Business
Started in 2006 as a group for expat mothers looking to arrange playdates for their children, Shanghai Mamas today is a diverse online community with over 4000 members from across the globe, providing peer to peer recommendations and advice on all things to do with living in Shanghai. Run by a committee of volunteer members, this grassroots, non-profit community allows members to connect with each other through forums, Facebook and WeChat groups and weekly coffee mornings across the city. With advice on everything from residential neighbourhoods to schools, and specific feedback given by international families already living in Shanghai, the website provides assistance and support to help expats thrive in China. Adam talks to Lisa, a seasoned expat with experience living in 10 locations who relocated to Shanghai with her family 3 months ago, and Jenny, who has been living in Shanghai since 2008 and is a senior member of Shanghai Mamas. Jenny and Lisa discuss how new technologies such as mobile payment apps and online shopping have made life in China much easier than it ever previously was, as well as the power of social media to help stay connected to those at home. They then go on to talk about empathy, and Jenny and Lisa explain the processes put in place to help newcomers navigate the new city, as well as the importance of working with trusted brands and sponsors. Finally, the three discuss how DSPs can further assist with organisations such as Shanghai Mamas, including the importance of one-to-one contact with established expats, and how providing a personalised service is essential to the expat experience.