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Case

The Women’s Network Construction

The FrauenNetzwerk Bau brings together dedicated women in the construction industry. From students to construction managers, everyone is represented. The goal of the network is to provide a platform for women in this industry to get to know each other, exchange ideas and help each other. Chech here how they use Socie.

1 October 20245 min read

The“FrauenNetzwerk Bau” is a networking organization for women in construction.
Through Socie, members have a safe place to share experiences, discuss problems and make contacts. We spoke to Konrad Köthke-Toussaint and Katharina Wagenhaus about their experiences with Socie. They run the app together and make sure it stays relevant and continues to grow.

“We wanted to avoid having our dialogue on a large platform where posts and news would get lost among the many other posts. The Socie app gives us a protected space where we can share posts without hundreds of other people reading right along.”

Can you tell me a little more about your community?

The FrauenNetzwerk Bau brings together dedicated women in the construction industry.
From students to construction managers, everyone is represented. The goal of our network is to offer women in this industry a platform where they can get to know each other, exchange ideas and help each other.

Why did you decide to offer an app?

We were looking for a tool that could be easily integrated into everyday life. An app makes it easy to reach everyone. We also wanted to create a channel that was exclusive to our community.

We didn’t want our dialogue to take place on a large platform where posts and news would get lost among the many other voices.The app gives us a shielded place where we can really share without hundreds of other people reading along.

What do you use the app for?

We use the app primarily to inform members about group activities, such as our lunch talks and other events. The app is also set up to connect with other women in the industry.

Although the network is run from Berlin, we want it to be used regionally.
Therefore, we have created groups for each state in which, for example, events specific to the region can be created or information of particular interest to these groups can be shared. In this way, the network can be further structured and the information is even more relevant for individual members.

“We have created groups for each state in which, for example, events specific to the region can be created or information of particular interest to these groups can be shared.”

How was the installation of the app?

Setting up the app was very easy and self-explanatory.
Katharina also participated in the free Socie workshop for administrators.
This allowed us to answer outstanding questions and do even more with the app.

How did the app launch go?

We simply faced the members of our network with the app – we have an internal member database and an email distribution list.
We used these to inform existing members about the new app.
They could then easily register for the app by scanning a QR code.

New members will now receive an email with information about the app right after they register for our community. They can then register right away. About half of the women accept the app. The first to join the network were also the first to accept the app. There is no specific group that is more likely to accept the app – all age groups participate.

We also display the QR code for app registration at our events. So we always add a few members every event.

“The first to join the network were also the first to use the app.
There is no particular group more likely to use the app – all age groups participate.”

What were the initial reactions to the app?

The response has been very positive. We announced the app through the mailing list and the app has been well received as a stand-alone channel. We got a good response from the network itself and now have the opportunity to exchange ideas in a protected space.

Who manages the app?

I (Konrad) mainly manage the app. Katharina is the deputy.

Who uses the Socie app?

The FrauenNetzwerk Bau currently has about 700 members, of which just over 300 women from all age groups use the app.

What are you doing to keep the app relevant?

We regularly post new content, such as new events. We also recently added regional groups where women from each state have their place. We also regularly update images and graphics. This keeps everything current and builds recognition value.

How do you and your members feel about using the app so far?

We love the Socie app. The app gives us new ways to be in touch with each other. We are very happy that the app exists.

What added value does the Socie app offer?

The biggest added value for us is that it provides a protected communication space. Only members of our network are in this environment, and all the posts and updates you see are relevant.
You won’t be distracted by other posts that have nothing to do with the topic.
No one wants to sell a “solve your business problems in 30 days” program, and none of your office mates share their life wisdom in the same feed, as is so often the case on LinkedIn.

What do you think are the most useful features of the app?

The most convenient feature for us is that events can be scheduled with confirmation of attendance. This means that we always know exactly how many participants to expect. In addition, links, documents, etc. related to the event topic can also be linked directly to the event. This way we have all the important information in one place. Thus, we can also add information and documents after the event. This is useful, for example, if questions arise during the event that we can then answer.

“The most useful feature for us is that events can be scheduled with confirmation of participation. (…) In addition, links, documents, etc. related to the subject of the event can also be linked directly to the event. This way we have all the important information in one place.”

What are you doing to attract new members?

When a woman joins the network, she receives an email with an invitation to the app. They cannot join the app without being a member of FrauenNetzwerk Bau.
We also continue to inform members about the app and share the QR code that can be used to join the app, for example at events.

Would you recommend the Socie app to other networking organizations?

If a networking organization is anything like ours, and especially if it is looking for an exclusive space that not everyone has access to, sure.
One of our colleagues is already using the app for his team in the office.
Unlike a Microsoft Teams team, the app really encourages connection with each other, which is a benefit.

“One of our colleagues is actually already using the app for his team in the office.”

Logo des FrauenNetzwerk Bau.
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