How to Create a Meetup Group

Meetup uses the Web to enable face-to-face communication.

Meetup is a social networking website where people can find others who share similar interests. However, unlike other Web communities, Meetup groups are founded with a particular goal in mind--to meet up in person. Individuals and businesses join and create groups for specific interest groups, such as anime, baking or running. A group message board allows the members to collaboratively plan events, and automatic email notifications provide the details to the entire group. It's easy to start a group on Meetup using their six-step creation wizard. Keep in mind that group organizers are charged a fee to cover the cost of hosting the group pages.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Paper
• Credit/Debit card

Instructions

1. Log in to Meetup (see "Resources").

2. Click "Start A Meetup Group" at the top of the page.

3. Enter your regional information and group details. Include location and interest in the group title. For example, "The Austin Football Lovers' Meetup Group." Write the purpose, goals and group history in the "Group Description" field. Press "Next" at the bottom of the page.

4. Select a theme. Click "Make Your Own Theme" to change elements of the color scheme or select your own background image. Confirm by pressing "Next."

5. Type keyword concept phrases to enable users to find your group. Choose words that target the interest groups you want to join, such as "Cat lovers," "Adventurers" or "Activists." Select existing phrases from the tag cloud in the right panel by clicking "Add As Topic." Click "Next."

6. Select a payment plan. Enter your credit or debit card information and billing address into the form.

7. Verify payment details by clicking "Confirm."

Tips & Warnings

• Spread out the cost of group membership by charging a fee. Fees may be collected in-person or through PayPal.

• Edit group details from the "Group Settings" menu under the "Group Tools" tab. You must be logged in to access this page.

• Pressing "Confirm" will initiate a charge to your card. Do not press confirm if you are not sure you wish to create a new group.

References

• Meetup: Is There a Charge to Join Meetup
• Meetup: How Can I Start a New Meetup Group
• Meetup: The Basics

Resources

• Meetup: Create a Meetup Account