We live in a time where “being connected” is a part of life. As a leader of an Association, it is important to be connected. Connected to the board, to members, to stakeholders, and to the association executive (CEO or Executive Director). The challenge today is how to [...]
Association volunteer leaders play a powerful role in helping members feel informed, engaged, and connected. But as we move into 2026, there is more noise than ever communications-wise. Members are overloaded with information, including emails, social feeds, meeting invites, updates, and personal notifications. That means even the most important [...]
Social media for associations has evolved from a simple outreach tool to a thriving space for two-way communication, community building, and real-time interaction. For associations, these platforms have become indispensable for fostering meaningful connections and go beyond posting updates; they create a virtual hub where members can interact, [...]
When most people think of marketing, they picture ads, logos, and catchy slogans. But for associations, marketing is more than brand awareness, it's the foundation for building strong, lasting relationships with members, partners, and the broader community. An association’s marketing team plays an important role in growing its network, [...]
Staying relevant and engaged with members is a constant priority for association marketing teams. While traditional tools like newsletters and email campaigns still hold value, it’s time to explore more strategic, member-focused approaches. Associations that adapt, stay member-centric, and communicate clearly are the ones that will continue to succeed [...]
Staying ahead of industry news, trends, and key issues is crucial for any association, but keeping up can feel like a high-wire act in today’s relentless news cycle. Take, for instance, the ever-evolving news relating to the U.S. tariffs on Canadian businesses. With information shifting rapidly, marketing and communications [...]
Today, technology offers tools that enhance communication and allow greater personalization of the member experience. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems allow associations to capture and analyze data about the preference and behaviors of members. With this information, associations can run marketing campaigns that will talk to the member's needs. [...]
For members, associations are a place where members can contribute, grow, and thrive, making them a community to many. Since being a part of a community is largely about being a part of something greater than oneself, building a community where association members gain a sense of belonging and [...]
I remember fondly, the activity of setting up the water pump to draw water from a nearby lake every spring at the family cottage. This activity would ensure that we had enough water on hand for the entire season. My dad referred to this activity as “priming the pump.” [...]
An association task force plays an integral role in addressing specific challenges, championing new initiatives and driving the organization’s missions and goals. It is different than a committee as highlighted by my former colleague’s recent blog here. But when an association’s task force is divided on a particular issue [...]
