How to Engage More Young People To Join your Club
Many clubs in the UK and around the world are facing a common challenge: their members are getting older. If most of your members are aged 70 or older, that means there’s a limit to how long they’ll be able to stay active in the club.
Many clubs in the UK and around the world are facing a common challenge: their members are getting older. If most of your members are aged 70 or older, that means there’s a limit to how long they’ll be able to stay active in the club. To keep your club vibrant and thriving for years to come, it’s time to start involving younger people.
So that’s why I can give you a real insight into how the younger generation thinks.
Use technology to reach younger members
Young people love their technology—and that’s a great thing for clubs. I’m writing this on my laptop, with a smartphone in my hand, a smartwatch on my wrist, and music playing from a smart speaker on the other side of the room.
If you want to attract younger members, you need to use two main tools:
1. Social media to grab their attention.
2. A good website and mobile app to keep their interest.
Social media: Use social media to suit young people's interests
Older generations love Facebook, but young people spend more time on Instagram. If you're serious about adding new members, create accounts on those platforms and regularly post content that shows what your club does.
Even though Facebook isn't as popular with young people, it still has value, especially public groups. Many clubs make the mistake of using private groups that no one outside the club can see. A public Facebook group acts as a "free trial" for your club. People can see your activities, events, and members having fun, and they may decide to join.
Remember: if they can't find you online, they probably won't bother looking further.
Young people are used to fast, well-designed websites. If your site is slow or outdated, they'll probably click away in a few seconds. It's not personal - it's just what they're used to.
They also expect to do everything online: learn about your club, sign up, and register for events - ideally all from their phone. Whether they're on the sofa watching Netflix or scrolling on the toilet (let's be honest), they want to do it quickly and easily.
Make your club more affordable and flexible
You don't need to cut your membership prices - in fact, they may even need to be increased. But you can make it easier for young people to join by offering a variety of activities.
Consider planning events that aren’t too expensive or equipment-heavy. For example, a club that goes to the best pub in Oxford for social meet-ups is likely to be more welcoming to a younger crowd than an expensive or special needs club.
Younger generations care deeply about social issues such as climate change, diversity, and equality. Showing that your club supports these values can make a big difference.
This doesn’t mean changing everything you do—just be open about the causes you support. Highlight any charity events you have, environmental efforts, or inclusive policies. This builds trust and shows that you care about more than just membership numbers.
Final Thoughts: Plan For The Future
Involving younger members in your club is the best way to ensure it has a bright future. But it’s not just about age—it’s about adapting to the way young people live, connect, and spend their time.
• Make your club visible online.
• Offer simple ways to join and participate.
• Show that your club is modern, welcoming, and values-driven.
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