As AI tools and remote work redefine professional life, one man is on a mission to bring back face-to-face networking, which all but stopped during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Daniel Hakim is the CEO and founder of CUB (Club of United Business), which operates popular Business Clubs in Sydney and Melbourne, and has recently opened in Brisbane. In a world dominated by virtual meetings and digital communication, CUB is calling on the business owners of Australia to reconnect, rebuild relationships, and rediscover the transformative power of face-to-face networking.

While the pandemic normalised remote work, many professionals felt isolated and disconnected. Although technology offers convenience, studies show it limits critical relationship-building skills, such as empathy and emotional expressiveness. As hybrid work becomes standard practice across industries, Mr Hakim believes it is essential to reintroduce professionals to the trust, creativity, and spontaneity that only in-person interactions can provide.

“The way we work may have evolved, but the need for human connection remains constant,” said Daniel Hakim, founder and CEO of CUB.

“AI tools and virtual meetings are convenient, but nothing can replace the trust and energy from face-to-face conversations. With professionals struggling to stay connected, it’s time to step away from our screens and rediscover the magic of personal interaction.”

“The members all tell me that face-to-face networking is more meaningful, valuable and enriching because it fosters genuine connections and allows for the organic exchange of ideas that digital interactions simply can’t replicate.”

“Studies have shown that without face-to-face business dealings, economic benefits are diminished. So networking is not only good for the soul, but it’s good for business as well.”

Rediscovering Lost Skills

While AI and remote work offer many benefits, screen-based interactions often feel transactional and lack the richness of physical presence. According to Scott Taylor, a leading expert in body language, rebuilding emotional awareness is essential: “AI helps us work efficiently, but it can’t replicate the nuances of eye contact, tone of voice, or body language. Professionals need to relearn how to read non-verbal cues, engage in impromptu conversations, and foster emotional awareness - skills that are at risk of fading in today’s digital-first world."

CUB: Reconnecting Professionals One Conversation at a Time

The hybrid model is here to stay, but CUB believes that the most innovative ideas and valuable partnerships arise from spontaneous in-person exchanges. Whether it’s a handshake at a business event, a casual coffee chat, or an unplanned encounter at one of CUB’s Clubhouses, these moments of connection spark ideas and drive collaboration.

“The best ideas rarely happen in isolation,” Hakim explained. “They emerge through face-to-face conversations that inspire creativity and build trust. At CUB, we create the opportunities where these moments can thrive.”

“The future belongs to those who can integrate the efficiency of technology with the authenticity of personal interactions,” Hakim said. “We’re excited to lead the way in helping professionals master this balance and unlock new opportunities.”