In order to feel as though we’re valued, respected, and making a contribution, we need to feel like we’re part of a community. Whether it’s a community of neighbors, volunteers or coworkers, building a strong sense of community brings clarity of purpose to the groups we belong to. – Andrea Narzarian
In a nutshell, an association is simply a community of professionals who want to connect, grow and help their industry succeed. People join associations because they want to feel like they belong to something outside of their workplace. Something that gives them purpose, as Narzarian said.
Building a community in your association is key to member growth and retention. It’s likely you host events or maybe send out a quarterly newsletter, but what other ways could you incorporate community? Check out our ideas on using your association management software (AMS) to create community.
Discussion Groups
Discussion groups are a great way to give members the opportunity to connect with one another. Many AMS solutions provide some sort of group tool where members can share documents, a calendar, and have an open discussion through forums or threads. See AMO’s group tool below:
Use this feature to segment your database into discussion groups of members in the same profession, area or interests.
Committees
Committees are another way to create community in your association. Find an engaged member and ask them to lead. Put an announcement in the member portal notifying members of the new group. Allow them to apply for a position and get involved. Once a committee is established, create a web page within the member portal to display committee members, upcoming meetings, and open positions that need to be filled.
Photo Galleries
Share photos from your latest luncheon, summer BBQ fundraiser or annual conference. Be sure to have a variety of pictures, capturing moments with many different members. Pictures are a great way to quickly show the type of community you foster in your association. Plus, you’ll show prospective members that you’re a fun, creative group – and who wouldn’t want to be a part of that? See a picture of some of our team members from the annual Halloween breakfast below (I’m the lamely dressed Elephant on the left).
Association Values
Aside from the tools you use in your AMS, the values you emulate as an association are key components to fostering a great community. These values help direct your efforts and provide a sense of purpose. If you’re unsure of those values, sit down with your team and think through what members connect with the most.
If you haven’t tried an AMS solution for your members, give us a try. We have a 30-day free trial, no CC required. Click the button below to get started!