I recently received an invitation to an annual general meeting (AGM) for an association of which I am a member. My first instinct was to ignore the email and not attend the AGM, especially since it is not part of the annual conference and it will be held virtually [...]
New members should feel welcomed and receive guidance to connect with other members when joining an association. Making an association a welcoming environment is essential for recruiting new members but also for keeping the members you have! In this article, I will explore four essential components to increasing your [...]
Ethical behaviour means acting in ways that are consistent with behaviours that society, individuals, and businesses have deemed to be “proper” or “correct.” Good values involve demonstrating respect for key moral principles that include honesty, fairness, equality, dignity, diversity, and individual rights[1]. The most important influence on ethical values [...]
As we continue to live and work through the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever for association leaders to actively listen to members’ needs. During this difficult time, associations must keep an open line of communication with members to gauge the overall morale of the association. Members [...]
Redesigning a website takes a lot of planning and forethought. There are a lot of small details that can distract you from seeing the big picture. I have compiled a short list of points to keep in mind before and during your redesign that will help your website relaunch [...]
Engagement is such a crucial factor in managing the new world where the COVID-19 pandemic exists. There are lots of discussions taking place regarding your association members’ financial health and how the pandemic will affect this year’s results and next year’s projections. Before the world paused due to the [...]
The membership directory is a useful tool for association members. Industry partners and stakeholders make use of it often. The directory is a great way to encourage and allow members to connect with each other and to build strong partnerships. There is a lot of thought and a lot [...]
With many people currently working from home, the need for association staff and volunteer leaders to work online is necessary in today’s environment. Association meetings, whether they are board or committee meetings, and the need to hold in-person meetings weekly, monthly, or quarterly has not changed; the way in [...]
Due to the changing times as a response to COVID-19, many associations have been adapting operations and seeking new solutions. Member communications, continuing education and networking opportunities have been recreated with the purpose of providing return on investment for members. With annual general meetings, conferences, and board meetings being [...]
Associations frequently rely on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and association task calendars to guide board members and association staff through their work over a calendar year. These pre-established systems to complete tasks throughout the year are a key tool to an association’s success. I recently read a book called [...]
