Engaging your members through your technology

Are your members opening your enewsletters, liking your social posts and using the resources you provide on your website?

If you’re finding member engagement is stagnant and needing a boost you can look to your technology tools to support you. Having members actively participating with your Association is vital to increasing retention and attracting new membership.

Below we explore four key strategies to utilise technology to engage your members.

Refresh your website: A digital facelift

Your website serves as the digital front door to your Association, it’s important to make a lasting impression on members and potential recruits. An outdated or cluttered website can deter engagement, so it’s crucial to refresh its design and functionality ongoingly ensuring information is easy to find. Invest in a modern, user-friendly interface that aligns with your members’ expectations.

Consider incorporating interactive features, such as discussion forums, webinars, or member-exclusive content. Check that your website is mobile-responsive, meaning it can adjust to the smaller screen size and operate as normal so you can service visitors using different devices.

A well-designed and intuitive website not only enhances user experience but also showcases your Association's commitment to staying current and relevant.

Clean your database and gather more data

A clean and well-maintained member database is the bedrock of effective engagement. Regularly updating your database to eliminate duplicates, outdated information, and inactive members is important.

Actively gather more data on your members to deepen your understanding of their preferences, interests, and engagement history.

Leverage surveys, feedback forms, and analytics tools to collect valuable insights. This information will enable you to tailor your communication strategies, ensuring that members receive content that resonates with their needs and interests.

Segment and tailor your email communications: personalisation is key

Once you have a robust database and a wealth of member data, the next step is to personalise your communication. Segment your members based on factors such as length of career, interests, or type of membership. This segmentation allows you to send targeted, relevant content that speaks directly to each member's needs.

Craft personalised emails that address specific member segments, providing them with information tailored to their interests. Use automation tools to schedule emails based on optimal times and member behaviour, ensuring that your communications are timely and well-received.

Pull reports to understand members better

To truly understand your members, harness the power of data-driven insights. Pull comprehensive reports from your Association Management System to analyse member behaviour, engagement patterns, and participation in events or initiatives. These reports offer a holistic view of your membership, enabling you to identify trends, strengths, and areas for improvement.

Regularly review and analyse these reports to make informed decisions about your Association's strategy. Identify successful engagement initiatives and replicate them, while also addressing any challenges or gaps in member participation.

Engaging your members through technology involves a holistic approach that spans your digital presence, database management, communication strategies, and data analysis. By embracing these strategies, your Association can create a dynamic and personalised member experience, fostering stronger connections and a thriving community. Stay tech-savvy, stay engaged!