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As we wrap up another year, I wanted to take a moment to extend a hearty season's greetings to you. I hope this festive period is filled with joy, laughter, and perhaps the odd mince pie too many (we've all been there). While we're all enjoying the holiday cheer, let's not forget that a new year means new opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. Following is the absolutely stellar line-up of events in 2024 that you won't want to miss (and I’m not just saying that because Julian and I will be presenting at them).&nbsp;🌟Practical AI Tools for Association Professionals Workshop. Join Julian Moore in this deep dive into practical ways AI can revolutionise your association. No coding required - just bring your curiosity and your laptop!&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals-copy" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals-copy" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals-copy">Syd 6 Feb</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals">Melb 7 Feb</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals-copy-copy" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals-copy-copy" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals-copy-copy">Bris 9 Feb</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals-copy-copy-copy" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals-copy-copy-copy" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-ai-workshop-practical-ai-tools-for-association-professionals-copy-copy-copy">Online 1 Mar</a>. 🌟AI &amp; The Digital Frontier Conference. Join us for a day of insightful presentations from key thought leaders in the AI space. With a stellar line up of speakers, this conference is essential for those serious about their AI journey.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date">Bris 15 Mar</a>. 🌟Association Event Innovators Retreat. Get ready to be inspired! This retreat is all about innovative ideas and strategies to take your events to the next level. Hear from thought leaders at the cutting edge of association events.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-event-innovators-retreat-save-the-date" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-event-innovators-retreat-save-the-date" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-event-innovators-retreat-save-the-date">Melb 18-19 Apr.</a> 🌟Association Leaders Retreat. Experience the magic of Uluru while connecting with fellow association leaders. This retreat is designed to empower, enlighten, and energise. Last year sold out months beforehand so book now to secure your place.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-leaders-retreat-uluru-9-copy" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-leaders-retreat-uluru-9-copy" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/association-leaders-retreat-uluru-9-copy">Uluru 15-17 May</a>. 🌟Association Leaders eXchange A series of dynamic and interactive sessions tailored for association professionals wanting to discuss solutions to common challenges. Share, learn, and network in a city near you.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy">Syd 12 Jul</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy-copy" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy-copy" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy-copy">Well 18 Jul</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy-copy-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy-copy-1" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy-copy-1">Melb 26 Jul</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy-copy-1-copy" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy-copy-1-copy" data-mce-href="https://www.answers.net.au/event/associations-reimagined-ai-the-digital-frontier-save-the-date-copy-copy-1-copy">Bris 2 Aug</a>.These events are not just about gaining new insights - they're also fantastic opportunities to network with peers, share a laugh (or two), and maybe even find your next big idea.So, as we bid farewell to this year, let's raise our glasses (or coffee mugs, for the caffeine aficionados) to a fantastic year ahead, full of learning, innovation, and connection.Wishing you a fabulous festive season and a brilliant start to the new year!

🎉 Season's Greetings & Exciting Events to Look Forward to in the New Year! 🌟 2

As the festive lights twinkle and we eagerly await Santa’s arrival, I’ve got some early Christmas cheer to share with you.&nbsp; I’d like to talk about insurance. Yes, I know, dealing with insurance can sometimes feel less exciting than finding socks under the Christmas tree. But imagine starting the New Year with the confidence that your association is covered – it's like unwrapping the best present ever (well … ok … almost)! We are currently undergoing some of the most significant shifts in the risk landscape in history - especially in the digital realm. We live in a world where cyber threats are as common as tinsel at Christmas. From data breaches to online fraud, the digital age has brought new challenges that old insurance policies may not fully address. It's vital to ensure that your coverage evolves as rapidly as these risks, providing a safety net for everything from sensitive member data to digital assets. This reassessment is as essential as checking those holiday lights for any frayed wires – because prevention is always better than cure. And here’s where the Christmas cheer happens … Answers for Associations and KBI Insurance have spent over a year tailoring an insurance solution that’s right for a wide variety of associations – creating comprehensive coverage needs at highly competitive rates.* I’ve been part of this process and have been amazed at what KBI have come up with. So, before you dive into the holiday celebrations, I highly recommend <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" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">clicking here for a quote or schedule a call closer to your renewal date.</a>&nbsp;I promise it’s way simpler than untangling Christmas lights and much more satisfying! Here’s to a jolly, risk-ready 2024, filled with peace, joy, and the confidence of healthy insurance coverage. ------- * Financial Services Laws are very confusing and complex and I take them very seriously. I'd like you to know that Answers for Associations is a referral partner for KBI and not licensed to provide financial advice or any other financial services.&nbsp;Answers receives a commission on referrals to KBI which supports the many services Answers provides to associations. KBI Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (450152) of KBI Group Pty Ltd (ABN 56 167 437 121, AFSL 494792).

🎁 Gift Your Association a Fresh Start in the New Year with KBI Insurance! 🎉

Associations around the world are not just embracing AI, they're riding the wave of its transformative power. For the smaller associations, it's like finding a secret weapon in their toolbox – they're streamlining processes and offering tailor-made experiences to members, making a mighty impression. And for the big players? They're using AI as their super-powered lens, magnifying data for strategic insights and supercharging member engagement on an epic scale. Artificial Intelligence is a practical superpower all associations, regardless of size, can significantly benefit from. Following are some practical tips to start your AI adventure on the right foot. Designate AI Advocates Think of this as finding the Indiana Jones of AI in your organisation – someone adventurous, yet thoughtful about integrating AI. Provide them with the space to identify and assess how AI can benefit your organisation. They'll be the torchbearers, guiding others through the AI jungle, identifying where AI can turn their daily challenges into a walk in the park. Training and Education: Knowledge is Power (Literally) It’s not just about staff knowing what AI is, but how it can be the Robin to their Batman. Training demystifies AI, moving it from sci-fi to reality, enabling each team member to think about AI not as a distant concept, but as an accessible tool that's here to stay and help. Regular AI Check-ins Think of these meetings as the Avengers' debriefs. Here, staff can swap stories about their AI escapades, learning from each other’s victories and misadventures. It’s about building a community within the organisation that breathes, eats, and sleeps AI. A Nod from the Big Wigs When the higher-ups are on board, it's like having Dumbledore's support at Hogwarts. Their backing is crucial in ensuring that AI isn't just a passing fad but a core part of the association's strategy and culture. Trial Runs: Small Steps to Giant Leaps Pilot projects are the association's playgrounds for AI. They are low-risk, high-reward scenarios where teams can experiment, observe outcomes, and fine-tune their approach. It’s about learning by doing, an essential step in the AI journey. Feedback Loop: The Magic Conch Shell This is where the grassroots wisdom about AI percolates up. It's not just about collecting feedback but acting on it, turning the team's insights into a goldmine for continuous improvement in the AI adventure. Call in the Cavalry: External AI Gurus Sometimes, a fresh pair of eyes, can offer new perspectives and solutions. An external experts can help bridge gaps, introduce cutting-edge AI practices, and tailor solutions that fit like a glove to the association's unique needs. If you are looking for some external support to embrace a future where AI is as integral to your operations as your morning coffee is to your day, email <a href="mailto:julian@smsonline.net.au" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary" data-mce-href="mailto:julian@smsonline.net.au">julian@smsonline.net.au</a> and let's talk further.&nbsp;

Practical Ways to Unleash the Power of AI in Your Association

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I'm excited to announce that 2024 edition of the <a href="https://uploads.commoninja.com/pdf_gallery/1701839370508_Magazine_-_AEJ_2024_-_Digital_-_FINAL.pdf" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://smsonline.net.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/AE-2023-Beyond.pdf" data-mce-href="https://uploads.commoninja.com/pdf_gallery/1701839370508_Magazine_-_AEJ_2024_-_Digital_-_FINAL.pdf" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Associations Evolve: 2024 &amp; Beyond Journal</a> is finished and ready to share.&nbsp; Over 50 association thought leaders from around the world have contributed inspirational insights, practical tips, and motivational stories to get you fired up for 2024 ... hopefully after you get a relaxing break over the upcoming holidays first. A huge Thank You to our fabulous contributors (for sharing their wisdom), <a href="https://destination.ntbusinessevents.com.au/" data-cke-saved-href="https://destination.ntbusinessevents.com.au/" data-mce-href="https://destination.ntbusinessevents.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Northern Territory Business Events</a> (whose support makes this publication possible), and Angela at <a href="http://www.answers.net.au" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.answers.net.au" data-mce-href="http://www.answers.net.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Answers for Associations</a> (whose editing help was critical to this going out with my eyesight intact).&nbsp; Happy reading and all the best for a fabulous festive season!

Associations Evolve: 2024 & Beyond Journal - RELEASED TODAY!

I’ve just wrapped up a couple of interesting projects seeking to understand how associations can engage better with younger members. We took a deep dive into the needs and preferences of the younger demographic and their needs from professional associations. From this work, following are the six key strategies we identified for enhancing engagement and fostering a more inclusive environment for these younger members.Digital Engagement: More than Just a BuzzwordIn our digital age, a kickass online presence is not just nice to have – it’s an absolute must. Think of your association’s digital platforms as your virtual handshake with tech-savvy youngsters. Dive into the world of Instagram and TikTok, where you can share snappy, relevant content that strikes a chord with them. This content should be a neat blend of informative, entertaining, and as concise as a tweet. Don’t forget to make your website as easy to navigate and inviting as a favourite local café, where everything is right where you need it, from resources and events to career opportunities. And yes, GPTs, Chatbots, and AI assistants are your new best friends in keeping these interactions smooth and savvy.Communication: It’s All About the FeelsTo resonate with the younger generation, your communication needs to be as engaging as a Netflix drama. Focus on storytelling that tugs at the heartstrings, highlighting journeys that mirror their dreams and hurdles. Mix up your delivery methods – think podcasts, interactive webinars, and Q&amp;A sessions – to cater to their diverse tastes. The key? Keep it short, sweet, and super relevant.Community Building: More than Just NetworkingCreating a sense of belonging is crucial. Imagine your association as the ultimate social club, where you host events that mix business with pleasure, catering to their interests and helping them build networks and skills. In these socially-distanced times, virtual networking platforms are the new normal. Consider special interest groups for students and early career professionals to provide a tailored community experience within the larger association.Addressing Their Unique Challenges: One Size Does Not Fit AllIt’s essential to understand the unique challenges faced by different groups among your younger members. Different younger members are having different experiences – consider the vast difference between those working in the cities versus those based in rural areas. Acknowledging their diverse experiences and adapting their membership experience is key. Offer guidance on various career paths and provide practical resources to help them navigate their careers like a pro.Education: Keep it Practical, Keep it RelevantTailor your educational resources to suit the palate of your younger members. Focus on practical skills that they can apply faster than they can swipe right. Providing inclusive education that caters to a diverse membership ensures everyone gets a piece of the knowledge pie, enhancing the value of your association.Battling Professional Isolation: Mentorship is KeyMany young members face professional isolation, more so in less urban areas. Counter this by rolling out a rock-solid mentorship program. This program should be like a matchmaker, connecting professionals with students and early career professionals for career guidance and growth. Add moderated online forums into the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for an engaged, connected community, no matter where they are.Keeping up with the younger generation can feel like trying to nail jelly to a wall. The market is shifting quickly and these strategies are not a one-size-fits all. Test and refine different ideas to find what works for you.And, if you need some help, let us know.

Strategies for Engaging Younger Members in Associations

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Have you caught wind of OpenAI's latest? Did you wake up at 4am last Tuesday to watch the <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/juliansmoore_at-4am-this-morning-7th-november-brisbane-activity-7127435729785237504-POx8?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop" data-mce-href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/juliansmoore_at-4am-this-morning-7th-november-brisbane-activity-7127435729785237504-POx8?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop">openAI Dev Day keynote</a>?... Nope, just me then lol.&nbsp;They've introduced some impressive AI tools that can make a big impact on associations. One of those is the ability for anyone to create their own, custom version of GPT.What’s a GPT?A GPT is like having your own version of ChatGPT – but tailored to your specific requirements. It &nbsp;&nbsp;even contains your own data. It learns from a lot of data, which means you can teach it about your specific topics and needs. Whether it's crafting specialised articles, responding to unique questions, summarising information in a particular way, or engaging in conversation, a customised GPT can handle it. This customisation feature makes GPTs extremely versatile and valuable, especially associations.Here's a few examples …For CEOs. Think of custom GPTs as your strategic assistant. It's not just about crunching numbers; it’s about insights and foresight into your association profession or industry. For example, you can create a &nbsp;custom GPT to analyse market trends and data. It’s an efficient and cost-effective tool that makes executive decision-making sharper and more informed.For Membership Managers.Personalised AI apps, or GPTs, can help with member engagement. These tools can automate communication, providing a tailored experience for each member. For example, you can create a GPT-driven chatbot (like a traditional chatbot but on steroids) that provides personalised responses to member inquiries, boosting engagement and reducing response times.For Event Managers.Planning events? Custom AI models can be your secret weapon. From managing intricate details to offering personalised event experiences, these models are like having an extra pair of hands, dedicated to making every event a success. For example, create a custom GPT to coordinate vendors and schedules, streamline event planning and introduce dynamic, personalised agendas for attendees.For Marketing and Communications.AI-driven content creation and customer engagement tools can elevate your marketing game. These GPTs offer a blend of creativity and efficiency, ensuring your message always hits the mark. For example, uses a customer GPT to generate targeted content campaigns, adapting to member interests and behaviours.Worried about Privacy and Compliance?Data privacy and legal compliance are crucial. OpenAI’s custom models prioritise security and privacy, keeping your data under lock and key. Plus, they offer legal support to navigate the tricky waters of copyright issues.How? Making Your Own AI.Setting up your personalised GPT-4 model is easier than you might think, especially if you're already subscribed to GPT-4 for a reasonable $20 USD per month (that’s approx. $30 AUD). From your user interface, click on your name. Then click on the 'My GPTs' option. From there, just follow the prompts.Here’s One We Prepared Earlier …Think of it as unveiling a technological masterpiece that you've carefully crafted. An excellent example of this is the model we created, "<a href="https://chat.openai.com/g/g-viiPqd4Vc-association-guru" data-mce-href="https://chat.openai.com/g/g-viiPqd4Vc-association-guru">Association Guru</a>”.&nbsp;We’ve uploaded some PDFs and given it instructions on how to use these and how to answer questions.&nbsp; The responses are slower, as it is retrieving information from our documents, but ask it about anything associations and you will get quite an unbelievable answer.If you’d like to understand how your association can practically leverage AI to immediately begin achieving significant productivity increases and maximise member experiences, contact Julian Moore on&nbsp;<a href="mailto:julian@smsonline.net.au" data-mce-href="mailto:julian@smsonline.net.au">julian@smsonline.net.au</a>&nbsp;or +61 (0) 401 648 533.

Blog

🎉 Season's Greetings & Exciting Events to Look Forward t...

🎁 Gift Your Association a Fresh Start in the New Year wi...

Practical Ways to Unleash the Power of AI in Your Associa...

Associations Evolve: 2024 & Beyond Journal - RELEASED TODAY!

Strategies for Engaging Younger Members in Associations

OpenAI’s Latest Game-Changer: Custom GPTs for your Associ...