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You’ve locked down your cybersecurity—firewalls, encryption, the whole lot. Feeling secure, right? But there’s a new threat lurking, and it’s not on your radar: AI-powered cyberattacks.This month is Cyber Security Awareness month and the perfect time to get across this.AI-powered cyberattacks aren’t your run-of-the-mill phishing attempts. Hackers are using AI to create smarter, more sophisticated attacks that adapt in real-time. Imagine a system that learns from your association’s behaviour, bypassing defences and attacking when you’re most vulnerable—whether it’s post-conference chaos or during a routine system update.AI: The Hacker’s Secret WeaponAI doesn’t just help your association streamline processes; it also enables cybercriminals to dig deep into your systems, identifying weak spots. Worse, these attacks can evolve and change as they learn, making them nearly impossible to predict or stop.Data Poisoning: When AI Works Against YouThink your data is safe? Hackers can corrupt it, feeding your AI false information. Decisions made on poisoned data could lead to flawed strategies, wrong decisions, and a serious loss of trust.Deepfakes: Don’t Believe Your EyesWe’re in the age of video calls, but what if that face on the screen isn’t real? Deepfakes, AI-generated videos, can impersonate anyone—even your CEO—leading to fraudulent decisions or approvals that can cost your association big time.Predictive Threats: Attacks You Can’t See ComingAI allows cybercriminals to predict your vulnerabilities, striking when you’re least prepared. These attacks are smarter, faster, and more targeted than ever before.AI-Malware: Self-Learning DestructionOld-school viruses had nothing on this. AI-powered malware learns as it spreads, adapting to security measures, becoming harder to detect and even harder to eliminate. This type of malware can wreak havoc before you even realise something’s wrong.Credential Stuffing: Hacking on AutopilotHackers use AI to quickly test stolen passwords across multiple systems, automating attacks on a massive scale. If your members or staff reuse passwords (and let’s face it, they do), credential stuffing could lead to unauthorised access across numerous platforms.What’s Can You Do?The risks have evolved—has your insurance? If you haven’t reviewed your cyber coverage lately, now’s the time to call <a data-mce-href="https://kbigroup.com.au/what-we-do-service/association-insurance-afa/" href="https://kbigroup.com.au/what-we-do-service/association-insurance-afa/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">KBI Insurance﻿</a>.KBI know the association world inside out and offer tailored cover at competitive rates - and they also specialise is cyber. Whether it's making sure you're secure against those AI-fuelled cyber nasties or just giving your policies a fresh look, they can help.We've partnered with KBI because we believe they’re the best fit for our sector. Also, Answers for Associations gets a commission, which helps fund the free services they provide for associations.&nbsp;The last thing you want is to explain to your board that a deepfake video scammed your association’s funds and it's not covered in your insurance policy - so take a few minutes to ensure you are covered just in case.<a data-mce-href="https://kbigroup.com.au/what-we-do-service/association-insurance-afa/" href="https://kbigroup.com.au/what-we-do-service/association-insurance-afa/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for a quote or to schedule a call closer to your renewal date.</a>

The Risks You Didn't Know You Needed to Worry About

a calculator sitting on top of a table next to another calculator

I wanted to tell you how important it is to stay ahead of the AI curve - and then I realised, why not show you? Today I created and loaded to membership calculators onto our website in less than 30 minutes - a <a data-mce-href="https://claude.site/artifacts/e5d7a245-0199-4685-99a3-c584b70491c4" href="https://claude.site/artifacts/e5d7a245-0199-4685-99a3-c584b70491c4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Membership Statistics Calculator</a> and a <a data-mce-href="https://claude.site/artifacts/9a92e2f7-0489-4eb1-9a61-7be92032cdb2" href="https://claude.site/artifacts/9a92e2f7-0489-4eb1-9a61-7be92032cdb2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">5 Year Membership Forecast Calculator</a> (you can see these at https://smsonline.net.au/sms-resources)I did this using Claude’s new natural language programming tool, one of many exciting AI advancements that can make life easier for association professionals.If you’re curious to know how to use tools like this, join our <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AISkillsforAssociationProfessionalsOnlineWorkshopOctober#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AISkillsforAssociationProfessionalsOnlineWorkshopOctober#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">"AI Skills for Association Professionals" online workshop</a> next Wednesday, 2 October. Even if you’ve attended before, this session is packed with fresh insights into the latest AI updates and tools since our last workshop.This practical 3-hour workshop covers AI tools you should be using right now in your association to:&nbsp;✓ Extract insights from data&nbsp;✓ Boost revenue✓ Engage younger members✓ Increase event attendance✓ Improve member recruitment✓ Grow sponsorship✓ Simplify complex research✓ Create personalized content✓ Save time and resources<a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AISkillsforAssociationProfessionalsOnlineWorkshopOctober#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AISkillsforAssociationProfessionalsOnlineWorkshopOctober#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Register today</a> to ensure every person on your team has the knowledge to apply AI to their roles. &nbsp;

Create Your Own Online Calculators (and much more)

The way associations manage and engage their members is rapidly changing, and it’s clear that the traditional "one-size-fits-all" approach just isn’t cutting it anymore. That’s why I’m excited to announce the release of my latest whitepaper, <a href="https://uploads.commoninja.com/pdf_gallery/1726092735256_Evolving_Association_Membership_Models_2024.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://uploads.commoninja.com/pdf_gallery/1726092735256_Evolving_Association_Membership_Models_2024.pdf">Evolving Association Membership Models</a>, which dives into these shifts and provides actionable strategies for associations looking to stay relevant and thrive.This paper has been years in the making, drawing from extensive research and hands-on experience working with associations. It explores how modern membership models are adapting to meet new member expectations, incorporate digital transformation, and deliver more personalised value.Here’s a quick look at what the whitepaper covers:<ul><li>A New Take on Membership Models: The paper challenges the idea that membership models should be rigid and transactional. Instead, it explores more flexible, purpose-driven approaches that focus on community, inclusivity, and the long-term sustainability.</li><li>Real-World Examples: You’ll find three examples of how associations that have successfully navigated these changes, showing what works in real-world scenarios.&nbsp;</li><li>Tools and Frameworks: Whether you’re looking to make a few tweaks or a complete overhaul, the whitepaper provides tools to assess your current membership model and practical strategies to evolve it.</li></ul>With the rise of digital technologies, shifting member expectations, and the push for greater inclusivity, there’s never been a better time to rethink how your association engages with its members. My hope is that this whitepaper will serve as a valuable resource for association professionals navigating these challenges and looking to future-proof their organisations.For those wanting more, I’m hosting a <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/EvolvingAssociationMembershipModels#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/EvolvingAssociationMembershipModels#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">three-hour online workshop</a> on Thursday 28 November that dives deeper into the key themes from the whitepaper. It's a guided tour through the ins and outs of evolving membership models, with plenty of practical tips to help you future-proof your association.Download <a data-mce-href="https://uploads.commoninja.com/pdf_gallery/1726092735256_Evolving_Association_Membership_Models_2024.pdf" href="https://uploads.commoninja.com/pdf_gallery/1726092735256_Evolving_Association_Membership_Models_2024.pdf">Evolving Association Membership Models</a> and start reflecting on how your association’s membership model can evolve to meet the needs of today—and tomorrow.

NEW WHITEPAPER: Evolving Association Membership Models

After many years in the trenches of strategic planning for countless associations, I've found there one big reason why even the most brilliant strategies fail to hit the mark: culture. Time and again, I’ve seen amazing plans fail because the underlying culture wasn’t ready to support the changes - they were trying to build a skyscraper on wet mud.&nbsp;So, when I came across Jamie Notter and Maddie Grant’s book, "<a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Culture-Change-Made-Easy-Workplace-ebook/dp/B0D15CH967" href="https://www.amazon.com/Culture-Change-Made-Easy-Workplace-ebook/dp/B0D15CH967" target="_blank">Culture Change Made Easy</a>," I knew I had to share their insights with you. This book is a goldmine of practical advice and tools to support associations to transform their cultures.&nbsp;So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea, if that's your thing), and let’s dive into the highlights! (Spoiler - if you would rather watch a webinar you are in luck - <a data-mce-href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEvd-uurTMrH9fQPgZ-J7pKzhEBWPsjhVBg#/registration" href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEvd-uurTMrH9fQPgZ-J7pKzhEBWPsjhVBg#/registration" target="_blank">click here to register for their free webinar</a> running Thu 12 Sep at 9am (QLD, Australia time)Demystifying Culture and Its PatternsFirst things first, what exactly is culture? Maddie and Jamie define it as the collection of words, actions, thoughts, and tangible aspects of work that clarify and reinforce what’s truly valued inside an organization. They introduce the concept of Culture Patterns—recurring themes that can either support or sabotage your efforts. Think of it as finally finding the hidden picture in a “Where’s Wally?” book. Once you see it, you can't unsee it!Busting Common MythsOne of my favourite parts is how the authors debunk common myths about culture change. Forget the notion that culture is some mystical force beyond our control. Spoiler alert: It’s not! Maddie and Jamie argue that culture can be measured and changed effectively. And guess what? Culture change isn't just a top-down decree; it involves everyone and can start from any level. Yes, even that quiet guy hiding out the back can make a difference!Practical Steps to Culture ChangeThe book provides a detailed roadmap for initiating culture change, focusing on intentional adjustments to processes, structures, and technologies to drive new behaviours and boost success. This approach ensures that culture change isn’t just a pie-in-the-sky dream but something tangible and achievable.Tackling Specific Culture PatternsMaddie and Jamie talk about the four primary Culture Patterns: Awkward Collaboration, Lagging Transparency, Heavy Agility, and Incomplete Innovation. Each pattern is dissected with real-world examples and practical solutions. For example, Awkward Collaboration highlights the issue of stellar individual collaboration but subpar teamwork across departments. The fix? Invest in clear decision-making and robust project management systems to streamline cross-functional collaboration.The Culture Playbook ModelThe book introduces the Culture Playbook Model—a particularly useful tool. It includes six categories of culture plays: process, structure/design, technology, human resources/talent, rituals/artifacts, and culture stewardship. This model is your toolkit for designing and implementing effective culture change initiatives, striking a balance between quick wins and long-term strategies.Sustaining Culture ChangeThe journey doesn’t end with just implementing change; maintaining it is equally important. The final chapter offers strategies to make culture change a permanent feature of your association. It’s like keeping your garden in bloom—you need to water, weed, and nurture it continuously.Why Associations Should Care"Culture Change Made Easy" isn’t just a book; it’s a guide to building a more collaborative, transparent, agile, and innovative environment. By understanding and addressing specific challenges within our cultures, we can create a work environment that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our members and stakeholders.So, if you're looking to drive meaningful culture change within your association, this book is a “must-read”. Don't miss the chance to learn directly from the experts! <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Culture-Change-Made-Easy-Workplace-ebook/dp/B0D15CH967" href="https://www.amazon.com/Culture-Change-Made-Easy-Workplace-ebook/dp/B0D15CH967" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Grab your copy of the book</a>, <a data-mce-href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEvd-uurTMrH9fQPgZ-J7pKzhEBWPsjhVBg#/registration" href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEvd-uurTMrH9fQPgZ-J7pKzhEBWPsjhVBg#/registration" target="_blank">sign up for their free webinar</a> running on 12 September, and start transforming your association today.

Don’t Let Culture Eat Strategy for Breakfast

Investing time in connecting with other association professionals is one of the most valuable actions we can take for our professional growth and our associations' success.Connecting with other association professionals gives you access to a treasure trove of shared experiences, solutions, and innovative ideas. The collective wisdom and diverse perspectives you gain from these interactions are invaluable.The beauty of these connections lies not just in the exchange of knowledge but also in the support network they create. Knowing that others understand your struggles and triumphs can be incredibly reassuring - knowing your not alone in what can be a challenging space to work.These connections also remind us that we are part of a larger community, united by our commitment to making a difference through the power of association.Is it time you took a moment to connect? Here are a few local and international opportunities to consider:Local Opportunities: Association Leaders Exchanges For those in Australia and New Zealand, we have some fantastic opportunities right around the corner. The Association Leaders Exchanges are one-day events designed to be highly interactive and delegate-driven, making them the perfect setting to foster meaningful connections. You can attend in:​<a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeSydney#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeSydney#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sydney</a>: 12 July <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeWellington#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeWellington#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Wellington</a>: 18 July <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeMelbourne#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeMelbourne#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Melbourne</a>: 26 July <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeBrisbane#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeBrisbane#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brisbane</a>: 2 AugustGoing Global: American Society of Association Executives Annual MeetingI'm excited to be attending the <a data-mce-href="https://annual.asaecenter.org/" href="https://annual.asaecenter.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ASAE Annual Meeting</a> in Ohio this August. This event brings together over 3,000 association professionals to learn, share, and connect. If you're planning to attend, let me know! I'll add you to the WhatsApp group for attendees from our side of the pond. This will help coordinate meet-ups and make the experience even more fun.Expanding Horizons: India Association CongressIn September, I'm heading to the <a data-mce-href="https://indiaassociationcongress.com/" href="https://indiaassociationcongress.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India Association Congress</a>, another excellent opportunity for association professionals to connect, share insights, and work together to tackle common challenges.Other OpportunitiesWhenever I come across valuable opportunities to connect or useful insights, I share them on my LinkedIn. If you'd like to see these, please connect to me on LinkedIn.&nbsp;Association professionals are an awesome bunch of people with a flair for finding creative solutions to their challenges. It is truly worth making the time to reach out, attend events, and connect with vibrant, supportive community.The inspiration you need might be just a short conversation away.

The Power of Connection

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away (or perhaps just around the corner, depending on where you live), a group of cave dwellers huddled around a fire. They weren't just discussing the best way to hunt mammoths or how to start a fire without losing an eyebrow - they were forming the first-ever association. That is, a community of people coming together to advance a common purpose.From the dawn of humanity, the need to come together collectively to solve common problems has been as fundamental as the need for food, water, and a good gossip session around the communal campfire.Fast forward a few thousand years, and here we are, navigating a world that's changing faster than a hangry toddler’s mood. Our associations have evolved from those simple fireside chats to complex, multi-faceted structures, but the need to connect, collaborate, and collectively tackle challenges remains steadfast.It's like our very own human constant—a bit like gravity but with fewer apples and more agendas.As we dive headfirst into these challenging times, driven by technological advancements that make yesterday’s sci-fi look like today’s news, the way our society operates is undergoing fundamental shifts. From the way we work to the way we communicate, and even to the way we define our organisational culture, the digital age is reshaping our world in ways we can yet fully imagine.Amidst this accelerating whirlwind of change, one thing remains crystal clear: the need for people to come together collectively has never been more crucial.And the kicker? Associations are the ideal vehicles to navigate this brave new world.Whether it's advocating for members to government, providing members with direct support, or simply providing a platform for members to collaborate and connect, associations have the potential to lead the charge as society charges into an unknown future.The fate of associations now rests in their own hands. They stand at a crossroads, staring down two very different paths.One path leads to a golden age of relevance, where associations embrace the future with open arms, adapting and evolving to meet the needs of their members and society at large.The other path? Well, let's just say it involves a lot of missed opportunities and the emergence of new ways of associating that might leave traditional organisations in the dust.At SMS, we believe in the power of associations and how important it is for them to stay ahead of the curve. This e-news is one way of the ways we help keep associations up to date with what’s coming.How can you help us to help you?<a data-mce-href="https://app.vision6.com.au/em/forms/subscribe.php?db=671962&amp;s=364728&amp;a=93441&amp;k=EVYRZJ6NHuY1WnOGFdhCglIcsR65rlz-C4tDuqNFTRA" href="https://app.vision6.com.au/em/forms/subscribe.php?db=671962&amp;s=364728&amp;a=93441&amp;k=EVYRZJ6NHuY1WnOGFdhCglIcsR65rlz-C4tDuqNFTRA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Recommend this newsletter</a> to anyone interested in receiving these updates. <a data-mce-href="https://app.vision6.com.au/em/forms/subscribe.php?db=671962&amp;s=364728&amp;a=93441&amp;k=EVYRZJ6NHuY1WnOGFdhCglIcsR65rlz-C4tDuqNFTRA" href="https://app.vision6.com.au/em/forms/subscribe.php?db=671962&amp;s=364728&amp;a=93441&amp;k=EVYRZJ6NHuY1WnOGFdhCglIcsR65rlz-C4tDuqNFTRA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Invite them to subscribe</a> and help build this community. Connect with other professionals at an Association Leaders Exchange in <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeSydney#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeSydney#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sydney</a>, <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeWellington#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeWellington#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Wellington</a>, <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeMelbourne#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeMelbourne#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Melbourne</a>, or <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeBrisbane#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationLeaderseXchangeBrisbane#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brisbane </a>- Julian and I will hosting discussion sessions at each.Upskill yourself on AI by attending our <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AISkillsforAssociationProfessionalsOnlineWorkshopAugust#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AISkillsforAssociationProfessionalsOnlineWorkshopAugust#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fundamental AI Skills Webinar</a> in July - this will give you the basic skills everyone in associations should know.Keep up-to-date with what's coming by attending our <a data-mce-href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationAIUpdateWhatsNewAugustWorkshop#/" href="https://events.answers.net.au/AssociationAIUpdateWhatsNewAugustWorkshop#/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Update on the Latest Developments in AI</a> in August. This session will showcase what developments in the pipeline that will impact associations. By spreading the word and getting involved, you can help ensure that associations not only survive but thrive in this ever-evolving landscape.Together, we can make sure the spirit of collaboration, collective action, and association shines brighter than ever.Looking forward to seeing you on the journey 😊

Associations at a Crossroads

SMS specialises in AI, strategy, research, membership, and partnerships for associations, charities, unions, and other not-for-profit entities. Our assistance is tailored to your needs and budget with a focus on insightful ideas and practical solutions. We can assist with anything from a discussion on a specific issue to working with you on longer term projects.