Association Open Forum

 View Only

Using Your Online Presence for Membership Benefits

  • 1.  Using Your Online Presence for Membership Benefits

    Posted 07-21-2014 10:03 AM
    No doubt, attracting and retaining members in today's competitive marketplace demands continuous attention to marketing, content and technology strategies. As associations compete with day-to-day distractions, varying interests and budget limitations, it's critical that they provide valuable incentives to set them apart from everyone - and everything - else.

    Online, this is commonly done by offering premium content to members in a "Members Only" section. The standard routine includes logging into the website, then being redirected to a library of white papers, presentations, and discussion groups. Or, instead of being redirected, additional content is revealed directly on the page they were on. Other benefits include reduced pricing on products, events and services or offering of those services only to members. Some organizations also provide access to secret or private groups on sites like Facebook. These "secret" communities let folks discuss whatever they want, outside of the confines of an association's regular community website. They are generally governed by the community themselves.

    Aside from premium content and discussions, what are some other ways to use your online presence to attract and retain members?

    -------------------------------------------
    Denman Wall
    Dolci Management Services
    Director of Interactive Services
    Valley Stream NY
    -------------------------------------------