Hang out where the rich hang out, and you may become one of them

Ever wondered where do millionaires and billionaires of the world network? Many of them may be patronising Facebook and Orkuts of the world, but many others have `exclusive social networks’ that are open strictly by invitation.

Welcome to the social networking for the elite and creame da creame of the society. These myspaces of the rich provide them with a platform where they can flirt, swap advice, plan parties and find new pals without mixing with the commoners.

While some of these networks have a rigorous application process based on education, job title and many more must-haves, others, such as Squa.re and Quintessentially are relatively lenient.

Here’s looking into the exclusive social networks.

1.) aSmallWorld is an exclusive social networking site launched in 2004 by former Lehman Brothers banker Erik Wachtmeister.

With 320,000 members globally, the site was termed `MySpace for millionaires’ by Wall Street Journal.

Strictly by invitation only, the social networking site members don’t have to pay any entry fee. Newcomers are inducted on the basis of education, profession and most important, their network of personal contacts. If you don’t know a member with invite powers, you’re out of luck.

Once invited to join the network, a member can browse the market guide, surf the luxury-travel guide and global-event guide, or participate in forum discussions — one of the site’s most active and popular features.

Members can interact with like-minded individuals who share the same circle of friends, interests, and schedules. Members range from entrepreneurial and business opinion makers to leaders in media, entertainment, fashion, art and sports.

Most of the websites content is produced by the members only who offer travel suggestions, feedback, lively forum discussions, and other topics of common interest.

2.) Diamond Lounge is one of the most exclusive sites with small membership. The site claims to be a luxury online space aimed at those who want a sophisticated and classy alternative to the standard online dating and social networking websites.

As for membership, “Our members are eligible, professional individuals who appreciate the benefits of an exclusive and private environment where they can date and socialize with like minded people.”

According to owner Arya Marafie, DiamondLounge.com focuses mainly on dating and fun, just like an exclusive online club.

However, according to him, being wealthy won’t automatically get one in the door. The person also needs to be interesting and bring something to the table.

The average age of members is between 35 to 40, significantly older than MySpace or Facebook. The signup process is easy and people can create profiles free of charge. Potential club members can apply online and will be accepted or declined based on what they do and whom they know. Members have to pay a $50 monthly fee.

The company claims that it spends a tremendous amount of time making sure that they select the right club members, because these are the people who will invite the next group.

3.) LuxuryRatings.com. One of the youngest social network for the mega rich, LuxuryRatings.com is a free members-only ratings site for consumers who seek and enjoy luxury brand `experiences’.

Started by Luxury Institute, the site offers access to member ratings of several different types of service providers, from wealth advisers to art dealers to yacht brokers.

The company claims that LuxuryRatings.com is not as chatty and crowed as the popular networking sites. It is mainly a network of member-generated ratings for brands and the people behind them.

Members need to have a minimum net worth of $3 million.

4.) Squa.re is a community-generated TV site dedicated to luxury, style and hi-fashion. The Squa.re website features a range of channels to watch from high living, to nightlife to style and luxury travel.

The site features a wide range of channels to watch and enjoy, centered around four verticals: high living, nightlife, style and escape.

To get into Squa.re one must receive an invitation from an existing member. Alternatively, if a user feels he has appropriate content to showcase on the website, he can also contact the Square team directly.

Members of Squa.re can also upload their own videos and photos and create their own channel for others to view. Every video or photograph uploaded by a member is first approved by the Squa.re staff for quality and class.

5.) Quintessentially is a luxury-lifestyle concierge service started by Prince Charles’s nephew. This private members club with a 24-hour global concierge service has offices in almost every major city worldwide.

Membership to Quintessentially is strictly limited, and you can apply online through their website. If the application is successful, the user will receive full information along with his membership card.

The membership card entails a variety of benefits right from travel, music, art, food, drink, hotels, clubs, spas and restaurants.

Members can also enjoy exclusive services like getting front row seats at fashion shows, find presents in a hurry, attend VIP after-parties, get dinner reservations, go to film premieres, book theater tickets, charter yachts and go to charity galas. Most of the Quintessentially services and offers can be accessed online.

There are different levels of Quintessentially membership. The general membership provides the full range of Quintessentially services and benefits 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The Elite memberships are available by invitation only.

[impactlab]