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An online community can be a valuable resource for associations, providing a platform for members to connect, collaborate, and engage with the organisation. Here are seven ways to build a successful online community for your association:Clearly define the purpose and goals of the community.Before launching an online community, it’s important to define its purpose and goals. This could include creating a space for members to share resources and knowledge, fostering a sense of community and connection, or providing a platform for members to engage with the association and its leadership.Invite and onboard new members.Invite members to join the community and provide a clear onboarding process to help them get started. This could include an orientation video or tutorial, a welcome message or guide, and an introduction to the community’s guidelines and expectations.Encourage participation.Encourage members to actively participate in the community by posting content, asking questions, and engaging with others. This could include hosting weekly discussion topics, hosting live events or webinars, or providing incentives for participation such as prizes or recognition.Moderate and manage the community.It’s important to have a team in place to moderate and manage the community, including enforcing guidelines and addressing any issues that may arise. This can help create a safe and welcoming environment for all members.Foster a sense of community.Encourage a sense of community by promoting social connections and creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. This could include hosting virtual social events or providing opportunities for members to connect with each other based on shared interests or professional goals.Keep the content fresh and relevant.Keep the community active and engaged by regularly posting new content and updating existing content to ensure it remains relevant and useful. This could include sharing industry news and updates, hosting expert guest speakers, or highlighting member achievements and success stories.Engage with members.Make sure to regularly engage with members and respond to their questions and feedback. This can help build trust and strengthen the relationship between the association and its members.By following these seven steps, you can build a successful online community for your association. From clearly defining the purpose and goals of the community to fostering a sense of community and keeping the content fresh and relevant, there are many ways to create an engaging and valuable online space for your members.If you would like an online community for your association, take a look at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.trybz.com.au/" data-mce-href="http://www.trybz.com.au/">Trybz</a>.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.trybz.com.au/" data-mce-href="http://www.trybz.com.au/">Trybz</a>&nbsp;in an online community platform specifically designed for associations. To see it in action, check out the&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.answer.net.au/" data-mce-href="http://www.answer.net.au/">Answers for Associations</a>&nbsp;online community for association professionals.

Increasing Online Community Engagement in Your Association

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Sponsorship can be a valuable source of funding for associations and having the skills to approach and secure sponsors is crucial for the success of the organisation. Sponsorship revenue can help support the association’s programs and events, and can also provide valuable opportunities for brand exposure and partnerships. However, approaching prospective sponsors can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t have a pre-existing relationship with them. Here are some tips for approaching prospective sponsors “cold”:Research the company.Before reaching out to a company, be sure to research their business and values to ensure that they align with those of your association. For example, if you are seeking sponsorship for a conference on sustainable business practices, it would be a good idea to approach companies with a strong focus on sustainability.Personalise your approach.Instead of sending a generic sponsorship proposal to multiple companies, tailor your pitch to the specific company and their goals. This could include highlighting how your event or program aligns with their business objectives or values. For example, if a company has a goal of increasing brand awareness among young professionals, you could emphasise how your event targets this demographic in your proposal.Offer value.Sponsors want to know what they will get in return for their investment, so be sure to clearly outline the benefits for the company. This could include exposure to a targeted audience, brand recognition, or the opportunity to align with the values of your association. For example, you could offer the company a prominent logo placement on event signage or the opportunity to host a workshop at the event.Network and leverage connections.Utilise your personal and professional networks to see if anyone has a connection to the company you are targeting. This can provide an introduction and make it easier to get your foot in the door.Use social media.Social media platforms can be a useful tool for reaching out to prospective sponsors. Follow the company on social media and engage with their content to get on their radar. You could also consider running sponsored social media posts targeting the company’s audience to showcase the value of partnering with your association.Follow up.Don’t be afraid to follow up with a prospective sponsor if you don’t hear back from them initially. A friendly reminder email or phone call could be just what they need to reconsider your proposal. Be sure to keep track of your communication and the status of your proposal to ensure that you are following up at appropriate intervals.Be prepared for rejection.It’s important to remember that not every company will be a good fit for sponsorship, and that’s okay. Don’t take rejection personally and continue to pursue other potential sponsors. Keep track of your outreach efforts and use this information to refine your approach for future proposals.By following these tips, you can effectively approach prospective sponsors “cold” and increase your chances of securing a partnership.If you are looking for support to optimise your partnership programs, please contact Julian Moore from SMS at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:julian@smsonline.net.au" data-mce-href="mailto:julian@smsonline.net.au">julian@smsonline.net.au</a>.&nbsp;

Tips for Approaching “Cold” Prospective Sponsors for Your Association

Associations have played a significant role in connecting people for thousands of years. From hunter-gatherer societies to modern professional organisations, associations have taken many forms and have had a profound impact on society. In recent years, rapid changes in technology, economics, and culture have necessitated a transformation in the way associations operate, and the COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this shift.One of the most fundamental changes many associations are considering is their membership model. An association membership model is the foundation of an organisation, underpinning all aspects of its operations. It is essential that this model is the result of careful consideration and aligns with the purpose and goals of the association. The includes consideration of the following elements:Association PurposeAn association is a group of people who come together to achieve a shared goal. Its primary function is to work towards this goal, rather than to attract and retain members. A clear and defined purpose is essential for guiding the actions and decisions of the association, as well as for measuring success and navigating through changes. To ensure that the association is aligned and motivated towards its purpose, it is important to define its vision, mission, and values. The vision is the desired outcome or impact that the association hopes to achieve. The mission describes the actions and services that the association provides to achieve its vision. The purpose is the reason behind these actions and serves as the driving force for the association. The values are the core beliefs that guide and motivate the association and its members.Association Type and StructureThe type and structure of association will influence the membership model. There are various types of associations that can be classified based on their goals and objective such as philanthropic foundations, environmental and animal protection organisations, hospitals and health services, social services, religious groups, international aid organisations, educational institutions, cultural and recreational clubs, advocacy and political organisations, business and professional associations, and labour unions. Within each of these categories, there are subcategories that further classify the association based on specific characteristics. The&nbsp;structure&nbsp;of an association, whether it is a single entity operating nationally or internationally, or a federation of independent organisations, will also impact the development of its membership model.Who the Association ServesIt is important to identify the specific individuals and businesses that an association should focus on serving and engaging with, rather than simply attempting to attract as many members as possible. A clear understanding of the purpose of the association can help to clarify which groups are most important and should be prioritised.There are five types of stakeholders that an association may interact with: those it exists to serve, those it engages with to further its purpose, customers who purchase its products and services, those who are targeted as part of a specific campaign, and vendors who provide products and services to the association’s community (stakeholders will fit into only one of these groups).To determine whether an association is serving or engaging with a particular group, it is helpful to consider whether members of that group should have a governing role in the association. If the answer is “yes” that group is more likely to fall into the cohort of members you serve.How the Association ServesIt is important for associations to carefully consider their activities and prioritise those that will have the greatest impact on achieving their purpose. This can help to avoid wasting resources on activities that are not aligned with the current goals of the organisation. There are five main ways in which associations can serve their stakeholders: representing the interests of the group to external parties, mobilising people or organisations to take action towards a specific objective, providing products, services, and other resources to assist stakeholders in achieving their own goals, creating opportunities for participation and excellence, and fostering a sense of community and connection among members. The choice of functions that an association undertakes can have a significant impact on all aspects of the organisation, and it is important to make these decisions intentionally rather than simply continuing with activities that have been conducted in the past.&nbsp;How the Association engages with stakeholders.An association’s engagement model outlines the way it communicates and engages with its members and stakeholders. To effectively develop this model, it is important to understand the current and ideal methods of engagement delivery and the gap between the two. This includes considering the type of engagement tools being used, such as traditional, modern, or online methods, as well as the association’s ability to effectively utilise these tools, ranging from developing to advanced. It is at this state that an association would consider the role of chapters, special interest groups, and components in achieving the purpose of the association.How to make the model financially sustainableThe association’s financial sustainability is critical to its long-term success. The full range of revenue streams, of which membership is only one, should be carefully considered to ensure they align with the other elements of the membership model. Factors that will impact this decision include current reliance on membership fees, cost of delivering the membership program, whether fees are appropriate for all membership categories, current capacity to execute the ideal state revenue streams, and resources available for change.A final note – the difference between a membership fee and a membership category review.It is important to note there are two main types of membership reviews: membership model reviews and membership category reviews. A membership category review involves finding a better way to structure existing membership categories to offer value to different market segments, while a membership model review involves examining the entire membership model to ensure it aligns with the association’s purpose and meets the needs of its members.Undertaking a membership model review can be a complex process, but it is essential for the long-term success and sustainability of an association. By adapting to changing circumstances and staying relevant, associations can continue to make a meaningful impact on society.If you are looking for support to maximise the success of your membership program we can assist. Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:%20belinda@smsonline.net.au" data-mce-href="mailto:%20belinda@smsonline.net.au">Belinda Moore</a>&nbsp;for more information.

The Key Elements of An Association Membership Model

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Data and analytics are becoming increasingly important for associations as they seek to make informed decisions and drive the success of their organisation. Here are seven trends in association data and analytics that you should be aware of:Big dataThe volume of data being generated by organisations is increasing at an exponential rate, and associations are no exception. For example, an association may have data on its members, events, finances, and operations. Utilising big data analytics tools can help you make sense of this large amount of information and extract valuable insights.Artificial intelligence and machine learning.These technologies can be used to analyse data and identify patterns that may not be immediately apparent to humans. For example, you could use machine learning to predict the likelihood of a member renewing their membership or to recommend content or events to them based on their past behaviour.Data visualisation.Visualising data in the form of charts, graphs, and maps can help make it more understandable and easier to communicate to others. Using data visualisation tools can help you create visually appealing and informative representations of your data.Cloud-based data storage and processing.Storing and processing data in the cloud can provide numerous benefits for associations, including increased security, scalability, and accessibility.Data governance.Data governance refers to the policies and practices that organisations put in place to ensure that data is collected, stored, and used ethically and responsibly. As data becomes increasingly important, it’s crucial to have a clear set of guidelines and policies in place to ensure that it is collected, stored, and used ethically and responsibly.Data-driven decision makingInstead of relying solely on gut instincts or past experience, using data to inform decision making can help your association make more informed and accurate choices. For example, an association may use data analytics to identify patterns in membership renewal rates and use that information to create targeted retention campaigns.Integration of data from multiple sourcesIn today’s digital age, associations often have data coming from a variety of sources, such as membership databases, social media, and event registration systems. Integrating this data can provide a more complete and accurate picture of your organisation and its members.By keeping up with these trends in association data and analytics, you can stay ahead of the curve and make data-driven decisions that drive the success of your organisation. From big data and artificial intelligence to data governance and integration, there are many ways to leverage data and analytics to improve your association.If you would like to connect with other Association Professionals and Industry experts to discuss association specific topics – just like this one – take a look at the&nbsp;<a href="https://comms.smsonline.net.au/ch/93441/1n2c4/3/FrsvnCuPPpte1Jy0MVHLU2DIl6hCGEjTcjEfUv1E.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-mce-href="https://comms.smsonline.net.au/ch/93441/1n2c4/3/FrsvnCuPPpte1Jy0MVHLU2DIl6hCGEjTcjEfUv1E.html">Answers for Associations</a>&nbsp;online community. The Answers community is a place where peers can connect and discuss sector related topics, share ideas, experiences, and resources, explore opportunities, and more.

Empower Your Association with Data and Analytics

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Chapters and branches can play a vital role in building relationships and achieving association goals. However, effectively managing and supporting these local groups can be challenging, especially for associations with many chapters and branches. Using some of the following ideas, associations can maximise the effectiveness of their chapters and branches:Clearly define roles and responsibilitiesOne key element in maximising the effectiveness of chapters and branches is clearly defining roles and responsibilities. This includes outlining the purpose and goals of the local groups, as well as the expectations for their activities and participation. By providing clear guidance and support, associations can help chapters and branches to operate efficiently and effectively. For example, an association could develop a set of guidelines for chapter and branch leadership, outlining their responsibilities and providing resources and support for their work.Foster communication and collaborationAnother way to maximise the effectiveness of chapters and branches is to foster communication and collaboration among the local groups. This can involve providing opportunities for chapters and branches to share ideas, resources, and best practices, and encouraging them to work together on projects and initiatives. For example, an association could facilitate regular conference calls or webinars among chapter and branch leaders, or create a networking platform where local groups can connect and share ideas.Provide resources and supportIn order to be effective, chapters and branches need access to the resources and support they need to succeed. This can include providing financial resources for local initiatives, as well as offering training and development opportunities for chapter and branch leaders. For example, an association could establish a grant program to support chapter and branch projects, or offer leadership development workshops for local leaders.Encourage member involvement and participationAnother way to maximise the effectiveness of chapters and branches is to encourage member involvement and participation. This can involve providing opportunities for members to get involved in local activities, and recognising and rewarding their contributions. For example, an association could develop a volunteer program that allows members to get involved in chapter and branch initiatives, or create an awards program to recognise the contributions of local members.Foster a sense of belongingCreating a sense of belonging among members is an important factor in building strong relationships and achieving organisational goals. Associations can foster this sense of belonging by creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for chapters and branches, and by providing opportunities for members to connect and build relationships. For example, an association could create a member directory or networking platform that allows chapters and branches to connect with one another and with other members, or offer social events and activities that allow members to get to know one another.Support leadership developmentEffective chapters and branches require strong leadership, and supporting the development of local leaders can help to maximise the effectiveness of these groups. This can involve providing training and development opportunities for chapter and branch leaders, or offering mentorship and coaching support. For example, an association could offer leadership development workshops or webinars specifically tailored to chapter and branch leaders, or create a mentorship program that pairs experienced leaders with newer leaders.Evaluate and measure successFinally, to maximise the effectiveness of chapters and branches, it is important to evaluate and measure their success. This can involve establishing clear performance metrics and tracking progress against these benchmarks, as well as collecting feedback from members and leaders to understand what is working well and what areas need improvement. For example, an association could conduct annual surveys of chapter and branch leaders and members to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement, or develop a set of performance metrics to track the progress of local groups.Chapters and branches play a vital role in building relationships and achieving organisational goals. Effectively managing and supporting these local groups is critical for associations to maximise the effectiveness of their association’s chapters and branches and help them to achieve their full potential.If you are looking for support to maximise the success of your membership program we can assist. Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:%20belinda@smsonline.net.au" data-mce-href="mailto:%20belinda@smsonline.net.au">Belinda Moore</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Effectively Leveraging Branches and Chapters

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It’s important for associations to not only provide valuable learning opportunities for attendees at conferences, but also to create a memorable and immersive experience that will keep them coming back for more. Here are a few ideas to consider for your next conference:Offer diverse and interactive sessions.Instead of solely relying on traditional lectures, consider offering a mix of panel discussions, workshops, and breakout sessions that allow attendees to actively participate and engage with the content. This could include hands-on exercises, group discussions, and activities that apply the concepts being learned.Utilise technology.Leveraging technology can help enhance the conference experience for attendees. This could include using virtual reality to transport attendees to new locations or using augmented reality to bring interactive elements to the physical conference space.Provide networking opportunities.Conferences are a great opportunity for attendees to connect with others in their industry. Consider hosting networking events, such as happy hours or group activities, to encourage attendees to make new connections and build relationships.Partner with local businesses and organisations.Consider partnering with local businesses and organisations to add an element of the community to your conference and provide attendees with unique experiences. This could include hosting events at local attractions or offering discounts to attendees at nearby restaurants.Incorporate wellness activities.Many conferences offer long days of sessions and networking events, which can be physically and mentally draining for attendees. Incorporating wellness activities, such as yoga classes or guided meditation sessions, can help attendees recharge and feel their best throughout the conference.Offer unique social events.In addition to traditional networking events, consider hosting social events that offer a unique experience for attendees. This could include a guided tour of a local landmark, a cooking class, or a recreational activity such as bowling or escape rooms.Make use of attendee feedback.Solicit feedback from attendees after each conference and use it to make improvements and enhancements for future events. This could include gathering input on session topics, speakers, and overall conference organisation.By implementing these seven strategies, you can create an immersive and engaging conference experience for attendees. From interactive sessions and the incorporation of technology to wellness activities and gathering attendee feedback, there are many ways to create a memorable conference for all who attend.Want to learn more? I will be attending and presenting at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-event-innovators-retreat" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-event-innovators-retreat">Association Event Innovators Retreat</a>&nbsp;in Melbourne (15-17 February). If delivering exceptional events is important to you, then please register. This inspiring event is run by&nbsp;<a href="http://www.answers.net.au/" data-mce-href="http://www.answers.net.au/">Answers for Associations</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;and I would love to see you there.

Blog

Increasing Online Community Engagement in Your Association

Tips for Approaching “Cold” Prospective Sponsors for Your...

The Key Elements of An Association Membership Model

Empower Your Association with Data and Analytics

Effectively Leveraging Branches and Chapters

Creating Immersive Face-To-Face Event Experiences