Working on your Soho House application? I don’t blame you – with more exciting venues opening across the world in 2024, there’s never been a better time to gain Soho House membership.
Fancy a taste of the tropics by enjoying the rooftop pool at London’s Shoreditch House this summer? Or, simply want to mingle with likeminded creatives while sipping on picantes while visiting a Soho House location overseas? Who doesn’t!? Unfortunately, Soho House application isn’t always successful for everyone, and it’s really important to know what to include on your application in order to get it right. In this guide, I share my own experiences of the Soho House application to increase your chances of getting approved, as well as what NOT to do when applying for membership in 2024.
Fancy bringing a bit of Soho House home with you? Grab the Soho House book, Eat Drink Nap, for your coffee table or for a loved one.
Is it hard to get accepted by Soho House?
Let’s be honest – it wouldn’t be a members’ club if it wasn’t selective and a little competitive. Soho House is all about being part of an exclusive membership that if focused on its creative community. Of course, the difficulty of having your application accepted will depend on your location and the membership tier you’re after. That said, it’s certainly not impossible to have your Soho House application approved. In fact, the most tricky bit is likely the waiting list and the time taken to have your application reviewed. Here are some of the factors that will affect how difficult it is to have your application approved:
- The Membership tier. Soho House has a number of different membership tiers with different accesses and benefits. A full Soho House membership is more difficult to obtain than a Soho Friends membership, for instance, with more stringent criteria and a more extensive review process.
- Professional and creative achievements. Soho House is a creative hub, and so naturally the selection process places value on individuals who have made notable contributions to their respective fields, be that in the arts, media, or creative industries. Having a strong professional or creative background will only add to your chances of having your Soho House application approved.
- Community contribution. Soho House looks for members who actively contribute to the creative community, and someone who will bring value should they be awarded a membership. Involvement in cultural, artistic, or philanthropic activities can really help to make your application stand out.
- Connections and recommendations. Soho House membership requires references. Having connections within the Soho House community or securing recommendations from existing members is required as part of the acceptance process.
- Personalisation of your application. Tailoring your application to reflect why Soho House is the right fit for you and expressing a genuine passion for the arts, culture, and community engagement is really crucial, so I’d make sure you work on crafting this section of the application accordingly.
- Interview process. If your application progresses, you might be invited for an interview. This is an opportunity for Soho House to get to know you better and assess your alignment with their values and community, so it’s a good idea to research this thoroughly.
It’s important to note that while the process is competitive, Soho House is also interested in diversity and a mix of talents within its membership. Each House may have its own unique culture and criteria, so what works in one location might differ from another – I recommend keeping this in mind, and doing your research accordingly!
How to approach your Soho House application
So, where to start with your Soho House application? Thee’s no denying that as we step into 2024, the application process has evolved somewhat, requiring a strategic approach. Here are the steps I took when I approached my own Soho House application and was successfully accepted last year.
Research Soho House
To improve your chances of acceptance, I really, really recommend thoroughly researching the specific House you’re interested in. This will help you to get to know its culture, and present a compelling case for why you’d be a strong addition to the Soho House community. I made sure to secure a guest pass to my chosen House before applying, to get a feel for it and to understand what Soho House is looking for. Tailoring your application to align with the specific House you’re interested in can make a significant difference.
Choose the right membership tier for you
A key exercise before started your application is to understand the different membership tiers (I lay these out in my ultimate Soho House membership guide), the amenities offered, and the unique culture of each location. You might find that you don’t require the full membership, and something like Soho Friends or Cities Without Houses might be more tailored to your needs. Don’t forget, if you’re under 27, you can apply for the Under 27 membership for a discounted rate. Each level of membership has its own perks and privileges, so it’s important to pick the right level for your lifestyle.
Write a compelling case
The application process is a real chance for you to showcase your professional and creative achievements. It’s really key to ensure your Soho House application reflects your accomplishments, interests, and contributions to your respective industry. Include a well-curated portfolio or resume that highlights your unique skillset and experience. I spent some time thinking this through, and made notes based on my CV and experience.
Personalise your application
Don’t underestimate the power of personalisation. At the end of the day, we’re all different and can bring our own bit of magic to the mix. Tailor your application to reflect why Soho House is the perfect fit for you, and more importantly, what you can do for the community. Highlight your passion for art, culture, and community engagement, too. I really thought about why I wanted membership, and I think my passion really shined through in my application.
Cultivate recommendations
A key component of the Soho House application is to seek out recommendations from existing members. You’ll need to build connections within the Soho House community if you haven’t already in order to seek their endorsement. A well-placed recommendation can really bolster your application. I was lucky and had a few friends who could help. If you don’t know any Soho House members, I’d recommend beginning with a different membership tier like Soho Friends to get you started and begin mixing with members.
Stay updated with Soho House events
Another tip I have is to demonstrate your awareness of and interest in Soho House events and initiatives. It helps to show you’re already really aligned with the House’s values, and can reinforce your commitment to being an engaged member. Follow House happenings and, wherever relevant, express your excitement about upcoming events in your application.
Navigating the Soho House application process requires a strategic mix of professional skills, personalisation, and a genuine passion for the arts and culture. By carefully crafting your application, showcasing your unique skills and qualities, and aligning yourself with the core values of Soho House, you can increase your chances of joining the exclusive community in 2024.
Tips for your Soho House Application
Here are some further tips and tricks I’d recommend including as part of your Soho House application:
- Show your enthusiasm. I always think it’s good to show the reasons why you’re excited to join. Being real speaks volumes and your passion will come across in your application. I really honed in on why I wanted to be a part of the creative community, both professionally and socially.
- Get networking. Ideally you’ll have a few references you can lean on to enhance your application. It’s essential you actually know the people you use as references, as they’ll be contacted to validate they do indeed know you and can verify you’ll be a good fit as a member.
- Think about the reasons why you want to join. Is it just to visit one house? Or for the community? Soho House membership isn’t cheap, so you want to make sure you’ll get the best use from your membership. I really recommend running through my guide to Soho House membership to make sure you’re choosing the right tier of membership for your needs.
- Review your socials. You’re able to add your social channels to your Soho House application, so I’d carefully review how you present yourself. I wanted to increase my chances of having my application accepted, so I included my socials which heavily feature my passion for travel and also my career. I feel like this demonstrated how my personality and interests align with Soho House’s culture.
Best of luck on your Soho House journey – and let me know how you get on!
Soho House application: FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions I’m asked about the Soho House application process:
What do you write in a Soho House application?
Writing a strong Soho House application involves showcasing your unique qualities, professional achievements, and alignment with the club’s cultural values. Here’s a guide on some things to include in your Soho House application, although I’d recommend keeping it relatively concise:
- An introduction – start with an engaging introduction. Briefly introduce yourself, your background, and your primary areas of professional or creative focus.
- Professional achievements – highlight any notable achievements in your industry or creative field. Showcase projects, awards, or collaborations that demonstrate your expertise and contribution.
- Passion for the arts and culture – express your genuine passion for the arts, culture, and creative endeavours. Share how your interests align with Soho House’s community.
- Community engagement – emphasise your involvement in cultural, philanthropic, or community activities. Show that you actively contribute to the communities around you, as well as how you could contribute to the Soho House community, whether through events or collaborations.
- Why Soho House – clearly articulate why you want to join Soho House. Explain how the club’s atmosphere and values resonate with your personal and professional aspirations.
- Personalisation – personalise your application by referring to specific aspects of the Soho House location you are applying to. Mention any unique features, events, or cultural nuances that attract you to that particular House.
- Connections and recommendations – if you have connections within the Soho House community, it doesn’t hurt to mention them in a respectful manner.
- Future aspirations – you might want to touch upon your future aspirations and how being a Soho House member aligns with your long-term goals.
- Closing statement – conclude your application with a concise summary, reiterating your enthusiasm for joining Soho House and contributing to its vibrant community.
These are just a few tips that I think helped me and my Soho House application! Remember to keep your application concise, focused, and authentic – no one wants to read through paragraphs of information. Tailor your responses to reflect your personality and professional journey while aligning with the ethos of Soho House.
How long does the Soho House application take to complete?
Soho House says the application will take you around 15 minutes, although I know from experience mine took longer. I’d say it will range from around 30 minutes to an hour, as I really took the time to consider my answers and proofread. The length of time needed will vary based on the level of detail you provide in response to questions about your professional background, achievements, and interests. While I’d recommend investing the necessary time to present a thoughtful and comprehensive application that reflects your unique qualities and aligns with the club’s cultural values, I wouldn’t overdo it!
Is Soho House accepting new members?
Interestingly enough, Soho House has become so popular as of late that it’s no longer admitting new members to access its clubs in London, New York, and Los Angeles. This is due to complaints of overcrowding. If you still want Soho House membership, I’d advise looking at nearby houses (for those based in the UK, do note that Manchester is soon welcoming its very own Soho House), or hold tight until applications are once again being reviewed in these cities. Soho House periodically evaluates and adjusts its membership availability based on the capacity and demand for each location. I recommend checking directly with Soho House for the most up-to-date information on membership availability and application status.
What does Soho House look for in members?
I’d say there are a few key things that Soho House looks for in its members. Specific criteria might vary slightly between locations, but on the whole, I’d say the following:
- Professional and creative achievements in your respective creative industry
- Passion for the arts and culture
- Community engagement, both locally and globally
- Networking and collaboration within the community
- Cultural fit
- Positive contribution to the club’s vibrant and exclusive atmosphere
- Interest in Soho House events
It’s important to note that Soho House wants to maintain an exclusive and curated community, and the selection process can be selective. The specific criteria may also vary based on the location and membership level. If you’re submitting a Soho House application, it’s advisable to thoroughly research the specific house you’re interested in and tailor your application to highlight how you align with the club’s values and culture.
How often does Soho House review applications?
Soho House say they review applications once a quarter. Of course, the time taken to review your individual application may depend on factors including the volume of applications they’re receiving, the Soho House location you’re looking to join, and the tier of membership.
Why do people get Soho House membership?
There are SO many reasons why you might fancy Soho House membership. Here’s why I applied:
- Gorgeous facilities – Soho House has so many luxurious amenities in a bunch of beautiful properties around the world. As I travel so much, I love visiting while in a new destination. The coworking spaces, stylish lounges, restaurants, and rooftop pools are all my favourite features.
- The community – I love being able to mingle with an exclusive and curated community of likeminded professionals and creatives.
- The creative vibe – I really like Soho House’s dynamic environment, where you can access spaces designed for collaboration and creativity.
- Global access – Soho House membership allows you to access houses around the world, perfect if like me you travel a lot or have overseas clients.
Those are my tips on how to get your Soho House application approved for 2024. Good luck, I hope this makes the process a little easier for you!
