is that a Gentlemen’s Club?”

Should you wish to ask me any Army & Navy Club related questions , please feel free to contact me on Club@TheRag.co.uk or have a browse on the Army & Navy Club’s website www.TheRag.co.uk. You can also tweet @TheRagClub.

You can tweet me personally on @SquidgySeye

Its about time I took Twitter a bit more seriously…

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