Let's be honest. If your association isn't showing up online in 2026, you might as well be handing out flyers in an empty parking lot. That's not an exaggeration; that's just where things are right now. The way people find associations and make the decision to join has completely [...]
Effective follow-up in associations is more than sending another email or checking in after a meeting. It’s about understanding people. Reading the room (or email, or situation) is the most important thing when it comes to following up, especially within associations. Association Boards and committees are made up of [...]
Zoom webinars always look simple until you’re the one running them. Suddenly it’s slides, speakers, timing, chat messages, and the quiet hope that nothing glitches. Most issues don’t happen during the webinar; they happen in the prep. Here’s a guide on how to make things smoother and far less [...]
Many organizations, particularly those with long histories, operate under By-laws that were drafted using templates and best practices from probably, years ago. While these governing documents may have served organizations well for decades, changes in technology, member engagement, and operational realities mean that periodic review and modernization are both [...]
Major association events rarely fall short because of vision. They falter when planning lacks structure and alignment. As association volunteer leaders take on increasingly complex programs with limited time and resources, one tool continues to stand out as a proven driver of success: the critical path. When built and [...]
When associations talk about recruiting new members at Board meetings, someone asks, "How do we get to young people?" Then follows a familiar cycle: a Facebook post, a mention in the newsletter, maybe a mailer to existing members. When no one under 40 responds, the group concludes: "Young people [...]
Association marketing has traditionally focused on sharing updates about member growth and benefits, events, education, and advocacy efforts. But in 2026, the associations that are thriving are doing something different: they are creating experiences that inspire pride in belonging. This shift toward experiential marketing is emerging as one of [...]
Volunteer Boards are the backbone of any association, bringing together experienced professionals who generously offer their time, expertise, and leadership. But with great influence comes great responsibility, and one of the most critical responsibilities is recognizing and managing conflicts of interest. In industries where Board members often own businesses or [...]
If you’ve ever coordinated an association event as a volunteer leader, you know the feeling: committees are essential...and exhausting. One group handles programming, other wrangles sponsorships; a third one manages logistics, and somehow, you are the ringmaster keeping it all together. But here’s the good news: coordinating committees doesn’t [...]
In the world of associations, traditions matter. We look at our traditions for meaning, history, connection, and practice. For association volunteer leaders and committee members, these traditions are often deeply personal, built through years of service, collaboration, and care for the association and its members. The thread that links [...]
