Member engagement is one of the leading topics when it comes to association management in the last years.
As we move into the last quarter of 2015 it might be a good time for your association to evaluate what was accomplished in 2015 and what challenges lie ahead in 2016. And thus, one main concern may be the status of your membership management. Is it robust and growing, or has it become stagnant? You will want to look at what you are doing currently and what can be improved moving forward.
If you have a strong dues-paying membership that is growing, chances are you have been successfully engaging with members on a regular basis. If, on the other hand your membership has been stagnant or worse, then you will want to take a look at why. Could it be that those in management are not communicating effectively with members and/or meeting their needs?
Related: Effective Conference Cash-Flow Management
In the current climate where social media is playing such a big role in the everyday lives of so many people, member engagement is critical to the success of any organisation. At the end of the day, it is a matter of building genuine relationships by connecting with your members. You must have something tangible to offer them in terms of products, education, programs and/or services. These are not things that association management should define, but what the actual members need and want from their association, what they determine has value.
What can you do to grow your membership in the following year? Start by reaching out and listening to your membership regarding their needs. Create opportunities for member engagement via multiple channels, including online. Immediately involve new members, putting their talents to work on various committees. Create compelling events where members can volunteer, network with other members, and at the same time gain valuable tools and information.
Related: Meeting Management: How to Organise a Conference with Roles Defined
Between now and the end of the year plan a membership drive. Create incentives for existing members to invite friends and associates to events. Be vocal about the actual benefits offered by joining and remember these must be real and tangible. Stay connected by creating ongoing opportunities that all members can enjoy and actively engage in.
Also stay connected with this Blog as we will elaborate valuable tips and tricks for member engagement throughout the following month.
