Future-Proofing Clubs: Lessons Learned from the 2024 AHG Congress

1. Embrace change: Leaders must combat change fatigue and apathy by embracing the foresight to navigate evolving landscapes effectively. Understanding regulatory changes, demographic shifts, technological advancements and workplace transformations is imperative to stay ahead.
2. Demographic dynamics: With a projected increase in Australia's population from 24 million to 29 million in 2030, as well as growing cultural diversity, it’s important to cater for evolving demographics. Prioritise linguistic and cultural inclusivity to ensure relevance and resonance with diverse communities.
3. Human-centered technology: The integration of AI isn't just additive, it's transformative. Leaders must spearhead organisational change to harness AI's potential effectively, focusing on enhancing customer experiences and driving efficiency gains.
4. Shift to human skills: As technology evolves, so do human skills. From manual to machine learning, clubs must cultivate qualities like kindness, curiosity and creativity alongside technological advancements.
5. Purpose-driven culture: Shifting from a profit-centric to a people-centric approach fosters meaningful connections and purposeful workplaces — 70 per cent of Australian workers say work is where they experience meaningful and regular social connections and community. Prioritising workplace flexibility and social impact can enhance employee engagement and loyalty.
6. Virtuous consumerism: Respond to consumer preferences for local and sustainable products and experiences — 79 per cent of children influence parental decisions to purchase goods that are environmentally friendly. By leveraging social media and digital integration you can appeal to the values of younger generations.
7. Intergenerational connection: With five generations in the workplace, clubs should facilitate mentorship and intergenerational learning opportunities. Bridging generational divides fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment.
8. Community building: Clubs play a vital role in combating social isolation, particularly among younger generations. With 59 per cent of Aussies, 71 per cent of Gen Z and 69 per cent of Gen Y feeling isolated, prioritising community engagement and connection can revitalise club relevance and impact.
9. Financial diversification: With net value from gaming dropping by 2.5 per cent annually, it’s important to think about the future of your club and diversify your profit sources — exploring multi-purpose revenue streams within your club infrastructure, ensuring food offered is not only Instagram worthy, but produces a profit were just some of the considerations heard at the AHGE.
10. Elevate hospitality: The culinary landscape in clubs is evolving and moving beyond stereotypes. Clubs can distinguish themselves through innovative offerings, exceptional service culture, and a focus on quality, consistency and value.
11. Leadership excellence: Effective leadership demands self-awareness, the ability to ask better questions and a willingness to resist inertia. human needs, mastering conversational impact and embracing discomfort are key to driving impactful change. 
12. Overcoming limitations: Stories of resilience emphasise the importance of courage and determination in overcoming limitations. It is important to recognise and challenge limitations while embracing courage, shattering self-imposed barriers, and focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses. Everyone has untapped potential waiting to be unleashed.

The AHG Congress 2024 wasn't just a gathering; it was a call to action.

The strength of an organisation comes from its stories and tradition, but the future of an organisation rests in its relevance and innovation. The future belongs to those who dare to evolve, innovate and lead with purpose.