What Is a Meetup And Why You Should Care In 2023?

Meetups are events where people with a common interest come together to learn, network, or socialise as a group. These events could be organised around a wide range of content, from hobbies and interests to professional industries and disciplines, and could have free or paid entries. 

They are excellent ways for people to connect with others who share their passions and interests and can also be a perfect opportunity for networking and professional development. Examples of meetup apps available on the web, iOS, & Android include meetup, Eventbrite and Kumele (in beta). They are also free to join, but you do need to create an account.

Which meetup is best for you? Physical or Virtual

Meetups are physical or virtual (online) events in a specific location. Physical meetups are held within a particular area, such as a community centre, coffee shop, or office space, and attendees come together to participate in the event in person.

Virtual meetups, on the other hand, are held online using video conferencing tools or other online platforms. These events allow attendees to participate from anywhere worldwide as long as they have a device and an internet connection. Both physical and virtual meetups can be effective ways for people to connect with others and learn about topics that interest them.

Which type of meetup is healthier? Physical or virtual meetups 

It’s difficult to say which type of meetup is healthier, as both physical and virtual meetups can have health benefits. Physical meetups can be a great way to stay active and healthy, as they often involve some form of physical activity or movement. For example, a hiking or fitness class meetup can allow attendees to get some exercise and fresh air.

Virtual meetups, on the other hand, can also be beneficial for mental health and well-being, as they can provide a sense of connection and community. Participating in a virtual meetup can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness and can give a sense of support and belonging. Ultimately, the health benefits of a particular meetup will depend on the type of activity or event and the attendees’ individual needs and preferences.

Why is there a global decline in meetups?

1. Social distancing measures: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many governments and organisations have imposed social distancing measures to control the spread of the virus. These measures, such as restricting the number of people who can gather in one place, have made it challenging to host or attend in-person meetups.
2. Fear of infection: Many people are hesitant to attend in-person gatherings, including meetups, due to the risk of infection. This has led to a decline in participation even in those places where it is deemed safe to do so.
3. Financial considerations: The economic downturn caused by the pandemic has made it difficult for many people to afford to attend meetups, especially if they involve travel or other expenses.
4. Virtual alternatives: The rise of virtual communication platforms such as Zoom, Skype and Google Meet has led to an increase in virtual meetups as an alternative. Many people find it more convenient and safe to participate in these types of meetups from their homes.
5. Political or social unrest: In some parts of the world, political or social unrest has made it difficult for people to attend meetups. In such situations, meetups may be perceived as risky or dangerous, leading to a decline in participation.
6. New technologies: People’s interests, priorities and lifestyles are constantly changing, especially with new technologies and activities such as social media, cheaper mobile phones, cheaper internet and online gaming. These technologies have reduced the popularity of certain types of meetups, especially with the younger generations.

Why should we meet up?

1. Social Connection: Meetups allow people to connect with others and form relationships, which is essential for human well-being. Examples include bonding with family and friends, building romantic relationships, or even making new acquaintances.
2. Sense of community: Meetups can help people feel a sense of belonging and community, providing a sense of purpose and fulfilment. They can also offer a sense of support and understanding, which is especially important for people who may feel isolated or alone.
3. Mental and emotional benefits: Meetups allow people to engage with others and share their thoughts and feelings, which can help promote mental and emotional well-being. This benefit can include group therapy, support groups, or even casual conversations with friends.
4. Learning and personal growth: Meetups allow people to learn new things and grow as individuals. They can include educational or skill-building opportunities, such as workshops.
5. Physical activity: Meetups can provide opportunities for people to engage in physical activity, which can have numerous benefits, including improving mental health, decreasing stress levels and increasing self-esteem.
6. Mental stimulation: Meetups allow individuals to participate in mentally stimulating activities, which can help keep the brain sharp, improve cognitive function, and help people stay active as they age.

 Eight reasons to host or attend a meetup

1. Networking: A meetup can provide an opportunity to connect with people in your industry, community or with similar interests. It allows people to build new relationships and expand their professional or personal networks.
2. Knowledge sharing: Meetups are a platform for people to share their knowledge, skills and experiences. This can be done through presentations, discussions, and workshops, which can help attendees learn new things and grow their skills.
3. Professional development: Meetups can provide a valuable opportunity for professional development. They can be a great way to learn about new trends, technologies, and best practices in your field or industry.
4. Support and encouragement: Meetups are a great way to find support and encouragement from people who understand your interests or challenges. They can provide a sense of belonging, and support attendees in reaching their goals.
5. Get inspiration and ideas: Meetups can provide attendees with inspiration and ideas for projects, new career ventures, or ways to improve their current work. It can be an opportunity to explore new topics or ideas one might have yet to consider.
6. Socialisation: A meetup can be a fun and social medium to connect with like-minded people. Attending or hosting meetups can help reduce social isolation and build relationships.
7. Marketing and brand awareness: If you are an entrepreneur or business owner, meetups can be an effective way to promote your brand and reach new customers.
8. Flexibility: Meetups can be organised in different ways, from online to in-person and can be tailored to the specific interests of the attendees, making them accessible to a broader audience.

Can a hobby activity qualify as a meetup?

Yes, a hobby activity can be a meetup. Meetups can be organised around numerous topics, including hobbies and interests. For example, hobbies such as photography, painting, or gardening, you could organise a meetup for other people who share that interest. During the meetup, you could discuss the hobby, share tips and techniques, and even participate in a related activity together. Meetups are a great way for people with similar interests to connect and learn from each other, and they can also be lots of fun.

Ten hobby meetups you can start today. 

1. Book club meetups for readers who want to discuss their favourite books and authors.
2. Photography meetups for people who wish to learn more about photography and share their work with others.
3. Cooking or baking meetups for people who enjoy trying new recipes and sharing their culinary creations.
4. Crafting meetups for people who enjoy making things by hand, such as knitting, quilting, or scrapbooking.
5. Exercise or fitness meetups for people who want to stay active and healthy.
6. Game night meetups for people who enjoy playing board games, card games, or video games.
7. Movie night meetups for people who want to watch and discuss their favourite films.
8. Nature or outdoor meetups for people who enjoy hiking, camping, or exploring the great outdoors.
9. Art or music meetups for people who enjoy creating or appreciating visual or performing arts.
10. Language learning meetups for people who want to practice speaking and learning a new language.

These are a few examples of the many different types of hobby meetups that people might organise. Of course, the popularity of a particular meetup will depend on the attendees’ interests and the event’s location and time.

 

Can I make a living hosting a meetup? 

It is possible to make a living by hosting a meetup, but it will depend on various factors, such as the size and popularity of the meetup, the type of event, and the location. For example, some meetup organisers charge a fee for attendees to participate in their events. If the meetup is popular and well-attended, this can provide a source of income. 

Additionally, some meetup organisers can secure sponsorships or partnerships with businesses that are interested in reaching the meetup’s audience. In these cases, the company may provide financial support or other resources in exchange for exposure to the meetup’s attendees. However, it’s important to note that hosting a meetup is often a labour of love, and many organisers do it as a passion project rather than as a full-time job. As such, it can be challenging to make a living solely from hosting meetups.

How to plan a successful meetup

There are several key steps you can follow to plan a successful meetup:

1. Choose a topic or theme for your meetup that will be interesting and relevant to your target audience. This will help ensure that the meetup is engaging and well-attended.
2. Select a date and time for your meetup that will work for most attendees. Consider the location of the event when choosing a date and time.
3. Choose a location for your meetup that is convenient and accessible for attendees. The place could be a community centre, coffee shop, or office space, depending on the size and type of event you are planning.
4. Create an event page or website for your meetup that provides information about the event, including the date, time, location, and other details attendees need. Use social media and other online platforms to promote your meetup and encourage people to attend.
5. Plan the details of your meetup, including the activities, discussions, or presentations that will take place during the event. Consider the needs and interests of your attendees, and try to create an engaging and interactive experience for them.
6. At the meetup, greet attendees as they arrive, introduce yourself and the event, and provide any necessary instructions or information. Engage with attendees during the event, encouraging them to interact and share their thoughts and ideas.

By following these steps, you can plan a successful meetup that will be enjoyable and informative for attendees.

Summary

Meetups are events where people with a common interest come together to learn, network, or socialise. They can be organised around numerous topics, including hobbies and interests, professional industries, and disciplines. Meetups can be either physical events that take place in a specific location or virtual events that are held online. 

Physical meetups can be a great way to stay active and healthy, while virtual meetups can provide a sense of connection and community. It is possible to make a living by hosting a meetup, but it will depend on the size and popularity of the event, as well as other factors. To plan a successful meetup, choose a relevant and engaging topic, select a convenient date and time, choose an accessible location, and promote the event.

Thank you for coming this far. You may also like our blog on House Party | 5 Simple But Effective Tips