After completing his education in the US, Aaron Lee, a full-time serial entrepreneur and part-time boxer, returned to Hong Kong and faced challenges as an expat in finding affordable accommodation due to limited options and high rents with inflexible leasing terms. Feeling lonely without friends in a flat in HK, he decided to establish Dash Living, a home-sharing platform that now covers over 1,200 units in Hong Kong and Singapore.
Dash Living not only addresses accommodation issues for millennials like Lee but also tackles the challenge of finding affordable, all-inclusive premium living spaces for young working professionals.
With a focus on community, Dash Living has amassed over 13,000 followers on social media platforms.
“Building a community is crucial for startups,” Lee stated. “Having like-minded people around amplifies and nurtures a company’s message and culture, aiding in its growth.”
In an interview with e27, Lee discusses how Dash Living established one of the largest co-living communities.
Also Read: Dash Living acquires Singapore’s coliving company Easycity, expands to the Asia Pacific
Establishing a dedicated community team is vital for startups facing challenges in community hiring and organic growth. Dash Living’s team comprises community experts with hospitality industry experience, engaging with tenants daily to better understand their needs.
Lee emphasizes a lean team structure where all employees, including founders and senior leaders, are viewed as equals to foster growth and new ideas.
Understanding clients is essential for businesses, and Dash Living prioritizes gaining deep insights into tenants’ backgrounds and interests through regular surveys before check-in. The team also provides instant assistance beyond co-living matters.
Creating a user-driven community, Dash Living focuses on user-generated content, engagement, and events after engaging with tenants through various touchpoints. The platform allows members to initiate and host events, showcasing these on Dash Insider.
Being responsive is key for Dash Living’s community team, offering features like in-app messaging for streamlined communication. The team quickly responds to queries from tenants across HK and Singapore.
Offering unique perks like free gym services and discounts with vendors, Dash Living aims to provide exclusive benefits to its tenants. The team also organizes events and explores partnerships for added perks.
Hosting events is a key aspect of community building, with Dash Living previously hosting monthly events like bakery workshops. The team also assists tenants in organizing events, fostering a sense of community.
Transitioning to online events post-pandemic, Dash Living continues to engage with tenants through virtual sessions focused on health and fitness.
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Image Credit: Dash Living
This article was first published on March 16, 2021
The post How Dash Living built a social media community of 13K+ members for its co-living platform across Singapore, HK appeared first on e27.