Author's posts
Jun 28
DO AS I SAY Mistakes When Dealing with Members
I remember the email clearly from last year. “When we surveyed the membership, many of you said you wanted a special dinner the night before the trade show. But only 13 members have signed up. If your association does not get more registrations, we will have to cancel this event and take a financial loss.” …
Apr 01
HOW DO I GET MEMBERS INVOLVED?
Engaging members after getting them to join or renew is one of the most asked questions by those trying to grow non-profits. “No one wants to get involved,” is the cry, “How do I get members involved?” ENGAGING MEMBERS When I am asked that question, I turn it around and say, “Why should anyone be …
Mar 02
DON’T BE STUPID…SOCIAL MEDIA IS HERE TO STAY
I was recently at a meeting of associations executives when the subject of social media came up. “Who does your social media directed toward your members?” was the question. “I have people on staff who do that.” was the reply from many. “Do you ever read what is going on?” I asked. “and do you …
Feb 10
KICK ASS WITH DYNAMITE MARKETING
Why is it that so much of the marketing materials that come from associations and non-profits are so boring? Just look at your email inbox. Which items stand out? I would bet that few are from any non-profit groups. Marketing is what motivates people to do something. And if you are still sending out the same …
Dec 10
ONE SIMPLE THING THAT CAN BRING SUCCESS
We have all been there. Those long unbearable long lines just standing at the move theatre, to be seated at a restaurant, to ride an amusement ride, go to through airport security. I am not sure exactly which of those I was standing in, but there I was, waiting with several dozens of my “closest” …
Oct 07
NON-PROFITS NEED GARDENERS
There are all sorts of books and articles out there detailing the characteristics to look for when seeking leaders for non-profits. They list such things as business savvy, previous volunteer involvement or service to the association. But few, if any, mention one that is an overlooked important harbinger of success.: Excellent association leaders are those …
Sep 04
GETTING EVERYONE TO RENEW IN 2013 IS POSSIBLE. Have You Laid the Groundwork?
As many gardeners & landscapers know, the best time to plant grass is not in the cool temps of spring or in the heat of summer; but in that 4-6 week period of late August to the end of September. By preparing the ground, putting down mulch and fertilizer and spreading seed, the gentle rains …
Aug 15
STEAK SELLING TIPS Part 2: How to Build Interest in Your Organization
When one goes to a steak restaurant, let alone any restaurant, superior ones do not leave anything to chance. They want to provide an excellent dining experience while maximizing profits. In a previous article, organizations were urged to “sell the steak, not the sizzle” as top quality restaurants do. Are there any concepts that restaurants …
Aug 01
STEAK SELLING TIPS Part 1: Remember Why Your Organization Exists
For the longest time, non-profits were urged to market themselves by selling the “sizzle.” “Our next meeting is in New Orleans!” “Attend this seminar and get a free book.” “Renew early and get a free gift.” Then a recession came along, membership went down, fewer people were attending meetings and everyone watched their expenditures more …
Jul 18
MAKING YOUR BOARD MEETINGS SHARPER, FASTER & BETTER
Corollary to Murphy’s Law: A meeting will expand to fill the time allotted to it. Tired of meetings that just go on and on and on without any end in sight? It does not have to be that way. Good meetings take planning, direction and effective guidance from the leader, usually the President or Chairman …
