Old Girls Club Founder Creates Thriving Networking Community for Career-Focused Women

What's Happening?

Mallory Contois, a 35-year-old entrepreneur, has established a successful membership community called Old Girls Club, aimed at career-focused women. The club, which started as a small Slack group, has grown to over 2,300 paying members, generating more than $28,000 monthly. Contois founded the club in January 2022 while serving as the chief operating officer at a startup in Los Angeles. The community provides a space for women in senior roles to share advice and ideas without the pressure of performing. Inspired by the concept of the 'old boys' club,' Contois aims to normalize informal networking among women, encouraging reciprocal support without the need for deep emotional connections.

Why It's Important?

The success of Old Girls Club highlights the demand for networking spaces tailored to women in senior roles, addressing the gap in support systems compared to their male counterparts. By fostering a low-pressure environment, the club empowers women to engage in professional networking without the traditional barriers. This initiative not only supports individual career growth but also challenges existing norms in professional networking, potentially influencing broader workplace culture. The financial success of the club underscores the value placed on such communities, indicating a shift towards more inclusive networking models.

What's Next?

Contois plans to continue bootstrapping the club to maintain its sustainability and control over its direction. The club's growth trajectory suggests potential expansion, possibly incorporating more features or services to enhance member engagement. As the community evolves, it may attract attention from larger organizations interested in supporting women's professional development. The club's model could inspire similar initiatives, promoting a more balanced networking landscape across industries.

Beyond the Headlines

Old Girls Club's approach to networking challenges traditional gender dynamics in professional settings, offering a platform where women can engage without the need for performative interactions. This could lead to long-term shifts in how professional relationships are formed and maintained, encouraging more authentic connections. The club's success may also prompt discussions on the importance of gender-specific networking spaces and their role in achieving workplace equality.