‘In the IOT (Internet of things) space, no-one can hear you scream.’ As mentioned at the recent Member’s Data solution day, for decades, membership bodies have written for people. Guidance notes, technical standards, policy papers, research all crafted for a professional to stay informed. That reader is changing. Just look how you surface information [...]
A perspective on deployment productivity in the membership sector Every few years the membership sector talks itself into believing the next platform will be the one that fixes everything. Having spent a career alongside associations large and small, through the desktop era, client-server, the move to cloud, and now the arrival of capable AI, [...]
Most discussion of generative engine optimisation (GEO) frames it as a new burden for marketing teams. For membership organisations, the framing should be the opposite. You are already sitting on exactly the kind of content AI search rewards. Why GEO is good news for membership organisations When a prospective member asks an AI tool [...]
For trade associations and membership organisations, a website is far more than an online brochure. It's often the first place prospective members go to learn about your organisation, the hub for member communications, and a powerful tool for supporting recruitment, engagement and retention. As member expectations continue to evolve, many organisations are reviewing whether [...]
Traffic is falling. Enquiries are slowing. Yet search rankings often look perfectly healthy. This is the pattern membership digital teams are reporting across the sector. The reaction is usually the same: look for a technical problem. Fix something. Publish more. The problem is not technical. And publishing more may be making it worse. Why [...]
The membership sector is adopting AI faster than almost any other technology in its recent history, but the data foundations those tools depend on have not kept pace. The 2026 MemberWise Digital Excellence Report shows AI adoption climbing from 5% to 26% in a single reporting cycle, with ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot now part [...]
Quick answer: Prospective and existing members are increasingly making join, renewal and upgrade decisions with AI tools (ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, Google's AI Overviews) before they reach your website. The membership decision is now AI-mediated, and often answered without a site visit at all. The organisations adapting are restructuring content so AI systems represent them [...]
For many small and mid-sized membership organisations, the phrase “digital transformation” can feel intimidating. It often brings to mind expensive consultancy projects, complex software implementations and months of disruption all requiring budgets and internal resources that simply aren’t available. But the reality is that digital transformation has changed. Today, it’s less about large-scale technology [...]
Picture the scene. Your mentoring programme is running. Senior members are paired with junior ones. Relationships form, feedback is positive, the admin team reports good uptake. By every visible measure, it’s working. And yet, when you look at your renewal data, the pattern is familiar. Younger members - the ones the programme was designed [...]
Mentoring is an excellent, focused, and practical way to expand your knowledge, insights, and professional skills. Many membership organisations provide mentoring initiatives for their members because they deliver a clear "win-win-win" outcome: Win 1: Members gain practical support and insights from one another. Win 2: More established members can "give back" by volunteering as [...]
For membership leaders, understanding the technology landscape is just the first step. The real challenge, and the true value, lies in making smart, confident decisions about where to invest, what to fix, and what to set aside. Our previous discussions highlighted the importance of gaining clarity on your current systems, data, and processes. Now, [...]
For most membership bodies, the website is the single most frequent touchpoint with their members. It’s where people renew their membership, find resources, book events and connect with their profession. That makes it one of the most powerful tools you have, so it matters that the experience is a good one. The experience gap [...]
In the last month alone, over 400 visitors to our website searched for the term "Subscription Fatigue." This is a record high for our community, and it signals a growing anxiety among membership and association professionals. But what exactly is driving this trend, and more importantly, how can we ensure your membership organisation remains [...]
Most membership organisations understand where they stand today. They can explain renewal rates. They can report on income. They can show how the last 12 months have performed. But far fewer can answer a simpler, more important question: What will your membership look like in five years? The risk that builds quietly Many organisations [...]
On paper, most associations are well governed. They have committed boards, clear constitutions, defined processes and a shared sense of purpose. Trustees and directors bring experience, insight and strategic direction. Meetings are structured, agendas are full, and decisions are made with the best of intentions. And yet—many organisations still struggle to deliver. Not because [...]
Most conversations about AI in the membership sector focus on whether organisations are ready to adopt it. But there’s a quieter problem that’s already happening, and far fewer people are talking about it. Your members are almost certainly already using AI tools. Some of them are almost certainly feeding your guidance, your advice notes, [...]
After speaking to dozens of membership organisations at MX2025, one theme came up again and again. Not “we need a new colour palette.” Not “we need a trendier homepage.” But: “We need clarity.” Clarity about purpose. Clarity about audience. Clarity about what the website is actually there to do. Across professional bodies, trade associations [...]
Picture this. An environmental consultant has just been handed a site investigation for a former waste dump. The preliminary risk assessment flagged potential contamination migration into a nearby watercourse, the client wants to move fast, and the local authority is asking questions she hasn't dealt with before about controlled waters risk thresholds. She needs [...]
Some membership organisations might assume that growth comes from doing more: more events, more content, more benefits. But two associations could offer almost identical value on paper and see completely different results. One may grow steadily each year, while the other keeps having the same conversations around renewals that they had three years ago. [...]
AI is reshaping recruitment across the UK, particularly in administrative and operational roles. Demand for high‑calibre executive assistants, office managers, and project coordinators remains strong, even as AI becomes more embedded in day‑to‑day workflows. For membership organisations, where communication, coordination, and continuity are critical, the need for skilled administrative support has not diminished, it [...]
Ask a member why they joined your organisation, and most will give a practical answer. CPD hours, a directory listing, access to resources, discounted events. Ask them why they stayed, and the answers get more interesting. They'll talk about people they met, problems they solved, moments where the organisation understood what they were going [...]
Redundancy can feel sudden, unsettling, and deeply personal, but it is not uncommon across the membership and association sector. The reasons may vary in different situations – and it is helpful to understand these but equally you need to concentrate on what you do next. This is a moment to regroup, re‑focus and take [...]
Membership has always been about more than access. Good membership organisations provide support and understanding, no matter where a member is in their professional journey — from first joining through to senior roles and beyond. As members across the country face rising cost-of-living pressures and tricky economic conditions, that support is more important than [...]
Membership organisations are under pressure from every direction with members constantly expect better digital services. Staff need accurate information, smoother processes and leadership teams are asked to deliver more value while managing tight budgets and rising expectations. In many organisations, the challenge is not a lack of effort or ambition. It is that systems, [...]
When membership organisations talk about non-subscription based income opportunities, the conversation often starts in the wrong place. It begins with sponsorship targets, media packs or the pressure to create new income quickly. But the strongest non-subscription based income opportunities rarely begin with inventory. They begin with insight. Every membership body sits on something more [...]
Digital Excellence (2026) -Thursday 7th May 2026 Daniel Bailey is Director of Digital Development and Membership Operations at ECA, the UK’s leading trade association for the electrotechnical services industry, and we are delighted to welcome him as Chair of the Digital Strategy, Data & Growth Stream at Digital Excellence 2026. He works across both ECA's Membership [...]
I keep hearing membership organisations talk about using AI to predict what members need before they even ask. But here's what I've learned: most can't even tell you who their most valuable members are. The Problem Hiding in Plain Sight When I ask organisations about their AI strategy, they light up. When I ask [...]
Digital Excellence (2026) -Thursday 7th May 2026 Kayleigh Mapstone, Executive Director of British Mensa and MemberWise Ambassador (Community), will be a familiar and very welcome face to many within the MemberWise network. Having been actively involved in the community for several years – as a speaker, ambassador and regular delegate – Kayleigh has become [...]
Nobody sets out to run a membership organisation on spreadsheets, manual processes or workarounds. Yet you might find yourself in this position. Picture this: it’s the end of the month on a Tuesday, the team knows which spreadsheet has the right renewal data, who to ask when the numbers don’t add up and how [...]
A research-informed view on how member expectations are evolving Membership organisations are entering 2026 in a period of rapid change. Engagement, retention, and visible value are no longer secondary goals. They are the strongest drivers of sustainable growth. Industry benchmark research continues to highlight how member expectations are evolving and why organisations must rethink [...]
Interview with Sophie Tothill, Senior Engagement Lead, CIPD Chair of Stream 2: Digital for Member Engagement & Value, Digital Excellence May 2026 Many of you will already recognise Sophie Tothill — usually in a red MemberWise t-shirt, clipboard in hand, generously supporting the team over the past few years. This year, we’re delighted that [...]
How rising expectations are reshaping digital standards for associations Members increasingly judge their association experience against the digital services they use every day. Self-service, mobile-friendly access and relevant communications are no longer “nice to have”. They’re the baseline. When someone can book a holiday, manage their banking and order groceries from their phone in [...]
The outlook for IT support and cyber security is less about predicting specific technologies and more about understanding the pace and direction of change. The past few years have shown that reactive IT models are no longer sufficient; organisations that succeed will be those that treat IT and security as strategic enablers rather than [...]
As someone working in a membership organisation, you’ve probably heard the word ‘disengagement’ said whenever participation or enthusiasm declines. Maybe you’ve noticed fewer RSVPs for events, newsletter open rates slipping, or the same group of members showing up time and again while others fade into the background. It’s tempting to put this down to [...]
"42% of businesses cite lack of training or CRM experts as the biggest barrier" (Source: crm.org) For more than three decades, we’ve worked alongside membership organisations to help them embed CRM systems into their day-to-day operations. During that time, one lesson has come through consistently: investing in the right CRM is only the first [...]
Digital engagement now forms the foundation of retention, advocacy and long-term value for membership organisations. However, many organisations still rely on websites that function as digital noticeboards rather than active engagement platforms. No matter the industry, members today expect personalised, intuitive, and on-demand digital experiences. A smarter website strategy can make all the difference [...]
Search engines are still the first place that most potential members encounter your brand. As a membership organisation, SEO is an essential tool for growing discoverability, relevance, reach, and engagement. And with many new technologies and channels entering the race for discoverability right now, the value of good SEO has become increasingly important. That [...]
The way we work is changing fast. AI, cloud technology and automation are now part of everyday business life. Add to that the long-term impact of the pandemic, the normalisation of remote working, and ongoing changes to employment rights, and it’s clear that organisations need a better understanding of what the workplace will look [...]
Every association has them: members who pay their fees, receive the emails, maybe attend one event, and then slowly disappear into the background. They don’t cancel. They don’t complain. They simply fade. This ‘invisible member’ points to a deeper problem. Engagement rarely starts with systems. It starts with psychology. People tend to emotionally leave [...]
When British Gymnastics launched their Leap Without Limits vision, it wasn't just a rebranding exercise. It was a commitment to creating an uplifting, safe, and inclusive experience for everyone involved in the sport. At the heart of this vision sat a critical question for their membership team: How do we empower 100,000+ members, coaches, [...]
This isn’t a technology problem. It’s a leadership one. From archive documents to usable knowledge Most membership bodies still think of knowledge as documents: reports, guidance notes, research papers, web pages. These formats work well for humans, but machines struggle. They don’t “read” in the same way we do. Machines need knowledge that is: [...]
Why authenticity, insight and impact is defining the future of membership Every year, we’re tempted to predict the future. Every year, the future laughs quietly and does what it was going to do anyway. And yet… stepping into 2026, there is something different in the air for membership organisations. The noise is louder. The [...]
Over the coming weeks we will announce our new MemberWise Ambassadors who will champion their particular area of expertise. Introducing MemberWise Ambassador (HR & Workforce), Wendy Eley, Group Operations and HR Director at the CSSC (Civil Service Sports Council). We get to know Wendy... The CSSC was formed in 1921, and provides health, wellbeing, [...]
In the membership world, experience is everything. It underpins retention, advocacy and long-term value. Members increasingly expect timely, human responses across multiple channels, yet many organisations are trying to meet those expectations with small in-house teams and finite budgets. Pressure points are well known. Annual renewals, event registrations and peak campaign periods can quickly [...]
For many membership organisations, the website is just there—like electricity or water—something you expect to work in the background. But is your website quietly ticking along as a basic utility, or is it a true asset driving your association’s growth and member satisfaction? The Utility Mindset If your website simply lists information, processes renewals, [...]
Over the coming weeks we will announce our new MemberWise Ambassadors who will champion their particular area of expertise. Introducing MemberWise Ambassador (Events), Nicola Pogson, Senior Events Manager,R3 (Association of Business Recovery Professionals). We get to Nicola... R3 is the trade association for the entire community of the UK's restructuring, turnaround and insolvency professionals, [...]
The best thing about joining the ILM from a personal and professional perspective was that I had a blank slate and the existing team were incredibly open to ideas. Prior to creating my role, the ILM primarily viewed subscriptions and renewals as the core element of the membership activity, so they really wanted someone [...]
Over the coming weeks we will announce our new MemberWise Ambassadors who will champion their particular area of expertise. Introducing MemberWise Ambassador (Public Relations and Communications), Gemma Rickard, Head of Marketing, Membership & Digital at the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC). We get to know Gemma... SLCC is the professional body for local [...]
For many membership organisations, communication has long followed a familiar pattern: updates go out, renewals come in, and engagement is measured through open rates, click-throughs or event attendance. But members today expect much more. They want to feel heard, valued and understood, not just as recipients of information, but as part of an ongoing [...]
Over the coming weeks we will announce our new MemberWise Ambassadors who will champion their particular area of expertise. Introducing MemberWise Ambassador (Digital Transformation), Matt Strain, Assistant Director, Digital Platforms & Change at the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments (CISI). We get to know Matt... With over 53,000 members across 131 countries (32,000 [...]
The real disruptors It was only five years ago the UK, and the world, went into lockdown. Overnight, everything changed. How we worked, learned, and connected was transformed. Not since the funeral of Princess Diana had so many in the UK turned on the television (or streamed) to watch PM Boris Johnson’s lockdown announcement. [...]
Why Experience Matters Your members’ expectations have changed. They now compare your membership experience to the slick, personalised journeys they get from services like Spotify or Apple. Experience goes beyond benefits; it includes all interactions from the point of discovery through to renewal. Every touchpoint influences how a member feels and whether they remain [...]
When we talk about cyber security it’s tempting to think only in terms of technology like firewalls, end point detection and advanced security solutions. However, for many organisations real cyber resilience is just as much about people, governance and culture as it is about the actual tools. As threats continue to grow in terms [...]
Here's a stat that should make every membership professional sit up: 52% of you cite events as your top-performing recruitment method. Brilliant, right? Wrong. Well, not entirely wrong. Events are fantastic. But here's the problem: you're spending thousands on conferences, webinars, and networking sessions, collecting hundreds of email addresses... and then what? According to [...]
Free online communities are thriving in membership organisations, but low conversion rates remain a challenge. This article explores how freemium models, trials, and clear value propositions can convert free subscribers into fully fledged, paying members. Why Free Communities Matter Free online communities expand an organisation’s acquisition funnel, boosting visibility and giving prospects a “taster” [...]
Most membership organisations fall into one of three scenarios: spending money on Google and LinkedIn ads that appear successful but deliver no growth, considering whether paid advertising could work for them, or avoiding paid advertising altogether despite needing new growth channels. If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone, and more importantly, there’s [...]
Imagine a member seeking assistance only to be bounced around various departments, needing to describe his or her circumstances at each touchpoint. When they finally arrive at someone who can assist them, that person can’t access their entire membership history. This frustrating member experience is a result of data silos. You can’t give your [...]
Membership organisations rightly devote time and energy to listening to their members. Member surveys and consultations provide valuable insights into satisfaction, needs, areas for improvement, and opinions on important subjects and developments within the profession. But often, one group’s voice is missing: non-members. Non-members may not complete your regular surveys or attending your events, [...]
Futureproof your organisation by investing in the next generation — now. I recently collaborated with a forward-thinking membership body that truly values its student members. They don’t just offer free membership — they invest in it. The result? A dynamic, engaged, and loyal future member base. If you’re in a membership organisation and you’re not [...]
Stop segmenting for convenience - Start segmenting for impact Segmentation has become a buzzword in the membership world, but the way many organisations approach it is fundamentally flawed. Too often it’s a tidy admin exercise: categorising members by age, career stage or geography and calling it done. This type of segmentation might keep the [...]
Whilst many organisations have implemented new tech as part of their digital transformation, they don’t have a strategy in place that helps them derive value from their investment. They often end up in a vicious circle where they fail to properly adopt new and existing capabilities, user enthusiasm wanes, and the CRM is blamed [...]
Online communities are an integral part of any cohesive membership organisation. An active community expands reach to prospects, invokes a sense of belonging in existing members, and can even make USPs all the more compelling. In a recent podcast, discussion of the 90-9-1 rule highlighted a major challenge of online communities. The majority of [...]
Understanding your users is at the heart of any successful digital experience. But true understanding takes more than just surface-level metrics. It requires a balance of quantitative and qualitative insight - one showing what users do, the other revealing why they do it. When used together, they drive smarter decisions and stronger digital outcomes. [...]
The thought of visiting the local Blockbuster store with your membership card in hand, brings a warming sense of nostalgia for an 80s child like me. But what’s the story behind the demise of this iconic membership business? In its prime in 2004, Blockbuster boasted 9,000 stores worldwide, with revenues of $6 billion and [...]
The MemberWise Network is the leading free best practice network for membership and association professionals in the UK/EU. This year we embark on an ambitious programme to tool up the sector in response to the requirement to grow. Here is where we start. We wholeheartedly believe that common roles within Membership Organisations and Associations [...]
Are you one of the 2m + who have seen the viral AI generated Yeti vlogs on YouTube? Very clever and amusing if you have not seen them yet. We all have been used to CGI in movies for decades, some even remember the Millennium Falcon, X-wings, and other starships were built from a [...]
The landscape of membership is changing. Retention is tough, and attracting new members is even tougher. Simply offering benefits no longer guarantees loyalty or success. According to the 2024 MemberWise Digital Excellence Report, around 34% of membership organisations have seen a decline in membership numbers over the last year. On top of this, over [...]
Introduction One thing you can always count on is that your members' needs will evolve. Static, one-size-fits-all benefits are giving way to more relevant, ongoing perks to match this evolution. The membership organisations that thrive today are those adding value at various stages throughout the member journey so that their offering feels essential rather [...]
Let's be honest, today's members expect a lot from organisations. They want everything to be easy, quick, and fully personalised. Getting someone from their first sign-up to becoming a true champion of your organisation takes more than just good intentions. You need the right tools to make that journey as smooth as possible. A [...]
The Data (Use & Access) Act 2025 (DUAA) introduces significant changes to the UK’s data protection framework bringing both opportunities and new compliance requirements for membership organisations. What the DUAA means The DUAA, which received Royal Assent on 19th June 2025, introduces significant updates to UK data protection laws, affecting how membership organisations handle [...]
As we enter the AI era, your members can now get instant answers and insights to complex questions —for free. So what does this mean for membership organisations? Let’s be honest—when a member has a question, they’re not waiting for your reply. They’re asking ChatGPT. Why wouldn’t they? It’s fast, free, and available 24/7. [...]
In today’s dynamic and regulated professional landscape, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) has evolved from a compliance checkbox into a strategic lever for workforce transformation. For professional associations across the UK and Europe, the challenge is no longer whether to offer CPD, but how to elevate it to deliver measurable impact for members, regulators, and [...]
Royal Warrants are a centuries-old mark of recognition for companies or individuals who have supplied goods or services to the Royal Household for at least five years, and who demonstrate excellence, reliability, and integrity. They are neither commercial endorsements nor easily granted badges, they are earned over time, reflecting an ongoing relationship grounded in [...]
On average, membership subscriptions and events make up approximately 30-45% total revenue for membership organisations. However, the time to diversify revenue streams has come. Due in part to an industry-wide recognition that overreliance on fee-based models means more vulnerability. In fact, the MemberWise Influence 100 membership bodies costs are only half covered by subscription [...]
In our last blog, we explored how optimisation tools and smart personalisation can transform member engagement. But how do you measure that transformation? How can you prove what’s working and where more effort is needed? That’s where KPIs come in. With the right KPIs, you can cut through the noise, align your teams, and [...]
Introduction We’re always talking about the ‘ongoing loop of value and engagement’ - but what does that actually mean? It’s a simple idea: your members give, and they get. They contribute their time, ideas, and energy – and in return, they receive valuable resources, recognition and that all-important sense of belonging. But here’s the [...]
The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCC Act), with consumer protection rules effective from April 2025 and subscription contract provisions from Spring 2026, introduces significant changes for UK membership organisations, such as trade associations and professional bodies. If your organisation engages with members acting as consumers (e.g., self-employed professionals), compliance with these [...]
Membership organisations are built on public trust, stewarded by governing boards and sustained by thousands of individual members, but even the most respected membership bodies are vulnerable to governance failure. When it happens, the results can be dramatic: collapsing reputations, regulatory scrutiny and lost members. In this blog, we look at two examples, a [...]
After 15 years of implementing software for membership organisations and charities, I've seen a curious phenomenon: projects that tick every specification box but still leave users frustrated. The culprit? We've been solving the wrong problem. I once delivered a membership renewal system that met every single acceptance criterion. Three months post-launch, member complaints doubled. [...]
Trust means a lot more to your members than you might think. Loyal members spend 67% more than new members, and they are much more forgiving when things do go wrong every now and then. That is trust in action. However, some membership organisations still prefer working behind closed doors, leaving members to guess [...]
GS1 UK is excelling in digital — what’s been the key to that success, and how will you bring those lessons to the TechSmart 2025 audience? I think there are several reasons GS1 UK is excelling in digital. Firstly, the nature of our organisation. We are a data business that has always supported our [...]
In today's climate-conscious world, the relationship between membership organisations and their suppliers has evolved far beyond simple procurement decisions. Members increasingly expect their organisations to work with suppliers who share their environmental values, creating a powerful ripple effect that's driving businesses across all sectors toward Net Zero commitments. The Member-Driven Sustainability Revolution Membership bodies [...]
In today’s digital-first world, member engagement isn’t just a buzzword – it’s the foundation for thriving, resilient membership organisations. That’s why at Cantarus, we’re helping organisations transform their digital journeys with data and optimisation tools. These combined with a CMS platform enables organisations to turn visitors into loyal members, by combining real-time data with [...]
From streaming platforms and meal kits to Spotify and Netflix, monthly recurring payments are piling up. Members already juggling multiple subscriptions may start questioning whether they can justify one more. As a result, associations and membership bodies risk being viewed as just another expense to cut. In the UK, the average annual retention rate [...]
In the evolving world of membership organisations, effective leadership is no longer about titles or top-down control. Instead, it’s about putting people at the heart of every decision. Human-centred leadership is rapidly emerging as the most effective approach – one that builds trust, fosters engagement, and drives meaningful change. At its core, human-centred leadership [...]
Creating the Perfect Membership Pack in 2025: Engaging, Valuable, and On-Brand Membership packs remain a crucial tool in building engagement, loyalty, and a sense of belonging. Discussions around digital vs physical have been bubbling along for a little while, as you can see from the MemberWise discussion boards. But in a world of digital [...]
Few things are as subjective as member experience. The margin for error can be paper-thin to non-existent. You might be delivering fantastic value, celebrating record renewal rates and shipping off regular newsletters. All is right as rain—or so you think. But what if there’s a gap between your internal assumptions and the reality your [...]
Relational support for senior leaders in complex roles Introduction I’m a partner at TC Group, a top-20 accountancy and advisory firm. Alongside 30 years in leadership, I coach CEOs and senior leaders. I trained at Ashridge (Hult International Business School), one of Europe’s most respected coaching institutions. What the Evidence Shows: Coaching Works Executive [...]
At the MemberWise Digital Excellence 2025 conference & Exhibition, we dug deep into how digital can help deliver better membership outcomes. From smarter engagement to stronger retention, we explored what’s possible when digital is done well. But something important stood out — the sector isn’t short on ambition, it’s short on implementation. We heard [...]
LinkedIn has long been seen as the professional social network — and for good reason. With over 1 billion members worldwide and a strong emphasis on career development, sector insight, and B2B networking, it’s no surprise that many membership organisations see LinkedIn as their digital home. But while LinkedIn remains a key channel for [...]
Digital natives are the primary demographic in the global workforce. As Millennial and Gen Z spending power increases, questions around their priorities should be carefully considered. However, that should not come at a cost of losing older members who have supported their chosen associations over many years. Hyper-personalisation breaks down preconceived notions around demographics. [...]
As membership professionals handling member queries, services, events, and learning programmes, you’re truly at the coalface of understanding and delivering on membership experience. Yet, while real-world expertise, engagement and demographic data provide a robust foundation, truly unpicking the needs and motivations of your diverse membership – and, critically, how your organisation can operationally meet [...]
All Membership Bodies have a library of legal documents, policy documents and many have standards as part of the governance process and charitable status. Many organisations diligently help shape policy change through research and influence. These collected data points drive change through drafting and curating new and old policies. It is an expensive, patient [...]
In a digital-first world where automation is king, the membership sector can often be seen as playing catch-up. With a seemingly infinite array of tools at our fingertips—CRMs, omnichannel platforms, AI, analytics dashboards—it’s tempting to assume that membership services are just another arm of customer service. But those of us who live and breathe [...]
We are now pleased to announce that we have appointed a new Ambassador in the area of HR – Introducing Amanda Arrowsmith, People & Transformation Director at The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development(CIPD). Let’s get to know Amanda (and the high profile professional body that she currently works for) who’ll be championing this crucial [...]
In this article, we explore the benefits of using a Proof of Concept (PoC) approach when integrating AI into your business’ operations, and how it can help clarify your understanding of this technology. What is a Proof of Concept? A Proof of Concept (PoC) for AI integration is a smaller-scale experiment with significantly lower [...]
How to balance tailored experiences with rigorous data protection. In today’s crowded digital landscape, membership organisations face a tough challenge. They must stand out and remain relevant, even when competing against digital consumer experiences from organisations with vastly larger tech budgets. Whether you’re looking to enhance engagement or simply ensure that your data practices [...]
1. Please can you tell us a bit about your association and your role there? I’m the Executive Director at British Mensa, where I’ve been leading a real shift in how we think about the future of the society. Over the past few years, we’ve focused heavily on modernisation—whether that’s improving member engagement, embracing [...]
Are you struggling to keep pace with ever-evolving member needs while ensuring your organisation remains competitive and relevant? Drawing on the practical lessons from the British Dietetic Association (BDA) case study, we share how harnessing membership data can pinpoint emerging challenges and drive transformative change in your support and engagement strategies. Discover how a [...]
We’re pleased to announce that leading sector digital agency, GRM Digital, has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and their strong alignment with the network. As an Official Partner (2025) GRM Digital [...]
MemberWise Solutions Day (3 April 2025, Novotel London West) provided valuable insights and practical strategies to help membership organisations navigate evolving challenges and opportunities, focusing on member engagement, digital transformation, and commercial innovation. Rich Gott, Chair of MemberWise (www.memberwise.org.uk), opened the day by addressing critical sustainability concerns faced by the sector. He highlighted that [...]
I mean it is hard to say no right? As ‘no’ might be seen as a negative, a red flag, a ‘hold on, I will just hide my personal collection of nuclear weapons behind me’ moment! To most … the recording often means there will be an outcome, for you, for me, for them. [...]
Apparently, I'm Sainsbury's second-largest buyer of Chicken Tonight. My top track for 2022 was "Let's Dance" by The Spooky Men's Chorale (although it dropped to third place the following year). Last year, I was among the top 3% of learners on Duolingo. So, in this data-centric world, what do you know about your members, and [...]
If you work in a membership organisation, you already know the pain. Members need answers—about CPD requirements, industry standards, event bookings, or how to renew their membership. But where do they go? For many, it’s straight to your inbox or a phone call to your team. Despite all the carefully curated content, FAQs, and [...]
Starting a newsletter may seem like a daunting task, but it can be an incredibly effective tool to engage with your members. There are several benefits to publishing a newsletter, such as keeping members informed of upcoming events, sharing community news, and providing industry updates, all conveniently compiled in one publication. A newsletter serves [...]
Membership organisations generate a huge amount of valuable knowledge—years of reports, research, policies, and best practices. But when someone actually needs that information? It’s often impossible to find. Sound familiar? Members email and phone with questions that should be easily answered—but can’t find the information themselves. Staff waste hours digging through PDFs, emails, and [...]
In today’s economic climate, professional associations face an unprecedented challenge: maintaining strong membership numbers whilst their members grapple with mounting cost-of-living pressures. As discretionary spending comes under scrutiny, membership subscriptions often find themselves on the chopping block. However, there’s a science to ensuring your association doesn’t become a casualty of budget cuts. Understanding the [...]
Professional bodies do more than issue membership certificates; they create communities where knowledge, experience, and career progression are actively supported. A mentoring programme brings this to life, providing structured support that helps members advance in their careers, gain qualifications, and build strong networks. More than just a ‘nice-to-have,’ mentoring is a high-value, low-cost benefit [...]
1. Please can you tell us a bit about your association and your role there. The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) is a world leading scientific society, with a mission to advance the chemical sciences and support the global chemistry community. We’re passionate about fostering a thriving network of professionals, researchers, and educators to [...]
Introduction Member acquisition and retention will undergo exciting changes in 2025. Leading membership associations are prioritising dynamic membership experiences that support personalised interactions. This means members can now access robust engagement ecosystems that deliver tangible value right away. Trends like this are shaping the future of member loyalty. 5 Crucial Membership Trends for 2025 [...]
Trade associations are an essential part of the UK economy. They represent businesses across various sectors and act as the collective voice for their members. An estimated 400–500 trade associations in the UK have full-time staff, and over 1,000 smaller organisations may operate without dedicated staff. Collectively, these associations play a pivotal role in [...]
Rebranding is one of the most significant moves a membership organisation can undertake. It’s not just about changing a logo; it’s a journey to redefine who you are, realign with your values, and ensure that your brand remains relevant to evolving audiences. Whether you’re a decades-old institution or a growing community group, rebranding presents [...]
The DeepSeek news landed the same time as many of us are getting our annual professional body renewal letters through the post. I have been a member since 2010 with my Institute and they kindly told me of all the wonderful things they have done over 2024, that they had an exciting future and [...]
This month saw the launch of Digital Excellence (2025) -Thursday 15th May 2025, This highly anticipated event is your go-to for those exploring digital transformation and development in membership organisations. The programme boasts exceptional speakers, including Alan King, Head of Global Membership Development, Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)who will be chairing our “Keynote Stream”. This [...]
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept confined to tech companies and futuristic visions. It is rapidly transforming industries, education, and public services, promising unparalleled opportunities for efficiency and growth. The recent UK Government announcement on the strategic use of AI to boost economic growth and streamline public services underlines the significance of [...]
Imagine a vibrant membership association where every member's voice is heard and appreciated. Sounds like a dream, doesn't it? However, that's not quite the case. It's a foundation for a thriving community of like-minded people. Member feedback is the lifeblood of growth and innovation. So you'd better make that count. How can you transform [...]
The 2024 Christmas holiday presents a unique opportunity for strategic AI thinking within your organisation. Often the season offers a rare opportunity to pause, reflect, and strategise for the year ahead. For membership-led organisations, this time can be invaluable for rethinking how to manage and maximise the wealth of information they handle daily. Enter [...]
What is a COP and why does it matter? Conferences of the Parties (COPs) are critical forums for global action. These annual meetings bring together world leaders, policy makers, scientists, businesses, and activists to address the most pressing environmental issues of our time, set goals, share innovations and hold each other accountable. COPs are [...]
Social media is a powerhouse for member engagement, communication, and brand visibility. For membership organisations, integrating social media with your CRM system is no longer optional, it’s essential for building deeper member relationships and streamlining operations. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits, steps, tools, and real-world examples of integrating social media with your [...]
“Cost” has and will always be a factor in an individual’s decision making, and for professional bodies and membership organisations it still remains a key reason for member resignations. With the most recent cost of living crisis, questions around subscription fees and the affordability of services have become even more prevalent. In our experience, [...]
For membership organisations, understanding members deeply is at the heart of building valuable, long-term relationships. However, the reality is that many organisations still manage membership data across multiple platforms. From CRM systems to email marketing tools, community platforms, and event management software, data silos can lead to fragmented insights and missed opportunities. When information [...]
In the world of membership organisations, promoting an event effectively is essential for maximizing attendance and engagement. Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising offers a targeted and cost-effective way for membership organisations to reach their audience, whether it's an open event or a specific paid event. This article will walk you through the essentials of PPC for [...]
For membership organisations, making a lasting impact is at the heart of what you do—empowering your communities, enhancing member experiences, and driving positive change. But how do you deepen that impact and make every decision truly count? One of the most effective ways is through harnessing the power of your data. Data is more [...]
Member engagement is at the core of any thriving membership organisation. Engaged members are often more invested and loyal, making them more likely to renew their membership and advocate for the organisation’s mission. For organisations seeking ways to drive engagement in their member base, interactive content is the perfect way to strike a balance [...]
With almost 70% of the global population now using the internet, accessibility is becoming an increasingly prominent focus in the development space. Simply put, websites need to cater to everyone, regardless of impairments or disabilities. Accessibility isn’t an optional feature, either, but a requirement under UK law for both public and private organisations. Site [...]
Julian Davis is MemberWise Ambassador for Finance and Operations and the Chief Operating Officer at World Commerce and Contracting. He has been leading the development of a new AI assistant for members called ‘Ask Tim’, launched at their annual conference in October. World CC is moving to the unified member experience platform ReadyMembership and [...]
Keeping members engaged and encouraging renewals is essential but can be challenging. Communication trends play a major role in how effectively appeals and renewals perform, especially as members’ preferences continue to evolve. Using a mix of print and digital communication channels can help improve engagement and retention, and research backs this up. For example, [...]
Digital Marketing is a useful tool to reach out to new members, drive engagement and promote events. Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, especially through platforms like Google Ads and Meta, can offer a quick way to reach a targeted audience. PPC is a complex subject and it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Running a time-bound PPC [...]
Your members’ long-term loyalty determines your organisation’s development, stability and success. Creating genuine loyalty means figuring out what makes members stay involved and invested. We’ll discuss some of these member loyalty motivators and how you can leverage them. 6 Member Loyalty Drivers Below are six things that help make members loyal, with actionable advice [...]
With the latest MemberWise Digital Excellence report revealing that nearly half (46%) of all UK membership organisations now have an online community, it's clear to see that these platforms are becoming essential for adding member value. A successful online community can be a powerful tool to strengthen relationships, foster more collaboration, and even attract [...]
In today’s digitally connected world, offering members a choice between print and digital communications is essential to meet diverse preferences and maximise engagement. A multi-channel strategy that includes both methods can enhance member satisfaction, build loyalty, and ensure messages are effectively received. While some members value the convenience of digital communication, others appreciate the [...]
No-one is busier than a busy Internal Auditor! During a round table meeting last week, we heard this phrase more than once. The small team of internal audit guests told us their role was to enhance and protect organisational value by providing risk-based and objective assurance, advice, and insight. In today’s complex landscape, the need for internal audit (IA) [...]
Businesses must continuously evaluate and adapt their strategies to stay relevant and competitive. Digital transformation assessments help organisations review their progress and plan their future digital plans. A critical question many leaders face is whether to conduct this assessment internally or seek an independent review. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of digital [...]
The first interactions a new member has with your organisation are critical. A seamless, engaging onboarding experience can set the scene for their entire membership journey, ensuring they feel welcomed, informed, and connected from day one. Marketing automation is a powerful tool that allows membership organisations to deliver personalised, timely, and consistent communications throughout [...]
Retaining engaged and loyal members remains a persistent challenge for many membership organisations. While tangible benefits play a crucial role, understanding the psychology behind member retention is the true game-changer. In this blog, we’ll explore five powerful psychological drivers behind member retention and keeping them committed to your organisation. 1. The Peak-End Rule The [...]
Creating lasting mutual value with measurable impact is a big bold ambition for many business leaders, we know this is a passion and a key driver for you as leaders of member organisations committed to making this a reality. This article looks at realising ambitions, getting concrete with actions and how to build the [...]
Overview Membership organisations must offer more than just basic benefits to attract and retain members. A compelling value proposition is the key to standing out and resonating with your target audience. This blog explores the essential steps to craft a membership value proposition that speaks directly to your members' needs, leverages your unique strengths, [...]
Interview with: Darren Shepherd, National Membership Directior, British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF) Chair of the “Member value, growth and retention” stream 1. Please can you tell us a bit about your association and your role there? British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF) is the largest trade association for the wider printing industry in the UK with [...]
Like never before, today membership organisations have a wealth of information at their fingertips. Collecting data in isolation though is not enough, you need to analyse and interpret it effectively to improve member retention. In this blog we will explore how data analytics can help you understand your members better, predict and prevent churn, [...]
In a sector where you're constantly asked to do more with less, your time is one of your most valuable assets. With an array of open AI tools available—many of which are free or low-cost—it’s never been easier to streamline tasks. But which tools are best suited to your specific needs, and how can [...]
It goes without saying that digital platforms are rapidly evolving. Many of us remember our early websites and may cringe at how they compare to today's versions. With the rise of mobile use, responsive design, and evolving web technologies, organisations must now keep their platforms modern and secure. However, this pace of change also [...]
It’s no secret—protecting and securing data is critical for all businesses, whether you're a small membership organisation or a large trade association, and this includes safeguarding your members' information. With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, many organisations are now turning to Security by Design (SbD) as a core part of their software development strategy. [...]
Engaging with members is essential for promoting loyalty and long-term relationships. A well-defined content strategy will allow your organisation to deliver personalised and consistent messaging that speaks directly to your members. This article will walk you through the steps to develop, maintain and continuously optimise a Content Strategy that drives meaningful member engagement. 1. [...]
Ever caught yourself saying "skibidi dob dob" and then realising, wait, that's not even a thing? Or perhaps you've come across terms like "yeet," "finsta," or "no cap," and felt a wave of confusion? You're not alone! Language evolves rapidly, and keeping up with the latest slang can feel like chasing a TikTok trend. [...]
Introduction With the technological advances of recent times, Membership organisations face a set of new challenges but also opportunities when it comes to engaging with their members. Whether it’s a professional association, a non-for-profit, or a community-driven group, understanding member needs and designing personalised experiences can significantly enhance engagement and satisfaction. A Digital Strategy [...]
Overview Membership organisations possess a wealth of data that can fuel growth and enhance member satisfaction. However, simply collecting information isn't enough. The true value lies in transforming this data into actionable insights. This blog post explores how organisations can leverage analytics to drive membership growth, improve experiences, and create personalised strategies that boost [...]
We are now pleased to announce that we have appointed a new Ambassador in the area of Community – Introducing Kayleigh Mapstone, Head of Membership and Projects at British Mensa. Let’s get to know Kayleigh (and the high profile professional body that she currently works for) who’ll be championing this crucial/developing area of activity… [...]
We are now pleased to announce that we have appointed a new Ambassador in the area of Mentoring – Introducing Paul Roberts, Director of Membership at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Let’s get to know Paul (and the high profile professional body that he currently works for) who’ll be championing this crucial/developing [...]
Ask a question : Knock, knock AI Virtual Assistant : Whose there? Ask a question : Aldo AI Virtual Assistant : Aldo anything for you ….. Conversational search, or ‘ask a question’, transforms search into a more natural and interactive experience thanks to AI. Instead of relying on keywords, users can ask questions in [...]
Interview with: Wendy Eley, Group Operations Director, Civil Service Sports Council (CSSC) Chair of the “Membership Strategy & Engagement” stream As we gear up for Membership Excellence 2024, we’re thrilled to have Wendy Eley, Group Operations Director at Civil Service Sports Council (CSSC) on board as Chair of the "Membership Strategy & Engagement" stream. [...]
Overview There is huge potential for membership organisations to leverage AI and machine learning to predict and prevent member churn. By analysing member data and behaviour patterns, organisations can identify at-risk members and implement targeted retention strategies. This post explores how AI enhances member engagement and retention, focusing on predictive analytics, personalised experiences, and [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
Supercharge Member Engagement: 5 Strategies for High-Impact Education Craft Content That Clicks for Your Members The members your association supports want to learn and improve their professional career development. However, they are likely overwhelmed by information and demands on their time. They need training that captures their attention and delivers real value. Crafting [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
Membership organisations are turning to strategic partnerships to boost member engagement and retention. By collaborating with complementary businesses and service providers, organisations can expand their value proposition and offer unique benefits and value-added services for members. Elevating Member Engagement Through Strategic Partnerships Membership organisations are always seeking innovative ways to enhance their value proposition [...]
Trustees are a critical part of the governance structure in associations. According to the Charity Commission: “Trustees have overall control of a charity and are responsible for making sure it’s doing what it was set up to do…[they] are the people who lead the charity and decide how it is run.” That is an [...]
There continues to be a lot of discussion on the impact of Artificial Intelligence on membership management. However, this year’s MemberWise digital excellence reported that “a large number of membership bodies are yet to automate basic systems, processes and tasks”. It therefore seems that many membership bodies are still not making use of the [...]
Ever feel like your membership engagement could use a boost? Well you’re not alone. The Memberwise Digital Excellence (2024) Report revealed that enhancing engagement is a priority for many membership organisations today. That’s because we live in a world of rich digital experiences. With countless options available to the modern consumer, engagement is a [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
In the fast-evolving landscape of membership associations, the ability to adapt and grow is paramount. Central to this adaptability is the use of data, research and insights. For any membership association aiming to serve its members effectively, remain relevant, and sustain long-term growth, research isn't just beneficial—it's essential. Looking inwards Research provides the tools [...]
While a CRM is essential for managing member relationships, several supplementary tools can significantly enhance your membership organisation’s capabilities. These tools not only provide richer and more comprehensive services to members but also offer insights for continuous improvement and strategic decision-making. Let’s take a look at a few additional and complementary tools in more [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
Today’s professionals – the busy members your association serves – are navigating information overload. Their inboxes are overflowing, to-do lists seem never-ending, and fitting in time for professional development can feel like an impossible task. We all know the struggle. You spend hours sitting through a lengthy training session, attempting to absorb all the [...]
In an increasingly competitive landscape, membership organisations across various sectors are turning to creative marketing campaigns to differentiate themselves and engage their target audiences. These campaigns are essential not just for attracting new members, but also for maintaining relevance and strengthening brand identity. This article explores the key elements of successful creative marketing campaigns. [...]
‘Innovate, experiment, monitor and control’ is an often used mantra within GenAI. Everyone is testing AI concepts, learning through trial and error while looking for the competitive advantage. There often is not one solution, but an ecosystem of technology to unlock data and AI opportunities. Patience will also be a virtue as AI Governance [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
Introduction As technology and mobile devices become ubiquitous, positive digital experiences have become sacred for modern consumers. A digital-first strategy that leverages technology to create seamless, personalised experiences is a critical element of member retention. Yet, a genuine shift in perspective that completely transforms how you engage with your members is necessary for a [...]
Over the past decade, the landscape of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) has undergone a significant transformation. As continuous research by The CPD Standards Office suggests, CPD was traditionally viewed as a shared responsibility between employees and employers, with the financial burden primarily on the employer. Today, this dynamic has shifted dramatically. Professionals are increasingly [...]
When member acquisition is a high priority, it’s easy to look at simple marketing levers like paid search and paid social as the answer. Drive more traffic to the site, raise awareness of the organisation and in turn generate more sign ups. It really can be that easy. However, it’s not the most sustainable [...]
We’re pleased to announce that leading sector membership CRM and digital services provider, oomi, has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and their alignment with the network. As an Official Partner (2024) oomi demonstrates its firm commitment to enabling membership [...]
Membership organisations can only thrive when their members are actively participating. However, like any other entity experiences – be it a business or otherwise – over time people will become inactive. At first, lapsed members may seem a problem. When in fact they represent a significant opportunity for growth and renewal. In this blog [...]
We often get asked about the key differences and advantages of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and Generative Business Intelligence (GenBI). It can be confusing with all the jargon that arrives with new technology. Generative Business Intelligence is the interconnection of Generative AI with specific business data. It uses the power of organisational documents and [...]
AI has the potential to unlock significant value for membership organisations and transform the way they work. As MemberWise’s digital excellence report highlighted, 100% of membership bodies believe that AI will play an important role in the next 3 years. AI isn’t just about automating tasks; it’s about empowering your workforce and your members [...]
Earlier this month, we wrote a post in response to the Digital Excellence Report, more specifically on how 100% of Membership Organisations think that AI will have an impact on membership within 3 years. This time, we wanted to combine these thoughts to address another key trend from the report, namely the need for [...]
From experience, we have come to see how the success of a web project often hinges on the quality of the web hosting service it uses. Whether your membership organisation is building a brochure site, an e-commerce site, or a complex web application, choosing the right web hosting provider is crucial. This decision impacts [...]
Like most things, the way membership organisations engage with their members has been transformed by today’s digital world. Smartphones are the primary means of communication and interaction. Which means one thing; organisations must leverage mobile technology to enhance member engagement. In this blog post, we'll look at the impact mobile technology has had on [...]
Establishing a robust PR and communications plan is important for membership organisations, having the potential to play a vital role in achieving core objectives. Whether these goals are around attracting new members, demonstrating value to existing members, supporting key strategic initiatives, or obtaining essential funding, a strong PR strategy can support. However, with so [...]
Understanding and preparing for effective cultural change Culture is a well-used term in business but McKinsey’s definition as "how we do things around here" is probably still the most accurate. This factor critically affects any organisation’s ability to efficiently respond and adapt to shifting market environments so in many cases, culture may have the [...]
If you’re considering how to deliver even more value to your association members, boost engagement to retain existing members, and attract new members to sign up, scalable online training could be your competitive edge. 72% of peoplesay their top reasons to join an association are continuing education, professional certification and learning new professional skills. [...]
A guide to understanding systems conditions and the role of management All too often, the refinement of current processes in search of improvements is like rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic. We’re making changes and things certainly appear to be different after each revision, yet the ship’s course remains about the same. After a [...]
How to change your thinking to avoid being mauled by rising expectations and tightened resources Whilst the years since the pandemic have been challenging for membership organisations, all but the most optimistic business leaders believe they’re about to get even harder. In the UK, all businesses are facing a considerable level of uncertainty caused [...]
How to define, empower and execute effectively in complex change management projects After completing an organisational or technology change, there are two things that every membership body comes to understand. Firstly, regular change is essential to continuous improvement and to staying relevant in a competitive sector. And secondly, the process required to achieve this [...]
The MemberWise Network has revised and refreshed the MemberWise Network mobile app in partnership with Cantarus, an Official MemberWise Network Partner. The app, originally released in 2019, has undergone a significant upgrade consistent with the expansion of the MemberWise digital estate. Higher Logic community content, now facilitated as a social feed, continues to lead [...]
How did IGEM harness their technology to optimise its data and grow its membership by 180%? In May 2024, in a room buzzing with a morning of learning and much note-taking, Carl Stokes, Head of Corporate Affairs and Operations at IGEM and Alex Skinner, Chief Executive of Pixl8 Group shared their digital change story [...]
Richard Gott Membership Sector Influencer & Thought Leader Following the UK General Election being announced on Wednesday 22nd May 2024 professional bodies and trade associations across the country should now publish their respective manifestos and priorities to ensure they align or call-out key issue/omissions of those published by the next UK government. Not enough [...]
Four ways for membership organisations to successfully achieve the change they need. Today, the pressure on membership organisations is greater than ever as they face two opposing challenges. On the one hand, they need to drive growth and income in order to compete. Throughout the past year, the MemberWise network has again highlighted member [...]
In today’s digital era, the collective power of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) can revolutionise the way membership organisations operate. These technologies serve as catalysts for profound change, offering unparalleled opportunities for automation, personalisation, and security enhancement and thus reshaping the landscape of member experiences. AI is built around the concept of [...]
‘Generative AI can hugely boost research, but its use demands transparency and responsibility.’ Iliana Ivanova, EU Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth Many of us are now deep in exam and dissertation season and when asked, we probably get the same student response, ‘Oh I used ChatGPT to help write that.’ The [...]
A strong sense of community not only attracts and retains members, it also encourages engagement and collaboration within your organisation. Most memberships centre around an idea; be that a career, cause or charity. A community strengthens the links of these common interests between your members. In this post, we’ll explore key strategies for building [...]
As ever, this year’s MemberWise Digital Excellence Report showcased some fascinating insights into the current status quo and future thinking of Membership Organisations on a range of topics. At iota-ML, the most striking takeaways were that; 100% of Membership Organisations believe AI will have an impact on membership in the next three years, and [...]
There are many challenges involved in demonstrating the ROI of member education, from aligning training with organisational objectives, tracking and measuring the right data, to communicating the value of education programs to association leaders. I recently sat down with Richard Gott, Chair of the Memberwise network to discuss how to demonstrate the ROI of [...]
In today's digital age, data has become the cornerstone of decision-making and strategy formulation across various sectors. From commercial enterprises to non-profit membership organisations, harnessing the power of data can unlock unprecedented opportunities for growth, engagement, and impact. In this blog, we delve into the insights presented in our recently published white paper written [...]
In today's interconnected world, where digital platforms have become ubiquitous, organisations must harness the power of technology to foster meaningful engagement with all members, regardless of their backgrounds or identities. Whether you're running a community organisation, a professional association, or a business, prioritising digital engagement strategies can significantly enhance member satisfaction, retention, and overall [...]
We know that properly informing proposed strategies and tactics for membership growth requires a high level of audience research. When we fully understand our existing audience, it allows us to effectively target like-minded individuals, equalling a higher new member conversion rate. But what are some of the best ways to accomplish this? We recommend [...]
In the constantly evolving realm of digital experience, one pressing question emerges: Are we clinging to outdated paradigms in our approach to designing member experiences? Let's acknowledge it: website design and publishing technology have seen mostly incremental improvements over the past two decades, and these advances have contributed to user experiences that provide value [...]
In today's digital landscape, membership organisations face a constant battle: retaining existing members, keeping them engaged, and attracting new ones. A strong online presence is crucial for success, but how do you navigate the ever-changing digital landscape? This article explores the three pillars of success for membership organisations – retention, engagement, and growth – [...]
In today's fast-paced digital world, UK-based membership organisations face the challenge of retaining members and staying relevant within their industries. However, by harnessing the power of data-driven strategies, these organisations can not only overcome digital challenges but also thrive and grow. In this article, we delve into some exciting tactics that can help boost [...]
When it comes to member experience, organisations often share two core challenges. They don’t know what their members expect or need, and they don’t know how to measure if they’re delivering on those needs. This doesn’t need to drain your resources, but done well, it will move the dial on your member value, acquisition [...]
It’s more important than ever for membership organisations to provide real value for money to their paying subscribers – and brand partnerships are key to achieving this. Forming brand partnerships – where you team up with complementary brands to provide access to products or services beyond the core offering of your organisation – is [...]
With the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in mobile apps, apps are becoming more personalised and user-centric than ever. Apps incorporating advanced AI features outperformed the app market in 2023, with an impressive 11% year-on-year growth. Apps like Duolingo and Expedia have set the benchmarks for leveraging AI to enhance user experiences, but what [...]
An effective mentoring program could prove to be an important benefit to both existing and prospective members. Mentoring provides the critical edge that can mark the difference between career success and failure. Implementing a mentoring program for members can have benefits for both the members and the organisations who run them. Let’s look at [...]
In today's landscape, digital transformation isn't an option, it's a necessity. But rushing headlong into a necessarily complex process can lead to costly detours, frustrating dead ends and unsatisfactory results. Before embarking on a transformative journey, all organisations must prepare themselves, like explorers mapping a challenging terrain, to maximise their chances of success. Here, [...]
Hey there, fellow digital enthusiasts! As we gear up for another exciting conference at Digital Excellence, we wanted to take a moment to share some insights into our experiences while working with multiple membership organisations and how we assist them with their communications. For those who don't know us yet, we have been regulars [...]
In the ever-changing world of technology, many Membership Organisations become reliant on “legacy applications”, which are built on outdated technology and struggle to keep up with modern demands. This can severely hamper a Membership Organisation’s ability to grow and effectively engage with their members. In this article, we’ll explore the challenges of legacy applications, [...]
LinkedIn is full of how to start your Artificial Intelligence (AI) journey but, as with many hype-cycle technology events, a few experienced heads just say - ‘walk don’t run!’ Everywhere you look at the moment AI is part of our daily news and if you listen to the posts, you need to be thinking [...]
For membership organisations providing professional certifications to their members, leveraging credentials, certification programs, and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) presents a valuable opportunity to elevate what they offer. In today's landscape, integrating modern learning technology is critical to enhancing certification programs effectively. A robust certification program serves as a conduit for organisations to impart essential [...]
Member satisfaction is essential for successful membership organisations. Understanding and meeting member needs is crucial for long-term growth and sustainability. Which is exactly why feedback loops are one of the most effective strategies for gaining valuable insights into member preferences. In this post, we'll explore how membership organisations can rely on feedback loops to [...]
Member portals can be a game changer. Simply put, a portal is a web interface requiring sign-up that can act as a central hub to access features such as self service account management and member services and benefits. They provide all manner of new opportunities both internally and externally, and today we’ll be taking [...]
Everyone knows Netflix. This entertainment mammoth has wowed millions of people with the most engaging and professional content. As a side note, have you binge-watched their new TV show "3 Body Problem"? If not, you should! This streaming service can take its toll in a variety of ways, even in the most unexpected ones. [...]
Engaging a web development agency is one of the crucial steps that membership organisations that are looking to customise or enhance their digital presence have to undertake. However, the success of such collaborations depends not only on the agency's expertise but also on how effectively you work with them. In this article, we highlight [...]
Membership organisations encounter numerous challenges in striving to deliver optimal user experience across a diverse range of individuals and groups. Striking the right balance involves delivering content and experiences that foster a sense of belonging among members, while also catering to the varied needs and preferences of each individual. Effective personalisation of content, based [...]
1. Please can you tell us a bit about your association and your role there? IOSH (the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) is the Chartered professional body and charity with over 50,000 safety and health professionals worldwide. Put simply, IOSH believes that everyone should be safe from harm at their place of work. [...]
If you're a membership organisation, attracting new members – and keeping them loyal – is one of your top priorities. But without a compelling (and distinctive!) member value proposition, you'll struggle to do it. In this article, Consider’s Strategy Director Amy Nield outlines three key areas that will help make your member value proposition [...]
Please can you tell us a bit about your association and your role there? I'm Director of Profession for the CIPD. We are the professional body for HR and People Development professionals and we are over 100 years young and 160,000 members strong. My role is to make sure that the needs of the [...]
Effective acquisition strategies are the backbone of sustainable growth and financial stability for membership organisations. A growing member base provides a reliable revenue stream to cover operational costs and budget initiatives that boost KPIs like engagement and retention. New members bring diverse expertise, perspectives, and connections that bolster an organisation’s influence, credibility, and ability [...]
We’re pleased to announce that leading sector software company, WATTLE, has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and their alignment with the network. As an Official Partner (2024) WATTLE demonstrates its firm commitment to enabling membership bodies to drive improved [...]
As a membership organisation you are constantly striving to increase value for your members. You want to grow your membership base as well as retaining the members you already have, so you can keep on offering a deep and rich source of benefit to everyone involved. Achieving these goals requires an in-depth understanding of [...]
We’re pleased to announce that D2L has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and their alignment with the network. As an Official Partner (2024) D2L demonstrates its commitment to enabling high quality learning/development for membership/association professionals, optimised and focused networking/sharing [...]
1. Please can you tell us a bit about your current role at Microsoft? I work with the state of Switzerland for Microsoft. This includes various things from licensing, technology advice, security briefings to Artificial Intelligence. The role of Account Technology Strategist is one of the broadest roles in Microsoft. I like to say [...]
Embarking on a website rebuild or redesign journey is an exciting prospect. It's like renovating your digital home, breathing new life into your online presence and potentially unlocking a higher level of engagement and conversion. But before the bulldozers of code and creativity arrive, a crucial step lies ahead: crafting a clear and informative [...]
As we step into 2024, communication and marketing directors in membership organisations are navigating a landscape marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving member expectations. So mastering the art of personalised communication and leveraging the power of videography are not just options but necessities. We delve into the key challenges membership organisations and association [...]
High-quality content is essential for a successful membership organisation. It's what sets you apart, connects you to your members and helps you build a loyal following. When you create high-quality content, you're not just providing value, you’re saying “We’re like you, we’re working for you and we’re in this together’. You're giving them something [...]
If your members can’t see that they are getting value from their subscription fee, they will quickly lose interest. That’s why continuing education is arguably the most important part of any association’s offering. A strong training and education program gives members the opportunity to learn valuable skills and knowledge in a consistent and standardised [...]
We’re pleased to announce that leading digital agency, Cantarus, has been recognised as an Official Network Partner by MemberWise for the seventh consecutive year. This is testament to Cantarus’ year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and their close alignment with the network. As an Official Partner (2024), Cantarus [...]
In the UK, Millennials and Generation Z now make up most of the workforce. Membership organisations need to attract these demographics to ensure long term sustainability. But that’s easier said than done. The expectations of traditional audiences are very different from generations brought up or born in the digital age. Understand Your Audience The [...]
We’re pleased to announce that leading digital technology group, Pixl8, has been recognised as an Official Network Partner by MemberWise for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector. Pixl8, whose products – such as ReadyMembership – are developed specifically for the membership sector, bring together in-depth technical knowledge [...]
Understanding your members is essential. Knowing why they choose to join and renew, what they value, what challenges they face and support they may require, and how they would like to see their organisation progress and improve can lead to better levels of member engagement, satisfaction, and improved retention rates. This insight can be [...]
It’s a new year, and a great time to assess your membership recruitment strategies, and the role of your marketing function in growing AND retaining your members. It is crucial for association leaders to be proactive in understanding and harnessing emerging and strengthening trends to effectively recruit and engage with a shifting membership base. [...]
We have just said farewell to another busy year for our network. Amongst an array of fantastic learning events we continued to support workforce development through our exclusive service, MemberWise Jobs. Continued growth and activity across the sector has driven a strong need to strengthen and develop teams with people who have sector expertise [...]
A key benefit of being a Member or a Fellow of a professional body is gaining enhanced professional status. Typically this gained following a period of training/qualification and/or meeting set criteria of membership/fellowship. So, how can members outwardly display enhanced professional status? Usually this is done via a physical or virtual certificate, listing on [...]
The recent MemberWise Digital Excellence Report for 2023/24 showed how a lack of system integration and poor data management in the membership sector was holding organisations back. It’s a technical subject that you may not be too familiar with. So, as we’re feeling festive, we decided to explain it through the medium of Santa’s [...]
PPC Advertising for Membership Acquisition: Precision Targeting Strategies In today's fast-paced digital landscape, membership organisations are constantly seeking innovative ways to attract and retain members. One of the most effective targeting strategies in their arsenal is Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising. Coupled with the smart use of remarketing, it can have amazing results. This dynamic duo [...]
Membership organisations and associations play a crucial role in developing communities within their respective industries. However, some people may walk away without positive experiences. In some cases, individuals find themselves dissatisfied or disengaged after a poor experience, leading them to reassess their memberships. Today, we’ll explore some of the key causes of poor membership [...]
As membership organisations embrace digital, and the positive impact this can have on their business, there are various challenges to overcome. Building a new site or updating an existing one comes with huge benefits to your organisation, but ensuring the project runs smoothly and ultimately delivers isn’t always as easy as it should be. [...]
Have you ever fallen into the trap of thinking a task would be quick and straightforward, only to find it spiralling in scale and scope? In event management, this is venue-sourcing to a ‘T’. Many professionals get caught out by the extensive time and effort needed to find the right venue. On the surface, [...]
Technology is an important part of how membership organisations and associations work. It can simplify membership management and improve member engagement through personalised experiences. In this article, we’ll be discussing how toxic technology is holding back membership organisations. What is Legacy Technology? Technology that isn’t fit for purpose, is non-compliant, hard to integrate with, [...]
The MemberWise Digital Excellence Report was published in October this year and gave a unique snapshot of the current and emerging digital trends in the sector. As a technology partner to several membership bodies, we love taking a dive into the industry and finding out what makes membership professionals tick and what is holding [...]
In today's digital world, membership organisations must provide reliable, fast, and secure online services to meet member expectations. Your website, membership management, CRM, analytics, and e-learning platforms must be resilient, scalable, and always available. Building and managing your own infrastructure requires large upfront investments, ongoing maintenance, hardware procurement and upgrades. You can avoid these [...]
Membership organisations today are focusing on retaining and encouraging existing members while simultaneously aiming for growth and acquiring new members. The objective is to strike a balance between maintaining a strong core of engaged members who share the organisation's values and mission, while actively expanding the membership base. This dual approach is driven by [...]
MemberWise has published its latest Digital Excellence Report 2023/24 (DigX 23/24) detailing the membership and association sector's progress in developing focused strategies for digital tools and services. The report is based on an industry-wide survey conducted by MemberWise in summer 2023 which received 807 responses from membership professionals working in over 600 organisations. A [...]
The world is becoming an increasingly complex place. Businesses must meet "modern consumer" needs or risk falling behind. But, “What does the modern consumer want?" The simple answer is memorable experiences. To create a memorable member experience, membership organisations and associations must go beyond the face value of membership to provide a unique member [...]
Creating an engaging and rewarding user experience is critical in a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions. This is especially true for membership websites looking to maintain and grow their user base. One method that has gained traction in recent years is "gamification." Gamification uses game-like elements and principles in non-game contexts to motivate [...]
Membership organisations are a great way to build brand communities and bring people together around a common interest. In the UK alone, there are an estimated 8,000 membership organisations and associations (with memberships of over 1,000 individuals/organisations) and around 80% of the population belongs to some kind of membership organisation/association. But what is the [...]
In today's fast-paced world, membership organisations have a significant role to play beyond offering services or benefits to their members. Ensuring the physical, mental, and financial wellbeing of their members is not only an ethical obligation but also a strategic imperative that can benefit both the members and the organisation itself. On average, membership [...]
In the realm of organisational improvement, it's all too common to shy away from confronting uncomfortable truths. Marketers and data analysts, especially those not deeply embedded in the world of membership, sometimes avoid confronting the lurking spectres of negative statistics and perceptions. However, if you're seeking growth, vitality, and evolution for your membership base, [...]
The highly anticipated MemberWise Digital Excellence Report 2023/24 was published earlier this week and once again provided an insightful delve into the current landscape of the membership sector. There were a lot of findings to take away from the report, with 32 pages of statistics, recommendations and industry insights to absorb. It was great [...]
Engagement scoring is a powerful tool that membership bodies use to measure the level of engagement of their members Identifying key metrics to boost member engagement Engagement scoring is a powerful tool that membership bodies use to measure the level of engagement of their members. It involves assigning scores to various member interactions, such [...]
The key to achieving sustainable growth is retaining members for the long term. Many membership organisations strive for continuous growth but fail to achieve it. In this blog, we’ll explore ten actionable strategies to enhance membership retention for your organisation. Why Membership Retention Matters Membership retention is just as much about building a strong [...]
And Why Mental Health Should Be A Year-Round Commitment for Membership Organisations As we mark World Mental Health Day, membership organisations have a unique opportunity to champion mental health and make a lasting impact on their members' lives. Mental health support should not be limited to a single day but should be a year-round [...]
In the current climate, there is a big push for increased digitalisation. Teams are expected to do more with fewer resources, challenging Membership organisations globally to adapt quickly to the new norm to meet their overall goals and members' expectations. In this article, we share with you approaches that other leading Membership organisations are [...]
Drafting a new job description or updating an existing job description can be a challenge. It is critical to include an accurate person specification and include all the key responsibilities included within the role. How can you be sure you have covered off all the essential areas? Does the wording make sense? Is there [...]
Get ready to embark on a captivating journey. A rock 'n' roll revolution in the world of photography. Imagine your photography as the resonating guitar solo that sends an anthem soaring to new heights. We've all encountered cringeworthy images that stand out like a discordant note in a symphony, not to mention stock photos [...]
Membership Organisations are becoming more astute at managing their domestic payments and receipts as more and more payment types are introduced and automation becomes easier. However, whilst international solutions are catching up with domestic capability, Organisations should be aware of the costs they are currently incurring when collecting membership, exam and sundry fees and [...]
- Thursday 19th October 2023 / Novotel London West Hotel - www.membershipexcellence.com We’re pleased to announce that Price Bailey LLP will once again partner with the MemberWise Network to launch the Influence 100 Financial Benchmarking Report at Membership Excellence 2023 (19th October / London). The report is sponsored by ClearCourse. This year the conference [...]
It’s no great secret that the membership sector has undergone significant change in the last few years, thanks to a natural evolution of technology and external environmental and global factors. More so than ever, associations play a vital role in bringing together like-minded individuals, professionals, and enthusiasts. However, a critical challenge that many associations [...]
MemberWise. It started off as a bit of a hobby and 15 years later has become the largest and most vibrant free professional network for membership and association professionals based in the UK; some 8,000 amazing and dedicated professionals working for circa 3,000 leading membership bodies. Here’s our story… My name’s Richard Gott (Rich) [...]
The examination marking process presents several operational challenges, particularly for professional membership bodies who still mark physical papers or use spreadsheets to keep on top of all the papers out for marking. Whether it’s to achieve accreditation or for their continued professional development (CPD), your assessments are an important part of your offering to [...]
Membership Body Trustee Reports, white papers, committee presentations, annual reports, member toolkits... the world is full of them. However, quality can often be a vulnerability and we’ve all spotted obvious mistakes or clunky artwork that turns a presentation into a punchline. At best, it’s merely embarrassing; at worst, it can undermine all your hard [...]
Legacy content management systems (CMS) can be a major obstacle for membership organisations that want to improve their online presence. These systems are often outdated, difficult to use, and lack the features and functionality that modern organisations need. Migrating to a new CMS can be a daunting task, but it is essential for organisations [...]
As someone who’s worked in learning technology since 2016, I’m very familiar with the challenge many membership organisations face of keeping up with the latest market developments in the space. User demands continue to evolve, and learners expect more and more from the learning platforms they use. It’s also a really exciting time in [...]
Did you know that, on average, 31% of an organisation's technology is comprised of legacy systems? A legacy system is a piece of software or application built on outdated technology that remains vital to a business's core functions. While these systems may serve their purpose, they often lack the agility and user-friendliness needed to [...]
In the dynamic world of membership, we strive not just for numbers but for a passionate community of committed members. They are the driving force behind your organisation’s success – propelling your goals forward and amplifying your message. Cultivating engaged members holds the key to unleashing your organisation's full potential, to make a lasting [...]
Retaining members is cheaper and easier than finding new ones. Better yet, doing it well generates word-of-mouth, brings your brand to new audiences and convinces others to take the next step. But how do you retain those members and turn them into repeat purchasers and brand advocates? Email marketing Despite rapid development and change [...]
Earlier this year, we embarked on an ambitious programme to develop our successful MemberWise Ambassador Programme to further champion best practice and professionalism with the next generation of membership and association professionals. Our aim was to double the current number. We believe that common roles within membership organisations and associations need to be represented [...]
The digital world is at the forefront of most businesses. Digital plays a role in a brand’s growth and those who don’t keep up will ultimately be left behind. But, acknowledging the need to evolve with digital and doing it are two different things. Certain sectors face more challenges than others when embracing digital [...]
Introduction In today's digital age, membership organisations and charities face unique challenges in reaching and engaging their target audience. Limited budgets and resources often make it difficult to compete for attention in a crowded landscape. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising presents a powerful tool that can help organisations overcome these obstacles and increase their impact. In [...]
There is a newcomer to the social media scene that has the potential to revolutionise the way membership organisations engage with their audience and industry peers. Threads, the new social media platform introduced by Meta, holds exciting promise for membership organisations and associations seeking to foster meaningful connections, spark topical discussions, and truly tap [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
There is so much AI content everywhere I look! As a member-based organisation, do we still need to be discussing how to harness AI for everything from boosting member engagement to automation? Well, yes. Only 12% are using AI at a maturity level that achieves a strong competitive advantage. Accenture When only 12% are using AI [...]
Understanding the advantages of 'managed software as a service' (MSaaS) and 'software as a service' (SaaS) is essential for membership associations seeking tailored technology solutions. While the terms 'MSaaS' and 'SaaS' may initially seem similar, it is crucial to understand their distinctions to make informed decisions when seeking tailored technology solutions. 'SaaS', or software [...]
The rapid advancement of AI technology presents big opportunities for membership bodies in the UK. By embracing AI, membership bodies can revolutionise their operations, enhance member experiences, and drive innovation in a number of different areas eg: 1. Streamlining Operations and Efficiency: Membership bodies often grapple with time-consuming administrative tasks, such as managing databases, [...]
A lot of industries still have legacy systems as part of their critical IT infrastructure, despite the many risks associated with them. The membership sector is no different. In fact, the 2021 MemberWise Digital Excellence Report showed that legacy association management systems were one of the factors that were holding organisations back. It also [...]
As the summer sun shines brightly, membership marketers should seize the opportunity to optimise their marketing strategies for the busy autumn season. The summer months provide a relatively slower period, allowing marketers to shift their focus inward and gain valuable insights from their existing database. By dedicating time to understand their audience better and [...]
Your members value your publications - but what can you do when the cost of producing and delivering membership communications is spiralling out of hand? If the cost of delivering regular, engaging content to your membership is threatening the future of your publishing programme, you’re not alone. With print and postage prices rising year [...]
With the lush greenness of summer upon us, now is the perfect time to check out how your membership is growing …and to weed out any problems. Just the right time to ensure your membership continues to bloom. Running a successful membership organisation relies heavily on attracting and retaining passionate members. Now, more than [...]
Cloud document management solutions can transform how membership associations operate. By managing the storage and access to files and electronic communications more effectively, membership organisations can migrate from traditional paper-based systems or SharePoint to a cloud-based document management solution and enhance accessibility, streamline collaboration, ensure data security, and reduce overall costs. This blog post [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
At the start of this year’s MemberWise conference, delegates were asked how many thought that AI would be used in the membership sector in the next 3 years. A jaw droppingly minute 15% of respondents thought that it would, leaving 85% of respondents considering it irrelevant. Yet the insurmountable rise of AI across other [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
Given the ongoing cost-of-living crisis in the UK, businesses, including membership organisations, must be more careful with their budgets. The current climate is understandably making it difficult for organisations to attract and retain members. Most of us are cutting costs where we can, and things like non-compulsory membership subscriptions, or perceived 'nice to haves' [...]
MemberWise is pleased to welcome new Network Partner, D2L, in recognition of it's year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the membership and association sector, and its alignment with the network. D2L is the network’s first Learning Management System (LMS) provider to become an Official Network Partner (2023). The MemberWise Network is an independent [...]
Let’s start off with what you probably already know: Off the Shelf Membership Solutions software is a pre-built solution with features and functionality that’s ready to go, while bespoke software is custom-built to meet an organisation’s specific needs. With bespoke software, you’re in control of everything: the features, what tasks you can perform, the [...]
There are many challenges member organisations are facing today, from engagement and member retention to monetisation and data protection, to name just a few. However, regardless of the specific issue at hand, there is a consideration that must always remain front of mind; what are your member’s needs and how will we meet them. [...]
Membership organisations, including Chartered Institutes, play a pivotal role in professional standards across a wide range of sectors. To maintain efficient working practices, it’s becoming ever more important for organisations to turn to technology to help streamline operations. While current advancements in automation and AI may seem overwhelming, they actual offer myriad opportunities to [...]
For businesses and brands, community has become an increasingly hot topic over the past 30 years. It is naturally significant for membership organisations, which are involved in many of the activities that breed real community. There are, however, some misunderstandings about what the term means. Social media has contributed to its misuse and seen [...]
Why should I join you? Why should I stay with you? What are you offering that I can’t get elsewhere, and matters to me? Fundamentally, why should I choose you? Obvious questions that membership organisations have to be able to clearly answer if they are to grow and prosper. Failure to do so will ultimately lead to [...]
Microsoft Dynamics is used in the membership sector to improve operations and provide a better experience. According to the MemberWise Digital Excellence Report 2022, 36% of medium to large organisations use Microsoft Dynamics to develop their Association Management Systems. What is an Association Management System (AMS)? An Association Management System (AMS) is an all-in-one [...]
The MemberWise Recognised Supplier Directory showcases a wealth of businesses who have worked within the membership sector in some capacity. Some provide products and services solely to membership bodies, while others have membership organisations within their portfolio of clients. Each recognised supplier proudly boasts experience and knowledge within the membership sector. But how important [...]
Customer Experience (CX) is the word of the minute in the marketing space, and it is even more crucial in the membership sector as the value exchange during a challenging economic period needs to be bigger and better than ever. First and foremost, always gather information on your members, followers or customers using first [...]
As membership bodies it is important to work in a sustainable manner, to look across all of your organisation’s activity and look at how things can be done with more awareness to the impact of this activity on the planet. Events often form a key role in the yearly output of membership organisations and [...]
Social media post: Measuring the success of any project is crucial, but how can you quantifiably measure the success of an IT project? There are several ways you can do this to see how your digital investments impact your bottom line. As a senior professional, it’s important to measure the success of all major [...]
With the turn of the financial year, some organisations will be gaining access to budget earmarked for new technology. Much of this may be focused on managing your member interactions and engagement, either through a pureplay CRM (Customer Relationship Management) or as part of a wider AMS (Association Management System) solution. A scary thought [...]
Are you considering updating your website solution from Umbraco 7 to version 10 or 11? And would you like to know what’s new and how it can work for your business? In the below content we will bust some myths, talk through what you should pay attention to and discuss whether to upgrade. Let’s [...]
Knowing what services you need and finding the right person to provide them can be two very different things. We’re all been there. Spending hours and hours trawling search engines, getting recommendations from peers and colleagues, and plenty of asking around. After finally whittling your list down to three main contenders, you find out [...]
Membership organisations are gradually realising the unique value of video - especially case studies and testimonials - to help them retain and recruit members. This is because there is nothing as compelling as seeing actual members describing their lived experience. With over 89% of video marketers saying video gives them good ROI (Optimonster) and 84% [...]
A common misconception is that non-profit and membership organisations are not a target for cyberattacks. Even though your association may not have been affected by an attack, it is highly likely hackers are trying to breach your system every day. This is why associations cannot sit on their laurels as hackers are becoming more [...]
Take stock of 2022 and succeed in 2023! So we’re heading towards the end of January – and how many of us are still sticking to our New Year’s resolutions? Have you had a successful Veganuary? Or perhaps you were bold enough to go with a Dry January? I can’t say I have committed [...]
The digital world has brought both advantages and disadvantages to many membership organisations. As technology evolves, membership organisations have had to face a range of new digital challenges. Organisations must know how to manage these challenges to succeed in the modern digital age. Engagement & Retention One of the biggest challenges for membership organisations [...]
Converting or upgrading a member from student to graduate/associate/full member implies that: 1. There has been mutual engagement and a previous financial transaction. 2. The upgrade is both relevant and important to the individual concerned. 3. They are actually aware of their relationship with the professional body! Student membership for many professional bodies is [...]
Looking for your next role? Looking for great job candidates? 2022 has been a big year for MemberWise. We have seen the return of both our conferences as well as in person seminars and newly launched ‘tech insight days’, but this article focusses on how we [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
A Safe Pair of Membership Hands. Why Has This Become Such a Challenge? How many times have you heard this comment/question over the past couple of months? Far too many times I hear you cry! In this blog article we try to answer the question. The first point to make is that this challenge [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
Your objectives are clear - grow the organisation’s revenue, through diversifing from existing revenue streams, retaining more members, increasing member engagement, whilst acquiring new ones… that’s no small task for any organisation, especially in the a tough economic climate, that is getting tougher. Member requirements are changing so fast digitally, servicing existing member segments [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
Member development and growth are core factors in the success of your professional association – satisfied members help spur membership growth, better collaboration, and optimise financial performance. How can you stay true to your association’s mission and better serve your members? The answer is: Your member education and training! On the rise in our [...]
As a membership organisation/association, there will be a number of services that you could look to subcontract. You may be looking to commission new projects, and you may not have the resources to deliver these in-house. For example A new website A new membership management platform A professional conference organiser Or you may be [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
According to Marketing General, 51% of people join membership associations to learn about their industries' best practices or access specialised information. As a result, the best way for membership organisations to provide value is through the production and curation of high-quality documentation and information. Unfortunately, this is time-consuming, difficult, and fraught with risk. It’s [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
“Proactive, personal and two-way member contact is more important than ever during the current economic and employment crisis,” says Alana Turnbull, Business Development Director at Chord UK. Here are six reasons why you should prioritise personalised telephone calls to your members, so they see their membership is essential: 1. Increase Member Value Personalised conversations with members [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
Now more than ever your membership is under threat with the squeeze on budgets. Members will be asking themselves ‘can I justify renewing my membership?’ However if you are considering any discounts or promotions beware. No price is cheap enough if you don’t see the value in what you are getting, equally a higher [...]
Sometimes it’s all too easy to shy away from difficult truths about your organisation. AND some marketing agencies and data analysts (particularly those who are not membership specialists) run scared from negative statistics, perceptions and attitudes that may haunt your organisation. BUT this information is vital if you want your membership base to grow, [...]
When it comes to your membership website, it’s essential that whoever you choose to work with to support it is aligned with driving new member acquisitions and aiding you in reaching your goals. But how do you find the perfect agency fit for your organisation and team? You’re Not Alone When your website is [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
The MemberWise Digital Excellence (2022) Report identified that one of the Top 10 things getting in your way is “Inadequate reporting tools”. With unprecedented industry cost pressures, affecting not just your business, but your members too. The decisions you make for your business are more critical than ever before. The key to the best decision [...]
Mentor: Ian Oxley, Head of Supporter Recruitment, The National Trust Mentee: Sam Fletcher, Head of Membership, Equity In 2020 we launched the MemberWise Mentoring Scheme. Never before had this been available for membership and association professionals at all levels and career stages. The Network took the bold step of creating an online self-serving mentoring [...]
Whether you have a genuine interest in ‘Environmental, Social and Governance’, wish to become an ESG expert within your organisation, or haven’t yet found time to educate yourself about how best to make positive changes in this area, you should look to your suppliers for help. A proactive supplier partnership will help you plan [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
Membership renewals are often a time of stress: for the management team, because they know some will not renew; and for the back-office team too, because of what is often a slow and cumbersome renewals process. A process that can result in lots of calls from angry members. We’ve seen first-hand how broken and [...]
Do you want exceptional retention levels? Are you looking to increase your recruitment figures? If so, let me ask you: how well do you really know your members? Does everyone in your organisation know what your members look like and what keeps them engaged? Here’s how you can educate them easily and effectively! 1. SEGMENT [...]
The MemberWise Network is unique as being the only Network led by association and membership professionals. A core part of our team are the MemberWise Ambassadors; a group of practising membership professionals specialising in a specific area that we consider core and crucial to the world of membership such as engagement, recruitment and value. [...]
A recent article in The Observer ‘Young blood at the Groucho? Duh….’ by Marie Le Conte was an interesting read. ‘The Soho hangout is aiming to attract more youthful members. It’s a shame millennials like me just can’t afford the privilege’ is how she starts the piece and really, they won’t be the only [...]
It’s a trick question really because the best time was 6 months ago … failing that, last month …last week …yesterday… but we can’t go back and change the past. AND as we are a little over halfway through the year – NOW IS the best time to evaluate your member journey. How are [...]
Digital change doesn’t come easily to any organisation, there will always be challenges along the way. New or updated digital system changes can bring some amazing benefits to the organisation and its members, but can also be quite challenging to implement. When you are looking to change the organisation’s working processes, streamline practices and automate [...]
The MemberWise Digital Excellence (2022) Report found 70% of membership organisations use data to make important decisions and validate key assumptions. However, only 13% of membership bodies considered their staff to have confidence in the accuracy of available data. Bad data has many implications, from personalisation in a marketing email, to accurately reporting on [...]
Retaining members is just as important a task for membership organisations as obtaining new ones. After all, the higher your retention rate, the fewer new members you need to keep on growing! And yet one of the most significant reasons members don’t renew is simply because they forget according to MGI’s 2021 annual report. [...]
At the start of my career, I worked for the agency that created the Tesco Clubcard. Tesco wanted to get a view of their relationship with each customer – what was bought, how they paid, which shop type e.g. Express, Metro. Until that point your supermarkets never really knew what share of a shopper’s [...]
Your membership website is one of the main ways your potential member can find you. But if it’s slow, clunky or otherwise underwhelming, it’s not a great reflection on your organisation. Worse than that, poor sites are increasingly likely to get penalised in Google search results, meaning less traffic, fewer members, poor retention, and [...]
Marketing automation is a powerful tool for membership marketers. It streamlines your work and makes marketing teams more efficient, all while improving member acquisition, engagement and retention. But how do we get started automating our email marketing? Marketing automation improves productivity by 20% and can lead to significant increases in new member acquisition and [...]
The MemberWise Network is the leading free best practice network for membership and association professionals in the UK/EU. This year we embark on an ambitious programme to develop our successful MemberWise Ambassador Programme to further champion best practice and professionalism with the next generation of Membership and Association Professionals.We explain how you can get [...]
We’re pleased to announce that Wattle has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and their alignment with the network. Wattle is the leading independent integrated technology partner for membership organisations including Royal Institute of British Architects, Royal Academy of [...]
During COVID-19 the network took a break from its face-to-face events and went virtual (as most of you did) with your own respective memberships. We trialled many different ideas/projects that we would not have had the capacity/capability to deliver on, had there not been a global pandemic taking place. For example, [...]
Running a small association can be a challenging experience. You need to be an expert on your product/service, on finance, on management and leadership, on networking etc. Against that backdrop, having to manage recruitment is often viewed as a necessary evil - it needs to be done; it provides the lifeblood of your company – but no-one actually likes having [...]
Keeping momentum with creative digital strategies that engage, retain and secure your membership audience is crucial. Your member audience deserves a tailored experience that is supported by external communications that communicate the value in being your member along their relationship with your organisation. Doing this well, means developing digital strategies that entice at the [...]
Now that many delayed or postponed CRM/CMS projects are resuming with pace, we wanted to focus on topic that we see many organisations are under estimating - Project Management! Allocating adequate time to rolling out a CRM/website project can get overlooked and deprioritised; when you have put substantial time into planning and tendering this is [...]
As member interest in topics, such as Environment Social and Governance and Diversity and Inclusion, continues to increase, deploying an effective communication and engagement programme can be game-changing when it comes to delivering better member retention, acquisition and loyalty. In research conducted by Memberwise in 2021, 83% of the members surveyed expect to be [...]
Adapting to the needs of members, keeping running costs low and holding data securely are some of the main factors that drove digital transformation in the membership sector. Based on our experience, membership bodies are finding their current CRM systems and Membership Management systems are too outdated to meet their growing business requirements. The [...]
In our previous blog, we explained how data can help you monitor and understand your member retention rates. We also noted that engagement was a key factor in driving retention. So, we’ll now take a closer look at engagement – what it is and how you can measure it. Engagement is about a lot [...]
Email marketing has evolved to be a strong but fluctuating communication tool, as members and prospects (plus mail service providers) become stricter and more selective about the emails they consume, or even open. Which means being savvy and tactical about your membership organisation email list. Stories before tech To combat declining open rates, email [...]
Since we looked at how to approach acquiring suitable members for your organisation in our last blog, we’ll now turn our attention to retaining them and how analysing data can support this. The first step is to ensure you understand your retention metrics – how many members lapse each month and what percentage is [...]
Our most recent MemberWise Quick Poll temperature checked Member Email Open Rates. The poll was open for 3 weeks and 37 membership organisations/associations responded. The largest proportion of membership bodies achieved an average open rate of 21-30% of emails sent. We outline the spread of results below: Less than 4% Open-Rate (2.7%) 5% to [...]
If you follow MemberWise, you might have seen the annual Digital Excellence (2021/22) Report that dives into the current state of the digital membership space. The report discovered that although 95% of businesses cite members as expecting an experience that’s value-driven and engaging, only 35% have a strategy in place to make this happen. [...]
Scenario 1: I’m studying for a qualification in my chosen field and have been asked or advised to join a relevant professional body. Sounds like a good idea, I get access to all this valuable knowledge and information, plus it will look great on my future CV. And bonus…its free! Scenario 2: I am [...]
Today, the internet is the go-to place for membership bodies to advertise their services, and for individuals to find membership organisations. Your membership website will collect masses of membership data, including: member details, member engagement levels, event information, learning performance and much more. But how are you storing this data and what are you [...]
Whatever the size of your membership organisation, or the sector in which you operate, communication is essential for any organisation. The good news is that it’s never been easier for companies to reach out to their audiences and prospective clients. What you need, with so much opportunity, is a plan. What is a brand [...]
Our last blog looked at how data can help membership organisations understand their members better – who they are, and how and why they engage (read it here). The next few instalments in our blog series will take a closer look at how this insight can help with some key challenges: Member acquisition Member [...]
MemberWise hosts the only structured mentoring programme within the Membership and Association Sector. 2 years on MemberWise revisits what the programme has achieved and why you should consider taking part as a Mentee or Mentor. How does the programme work? The programme is provided online (via MemberWise Connect – the [...]
Daniel Bailey is the Head of Marketing, Communications and Digital Transformation at the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA). His organisation represents Electrical Contractors in the UK, employs 100 staff and his team includes 6 digital and marketing professionals. They currently have 3,000 company members. He has worked within the Membership and Association Sector for over [...]
There’s nothing like a good spring clean, and your membership data is just as in need of it. Often, data cleansing can be overlooked by teams prioritising chasing leads and handling enquiries, but done regularly and correctly it could save you time and a whole lot of hassle. It could even improve your chances [...]
We’re pleased to announce that the Pixl8 Group has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and their alignment with the network. The MemberWise Network is the UK’s largest professional network of over 7,500 senior professionals working within circa [...]
With 41% or membership organisations now having an online community (MemberWise Digital Excellency Report 2021/2022) it is increasingly important to have an online presence. Social media is a great way of increasing your online presence and engaging with existing and potential members. Keeping on top of your association’s social media can often seem like [...]
Member profiling in a modern world Attracting new members is a lot easier when you develop a strong understanding of their needs and motivators. Thankfully, members produce more data now than ever, helping organisations to better tailor their messaging and member experience according to very specific sets of needs. Using common traits characteristics and [...]
As you work on the PR strategy for your membership organisation this year, consider how the landscape is changing and how you could use new considerations to grow your membership during 2022 and beyond. PR is no longer a simple sell-in and press outreach task. In fact, for the more specialist and dynamic PR [...]
Our “Influence 100” is a list of the largest membership organisations in the UK. It’s popular with membership professionals to benchmark against other organisations and learn what works (and what doesn’t) from others. We’re now working to update the list for 2022 and we need your help please! CALL TO ACTION – if your [...]
As is true of all brands, but especially those in the membership space, personalised, data- connected experiences are about understanding your audience. This intelligence is typically gathered through Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software that records and manages interactions with members and other stakeholders. A CRM enables you to align your commercial and member strategies [...]
Does this sound familiar? After a painful, time-consuming, and expensive redesign, you finally relaunch your new membership site. After briefly patting yourself on the back, everybody moves on, and nothing much changes. A few years down the line, your website is out of date and neglected, so you start the whole process again. We [...]
For many membership bodies, the legacy systems that help run day-to-day business operations, for the most part, aren’t going anywhere. We know how frustrating it is to be constantly told how bad and unagile your system is when it feels like there’s nothing you can do about it. Despite contrary belief, it is acceptable [...]
We’re pleased to announce that Latcham has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and their alignment with the network. As an Official Partner (2022), Latcham will also provide the MemberWise Network with a range of print and fulfilment [...]
There is a powerful move for all businesses large and small, public or private to write in short, medium and long term strategies to reduce carbon emissions, and ultimately become net zero. Membership bodies are perfectly positioned to effect this change, and support their members. The reason why this is so important is that [...]
We’re pleased to announce that, for the fifth consecutive year, Cantarus has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Associations sector and their alignment with the network. As an Official Partner (2022), Cantarus will provide the MemberWise Network App on their [...]
We’re pleased to announce that RD Mobile, developer of the Eventsential event platform and Engagefully member engagement app, has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and their alignment with the network. As an Official Partner (2022), RD Mobile [...]
We’re pleased to announce that the Trillium has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and their alignment with the network. The MemberWise Network is the UK’s largest professional network of over 7,500 senior professionals working within circa 2,500 [...]
We’re pleased to announce that iMIS, an engagement management system (EMS) purpose-built for associations, has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and our alignment with the network. As an Official Partner (2022) iMIS demonstrates its commitment to [...]
Membership organisations are starting to see the real value and insight that can be gained from online communities. According to the latest Digital Excellence report from MemberWise, 41% of membership organisations now have an online community. Community launch is vital to initial and sustained engagement. While not overly time-consuming, best practices to getting this [...]
Being Santa Claus is no easy feat. Reading letters from almost every child in the world and procuring toys for all of them. Imagine that? He needs a pretty serious CRM, one that is surprisingly similar to yours… Scoring Children How would you figure out how millions of children have been naughty or nice [...]
If there’s one thing the 2021 MemberWise Digital Excellence Report proved, it’s that membership bodies have seriously accelerated their digital transformation. The report found that Association Management Systems (AMS) were the most popular tools to personalise and automate the online member experience. Despite this, many organisations have older, outdated systems that are instrumental to [...]
The global pandemic, which continues to wreak havoc, has had a dramatic impact on the way marketing is consumed, and therefore strategized. The evolution of online behaviours and how consumers interact with content has been supercharged, forcing marketers to respond quickly. With in-person events still in question, budgets up for debate and an insurmountable [...]
2021 has been one of the most successful years for MemberWise – and for more than a few reasons, but in this article we will uncover how we have been supporting you through our exclusive service, MemberWise Jobs. We surpassed 100 job posts in October – a record breaker by far and a turnaround [...]
Membership bodies and associations are likely to know the overall number of members they have and how many people engage in their activities and events. But do you truly know who your members are and how they engage across your organisation? In our experience, even the most sophisticated organisations across all sectors often struggle [...]
Membership programmes live or die by their perceived value. Recruiting new members can be very time consuming. Keeping them aware and actively engaged with your mission is essential, otherwise you risk losing their hard-won support. One of the best solutions for proving value is to build an online community. Here members can combine their [...]
There are more than 8,000 membership organisations and associations based in the United Kingdom. Even though member sizes, sectors and resources offered may differ, they all share one thing in common; the disruption caused by a cyber-attack. A new report warns hybrid workplaces are creating the “perfect storm” for cybersecurity challenges which is causing [...]
In some ways the four photos at the top to the right tell you everything you need to know about why good, authentic member photography matters, and I could just leave it at that. However, getting the right photographer and more importantly the most out of any shoot boils down to 5 golden rules. [...]
We find many of our membership clients have been comfortable operating offline databases and systems that have run smoothly for many years. However, the pandemic forced many in the membership sector to reassess how member information was stored and indeed how prospect members were targeted. Offline databases no longer had a place in a [...]
Social media networking giant Twitter have announced the impending launch of a new function ‘Twitter Communities’, and the impending feature could unlock a wealth of opportunities for the membership sector to better connect about topics and conversations online. The MemberWIse Network’s Digital Excellence 2021/22 Report* evidences an increase in adoption of online communities by [...]
At MemberWise we recognise that it is critical for membership organisations and associations to attract the right candidates for new and existing member facing roles. Membership Organisations and Associations need to: a) Ensure Job Descriptions are clear, concise and accurately communicate the requirements of the role b) Contain a person specification that will effectively [...]
Personalisation is important and we would even say vital for membership organisations - you want to show your members you know and understand them. But what level of personalisation is needed and how it gets delivered needs to be honed and tailored for each organisation. From a business perspective, personalisation refers to the means [...]
How to minimise the costs and maximise the benefits of any membership organisation Integration is broadly accepted as an organisational objective worth pursuing. Most membership sector experts believe it delivers as many benefits in operational efficiency as it does in customer service. But to truly understand the difference it can make, it’s worth digging [...]
In part 2 of our 3-part series on how to use inbound marketing to boost member acquisition, we explored the first four inbound marketing channels we recommend, with some practical examples of how you could implement them within your existing marketing strategy. If you haven’t read this article yet, take a look here. In [...]
In part one of this series on storytelling for membership organisations, we looked at the cultural history of stories and in part two we focused on the importance neuro-biology. The topic for this, the final instalment, is more practical – I want to focus on structure. This begins with the people. Every good story [...]
A recent British chamber of commerce survey revealed that just 11% of SMEs measure their carbon footprint and perhaps more significantly, cost is considered the biggest barrier with 30% claiming lack of finance is holding them back. Is that the case for membership organisations and their members? How many have started on the journey [...]
This is the second part of a tour through the power of storytelling – and how organisations can use its techniques to connect with new members. In the last instalment, we considered the prevalence of storytelling in our lives throughout history. So now let’s look at how we’re wired to communicate in stories. An [...]
In part 1 of our 3-part series on how to use inbound marketing to boost member acquisition, we explored what inbound marketing is, the benefits, and an introduction to how it can be used to drive member acquisition. If you haven’t read this article yet, take a look here. In part 2, we will [...]
Throughout human history, stories have influenced people to make big decisions – to fight, follow, explore, marry, build, worship, hunt, vote and much besides. Small wonder then that stories still hold that power to influence the decision-making brain. We tell stories in all areas of our lives and we should be telling stories in [...]
We understand member acquisition is the lifeblood of a growing membership organisation. According to the recent MemberWise Digital Excellence Report, new member acquisition is one of the highest priorities for the membership sector. This is why we recommend and implement inbound marketing services for our membership organisation clients, as we have seen first-hand how [...]
We’re pleased to announce that the NetXtra has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector. The MemberWise Network is the UK’s largest professional network for over 8,500 professionals working within 3,000 membership organisations and associations. As an Official Partner, NetXtra [...]
Membership Excellence is the Membership and Association Sector's Annual Best Practice Conference and Exhibition (7th October / London Novotel West). Our Early Bird Ticket Offer (save £55 per person) ends at 5pm on Friday (3rd September). The Membership and Association Sector has gone through what can only be described as seismic [...]
The 2021 MemberWise Digital Excellence Report provided us all with 34 pages of uninterrupted reading about all things digital in the membership sector. As always, we were treated to many facts and figures, and an inside viewpoint of how the pandemic has affected membership organisations’ attitudes towards the digital shift. What did we learn? [...]
Expectations have never been higher and customer-centricity has never been more important than today, particularly when considering the rapid advancements in technology and the throes of a global pandemic. For membership organisations, this means a constant struggle to keep up with members’ needs inside the digital space and continuously showcase the value of retaining [...]
There are more than 4 billion internet users in the world, and almost 1.9 billion websites currently in existence. Tomorrow, there will be even more. Your web presence is your showroom. It’s where your members come to get an impression of who you are and what you do, and we all know that first [...]
The events landscape for membership organisations has been evolving for a number of years. However, the circumstances of 2020 accelerated this evolution as we went from business-as-usual to anything-but. Many organisations moving forward with their plans to return to in-person events, are now also considering a “blended format” for their events. Blended events, which [...]
The MemberWise Digital Excellence Report was published in June 2021, and there was an alarming statistic which jumped out- something that could seriously be affecting membership retention and acquisition. Despite 70% of Membership Organisations agreeing there is a reliance on data to operate more effectively; only 28% of Membership Organisations agreed they have all [...]
As observers of membership trends, at Pixl8 we know digital behaviour tends to be different in the summer months as engagement can wane. This summer we expect to see even more variance with such unpredictable months ahead. Your focus is serving your members well and for this we would recommend a change in approach [...]
“There is a lot more going on than I thought, and this call has encouraged me to get more involved in the future.” A telephone call...what a novel approach in this digital age! With an increase in remote working and more online interaction, we may ask how valid or even cost effective this seemingly [...]
There aren’t many sectors that haven’t felt the icy grip of the global pandemic over the past 18 months. It’s been horrendous for many, with aviation, travel, and hospitality all hit particularly hard by the succession of lockdowns. Almost without exception, your members will be under some level of economic pressure. With profit margins [...]
The recent 2021 MemberWise Digital Excellence report has provided us with an empirical snapshot of digital activity and strategy within the membership and association sector. With more than 700 managers and directors from leading membership organisations participating in the research, it is a must-read report for all employees within our sector. At Millertech, we [...]
As lockdown easing continues, and the UK vaccine programs efficiency leads to more membership professionals returning to member-facing offices around the UK, there has never been a better time for associations to take a moment to think deliberately; strategically, and to undertake some serious self-reflection before re-engaging with teams face to face. “You never [...]
MemberWise has recently released its latest Digital Excellence report and as usual, the document provides valuable insight into our sector. It analyses the current status of digital activities in the membership and association sector, puts metrics around key areas and suggests a path of best practice for those wishing to excel. Platform versus proprietary [...]
The coronavirus pandemic gave us a sharp lesson in change dynamics, proving how inadequate deliberate, planned strategy is in the face of unpredictable circumstances. According to MemberWise’s Digital Exellence Report 2021/22, 68% of membership organisations have no digital strategy, 61% have no digital road map/plan and an astonishing 75% have no data strategy. So [...]
Many organisations have older, outdated systems that are instrumental to their day-to-day operations; we call these legacy systems. As they’re built on old technology, they can become slow, cumbersome or don’t have the agility to integrate new technologies. Having been in place for such a long time, legacy systems often become deeply ingrained into [...]
There is no denying there has been a social media surge in the past year. The recent Digital 2021 report from We Are Social and Hootsuite, shows that social media users have increased with 4.9 million new users this year, whilst the total global users are now almost 4.2 billion. You may think that [...]
Creating memorable and engaging member experiences can be incredibly challenging due to competing priorities at each stage of the journey which can be time consuming to manage. However, membership organisations have a key competitive advantage: data. Users are expecting to give over personal details as part of their contract with your organisation. So personalisation, [...]
MemberWise published its Digital Excellence (2021/22) Report last week. The report, the fourth published, provides an insight into the state of digital programmes in the membership space, and also some interesting reading for membership organisations and suppliers to the sector. While it's hot off the press, we thought we'd provide some early commentary from Silverbear's perspective. [...]
The sun is finally shining on the UK and on the membership sector. As swathes of people prepare to take some important and valuable time off during the summer months, the membership sector has an opportunity to use this period to reflect and to rebuild ahead of conference season, but to also use quieter [...]
Membership organisations constantly face the challenge of strengthening their membership numbers through effective and engaging outreach initiatives. The digital landscape has changed dramatically over the last decade, with rapid technological advancements and the rise of online platforms, which require organisations to adapt their strategies. According to MemberWise’s Digital Excellence 2019 Report, member engagement remains [...]
One thing is clear. Marketing technology today is an essential component of organisational transformation, helping marketers and their organisations attract, grow and retain audiences and customers and increase income too. For Membership Organisations it is critical. With a range of marketing channels available, from marketing membership to promoting products and services, it will become [...]
Hybrid events are quite simply a mix between traditional, in person events and digital events. Bringing the benefits of both to your calendar and maximising opportunities available and lessons learned from the rise and rise of connecting digitally. The membership sector has seen a stark and insurmountable rise in virtual events in the past [...]
UK membership organisations could generate sizeable revenues and provide a service their members value through partnerships with the hospitality industry. Hotels, when pushed, provide discounted rates for bulk buyers and pay commission to anyone that can drive accommodation sales. After more than a year of lock down it’s almost guaranteed that your members want [...]
This is the last instalment of our three-part series looking at the findings from our recent report leading through the pandemic – how membership organisations have met the challenge. For anyone who hasn’t read our previous articles, we have just released a new report with our strategic partners Rise Above, to explore how leaders [...]
The last twelve months saw many professional bodies’ attentions shift from growth to survival. With the end of the pandemic now in sight, associations should now revert to their digital transformation journeys to ensure longevity and improve their membership retention efforts. Building your digital vision Technology played a pivotal role in strengthening our resolve [...]
The Membership and Association Sector has remained resilient over the past year as our members have needed us like never before. The time is now right to evaluate your digital/membership approach by benchmarking activity and strategy with wider sector trends/norms. - Are your digital transformation plans and strategies delivering solid results? - Is your [...]
There are currently five generations in the adult population: Traditionalists (born 1927 to 1946), Baby Boomers (born 1946 to 1964), Generation X (born 1965 to 1980), Millennials (born 1981 and 1996) and Generation Z (born 1997 to 2009). That’s five generations of adults working, volunteering, becoming members of societies and organisations and starting businesses. We [...]
How do you decide what content goes into your marketing material? How do you choose what to write in your emails? What’s the inspiration for your blogs? The best membership bodies don’t just pluck words out of the air. They use personas to help them understand personalities to construct relevant content that engages with [...]
In our previous article - Leading through the pandemic – how leaders of membership organisations have met the challenge, we introduced you to our new report and the first two sections of the report. For anyone who hasn’t read this first article, we have just released a new report – Leading through the pandemic – how membership [...]
Balancing risk vs results is always a challenge but are you taking unnecessary risks when adopting new digital systems/processes? When planning a large investment for a new CRM or website, possibly one of the largest investments your organisation has made in some time, you should have some peace of mind that it’s going to [...]
The last 12 months have been a challenging time for the economy with the focus of most professional bodies needing to switch from growth to survival. But now, with the end of the pandemic hopefully in sight, our organisations have an opportunity to transform their digital services and help their members reignite their careers. [...]
Introducing MemberWise Ambassador (Governance), Simon Edwards (Director of External Engagement and Governance), The Institution of Engineering and Technology (The IET) Simon’s organisation represents nearly 160,000 members globally and employs over 600 staff. His team includes professionals working in governance, legal and compliance, policy, fundraising and volunteer support. He has worked within the Membership and [...]
This year 186 membership organisations took part in Think’s Re:member research, making it the largest deep-dive into membership organisations’ communications strategies. The scale of response meant that we could produce two Re:member reports in 2021 – covering both the professional and consumer membership sectors. Over the long Easter weekend I immersed myself in both [...]
In this pandemic year, the private and the public, the personal and the impersonal have been collided, liberated, and constrained as never before. Everything is exposed to the light. The digital world that was already surging in importance has exploded into relevance. During our work with membership organisations, we have seen the challenges and [...]
The MemberWise Digital Excellence 2019 Survey found that members’ key goal was increasing member engagement – for the third year running. However, measuring engagement remains a challenge. Thanks to technology, not only is it easy for membership bodies to connect with their members- they can also measure how connected members feel to the organisation. [...]
More and more, organisations are recognising that by placing sustainability at the heart of cost management and procurement solutions, it can improve cash-flow, increase customers, inspire employees, reduce risk and enhance reputations. Strong ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) credentials will become increasingly important. Balancing operations, innovation and membership ambitions with effective cost management, spend, [...]
We’re pleased to announce that Silverbear has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for our year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and our alignment with the network. The MemberWise Network is the UK’s largest professional network for over 8,500 professionals working within 3,000 membership organisations and [...]
We’re pleased to announce that Trillium has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and our alignment with the network. The MemberWise Network is the UK’s largest professional network for over 8,500 professionals working within 3,000 membership organisations and [...]
Digital technology continues to transform the way that membership organisations operate and deliver value to their members. It can provide new and exciting ways to access and experience services and it can save time and money through automating processes. We’ve all heard the term digital transformation before - but what does it mean in [...]
We’re pleased to announce that RD Mobile has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for our year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and our alignment with the network. The MemberWise Network is the UK’s largest professional network for over 8,500 professionals working within 3,000 membership organisations [...]
Ok, you need a CRM, excellent, but who, what, how, when? Let's go into a bit of detail on these core questions that you have probably asked yourself if you're thinking of a new CRM, or for some organisations your first CRM. It's a scary world out there, with buzz words and terminology that [...]
We’re pleased to announce that the Pixl8 Group has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector. The MemberWise Network is the UK’s largest professional network for over 8,500 professionals working within 3,000 membership organisations and associations. As an Official [...]
Between 18th January and 26th Febuary the MemberWise Network conducted a public consultation on the formalisation of membership related learning/development into a structured CPD programme for the Membership/Association Professionals The consultation communicated a clear, structured and robust approach that would enable the sector to address four key areas of learning/CPD related concern: There is [...]
We’re pleased to announce that Advanced Solutions International (ASI) has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector. The MemberWise Network is the UK’s largest professional network for over 8,500 professionals working within 3,000 membership organisations and associations. As an [...]
Join us on Tuesday mornings LIVE @ 11am for something a little bit different. The MemberWise Webcast is our popular LIVE online (and on-demand) channel that builds on the great online learning we’ve been delivering. The format is more informal than our purpose-made and general on-demand learning content (available in [...]
We’re pleased to announce that Cantarus has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for our year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector and our alignment with the network. The MemberWise Network is the UK’s largest professional network for over 8,500 professionals working within 3,000 membership organisations and [...]
We’re pleased to announce that Latcham has been recognised by the MemberWise Network for their year-round commitment to best practice sharing within the Membership and Association Sector. The MemberWise Network is the UK’s largest professional network for over 8,500 professionals working within 3,000 membership organisations and associations. As an Official Partner Latcham [...]
As an association, optimising your ecommerce experience (or starting one for that matter) can feel like a daunting, near impossible challenge. Ecommerce and the overall online experience haven’t always taken precedent over other important aspects such as maintaining revenue streams and providing free or low-cost resources to members. While you might be a little [...]
In today’s digital world, associations have acknowledged the importance of connecting with their members online. Extending your organisation’s reach online allows you to grow your audience beyond your current network. Whether it’s to cement your position as an industry leader, or to generate revenue, your website is a crucial component of your organisation’s outreach, [...]
Member retention is more than just passively keeping members on your books. It is about closing the ‘Value Gap’ by creating a value exchange with personal relevance to members and a meaningful connection. In our recent whitepaper, we uncovered that engaged members are retained for 4 years longer that non-engaged members. Your website can [...]
Over the coming weeks we will announce our new MemberWise Ambassadors who will champion their particular area of expertise. Introducing MemberWise Ambassador (Digital Transformation), Daniel Bailey (Head of Marketing and Digital Transformation), Electrical Contractors Association (ECA). Daniel’s organisation represents Electrical Contractors in the UK and employs 100 staff and his team includes 4 digital [...]
Henry Ford famously said ‘If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always got’. For some this could be seen as good, consistent even, but the sentiment behind Ford’s message is that perpetuating the same behaviour leaves little room for improvement. The value of a process is to map [...]
With the end of 2020, one lesson we all learnt was to expect the unexpected and then plan for it. The financial impact of the pandemic is being felt across the board, including the not-for-profit and charity sectors. Although there is much positivity around the vaccine and the path to the "return to normal" [...]
The associations we work with have shared their frustrations with this certain aspect of their organisation. What problems have your association faced during the pandemic? The membership bodies and associations we work with shared with us many of their problems and frustrations fighting challenges caused by Covid-19. For example, problems with social distancing, a [...]
Many are currently re-evaluating their business or organisation's offering and assessing its value to its members and subscribers in a bid to keep control and growth in a market hit by the recent pandemic. The outstanding success of subscription businesses in the UK could push some towards changing their business model to reflect this. [...]
Over the coming weeks we will announce our new MemberWise Ambassadors who will champion their particular area of expertise. Introducing MemberWise Ambassador (Leadership), Richard Lambert, CEO at the National Hair and Beauty Federation (NHBF) Richard has worked within the Membership and Association Sector for 24 years and has worked for organisations including the National [...]
In November 2020 Cloud9 Insight conducted a survey with the MemberWise Network. A total of 36 organisations participated and the results are statistically significant. Our survey of UK associations found that membership bodies have been putting their trust in technology in the wake of COVID-19. How is COVID-19 affecting membership associations? Like many [...]
Pandemic restrictions have created a world where we’re all more digitally reliant. The time is ripe for membership bodies to boost their fundraising and income generation by going online. Digital lotteries put the ‘fun’ in fundraising and provide a year-round source of unrestricted income. The challenges facing membership bodies in the world of coronavirus, [...]
In December 2020 we dedicated an entire month to the topic via our popular Membership OnTrack programme. We highlight the great on demand sessions that will help you to optimise new member acquisition activity during this challenging time. - What Do I Need to Do First to Recruit More Members? (Lecture) - Ask [...]
It is common for a great deal of attention to be given to member acquisition and retention strategies, whilst sometimes the onboarding process can be somewhat overlooked. We’ve broken onboarding down into 5 helpful connection points across the initial 6 months of membership that we think are worthy of consideration. 1. Give them a [...]
The MemberWise Network estimates there are over 800 professional bodies in the UK and they represent over 25 million professionals who range from doctors to dentists; solicitors to HR professionals; and architects to accountants. Their size and scope vary depending on scale/reach and they form a key segment of the UK/EU Membership and Association [...]
The pandemic has led all leaders to reflect, and none more so than those within the membership organisations and professional bodies sectors. The old rules and expectations for attracting, selecting and appointing new senior team members are, rightly, under challenge. Arguably, there has never been a time when attracting and securing the best talent [...]
The digital landscape has shifted massively over the past 12 months, and in ways that we hadn’t expected. The impact of Covid-19 has affected all businesses across the globe, but more importantly, customer behaviours have changed along with it. For membership organisations, it’s been a tough year. Not known for being the most agile [...]
‘People don’t buy WHAT you do, they buy WHY you do it.’ (Simon Sinek) If you’ve never come across Simon Sinek, you might want to add his book ‘Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action’ to your Amazon wishlist (treat yourself!). In it he explores how people are drawn to [...]
As you’d expect change doesn’t come easy to any organisation. If you are planning on implementing a new CRM or other digital technologies that forces you to change the way the organisation, individuals and teams operate, then expect some internal push back and barriers to emerge. Depending on the degrees of push back, who [...]
In November 2020 we dedicated an entire month to the topic via our popular Membership OnTrack programme. We highlight the great on demand sessions that will help you to enhance member value provision during this challenging time. - Where Do You Start with Member Engagement? (Lecture) - Member Journeys and Personalisation (Lecture) - [...]
This is the first ever report that builds a clear picture on the financial resilience, sustainability and emerging trends within and amongst the sector’s largest membership organisations. The Influence 100 List was launched in 2019 in celebration of the largest 100 membership organisations in the UK, which collectively represent more than 40 million individual [...]
As we approach 2021 the devastating impact of the Coronavirus pandemic continues to be felt by membership organisations around the world, and the need to look at creative and disruptive ways to generate income has become essential. Take events for example. Some organisations have firmly found their feet in the virtual event space during [...]
Trying to structure and plan any type of learning support programme can be a daunting prospect (especially if you have little experience in this area). People’s attitudes to learning have changed over the years and, even before the Covid-19 pandemic, there was a significant swing to ‘learning in the moment’, a bite-sized approach to [...]
In June MemberWise launched the first ever formalised mentoring programme for Membership and Association Professionals. The programme was delivered in response to demand and a requirement for professionals to gain access to help/support. The launch of the online programme was fast-tracked in response to the COVID-19 situation, so 6 months on [...]
Official Launch Event (2pm / Tuesday 1st December) This is the first ever report that builds a clear picture on the financial resilience, sustainability and emerging trends within and amongst the sector’s largest membership organisations. The Influence 100 List was launched in 2019 in celebration of the largest 100 membership [...]
In October 2020 we dedicated an entire month to the topic via our popular Membership OnTrack programme. We highlight the great on demand sessions that will help you to enhance member value provision during this challenging time. - Keeping Your Membership OnTrack During Challenging Times (Lecture) - Why Everyone Needs to Understand Member [...]
Your membership platform is a living, breathing ecosystem. Just like a physical store needs maintenance; so does your digital ecosystem. Except, proper maintenance of your online presence gives it the ability to add value and reach more members. We’d like to see a physical location do that! Here are the 7 key maintenance activities [...]
If you work in an advertising, marketing or design agency, creativity is part of the job. But what if you’re a membership organisation tasked with needing to ‘be creative’? The most successful creative membership marketing campaigns don’t happen overnight and marketers have different processes they follow to unleash their creative genius. So if you [...]
Nearly 60% of organisations increased their IT spending in 2020 and this move is set to continue. This kind of year on year investment is necessary to keep up to date with new and emerging technologies and achieve on-going digital transformation. Interestingly, the biggest is trend is for CRM software with global spending reaching [...]
This current period of economic uncertainty is something that we could never have predicted a year ago, with membership organisations shifting their focus to retaining their members. The severity of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to virtually all business sectors being affected in one way or another, with many organisations cutting their workforce due [...]
Are you able to monitor your membership behaviour and business performance whenever you choose or do you have to wait for someone to gather the data and compile a report for you? Business Intelligence can help you have all the answers about your membership numbers, personas and demographics, your membership engagement, your event and [...]
2020 has brought many things into sharp focus for many people. Whilst 2020 may have been the year of 20/20 hindsight, let’s focus on how 2020 can provide 20/20 vision for 2021 starting with member engagement. Being needed Many membership organisations have experienced some pretty unique phenomena in 2020 both positive and negative. To [...]
We're pleased to announce the launch of The Ultimate Guide to Retaining More Members – a practical educational guide that provides a clear, robust and structured approach to this critical task. The guide will be of interest to professionals at all levels and career stages responsible for retaining (and recruiting) members and provides practical [...]
So you’ll likely first be wondering what British Airways (BA) have in common with membership. Can there be a comparison between the two and why is it important for pay attention to the fine BA have just received? What are the commonalities between BA and Membership? Aside from the fact that all organisations need [...]
How do you ensure that your members are getting most value from their relationship with you? We explore some key areas in which you can amplify the value, engage them in gaining value and how your organisation can benefit from a mobilised membership. Amplify Communication is critical. Clearly stating your membership proposition and benefits [...]
The clash of three big players in the Content Management System (CMS) world. We pit WordPress, Umbraco and Drupal against each other in an epic battle to see who comes out on top. There are so many CMS platforms out there that it can be quite difficult to know which is the right one [...]
As a membership organisation, your members will look to you more so than ever during these challenging times. With jobs and careers being heavily effected by the pandemic, your career centre plays a pivotal role in helping members to either get their career back on track or provide valuable insight into your sector. This [...]
At the beginning of 2020, we’d never have predicted the total overhaul of working and living that the year has delivered and no sector or lifestyle has been left unturned, which is why now, more than ever, digital marketing trends and online presence have never been more important. Digital connections and virtual meetings have [...]
More than ever, membership organisations are realising the importance of having a solid online presence that drives and engages members. But with such a complex business model, and a need to deliver engaging content and experiences online, marketers, membership and IT professionals have a tough decision on their hands; choosing the right CMS [...]
Over the coming weeks we will announce our new MemberWise Ambassadors who will champion their particular area of expertise. Introducing Annette Woolman (Director of Membership, Services and Volunteering). She is the network’s new Ambassador (People and Volunteering). Annette manages a team of 9 membership/volunteer focused roles at Coeliac UK, a membership charity helping over [...]
In a world where members expect self-service, optimised online journeys, interactive and personalised experiences, it’s clear why increased member engagement and recruitment and retention are the top priorities for membership organisations*. In the current climate, it’s arguably more imperative than ever for membership organisations to overcome the technological challenges, inadequate systems integration and multiple [...]
In this blog MemberWise Recognised Supplier, Synergy, look at how the print and digital channels work in harmony to speed up the renewals process and increase member retention and engagement. They give an insight into both physical and digital renewal and welcome packs. The results The revised renewals process sped up renewals, reduced the [...]
The past six months have proved challenging for the membership sector with membership organisations seeing on average -20% to +10% changes in membership as a direct impact of the coronavirus. In direct response, our growing professional network delivered immediate help and support to thousands of membership professionals trying to make sense of the situation [...]
Chances are, you probably started off the year with a comprehensive plan to fuel growth for your association. Then COVID-19 struck and knocked all those plans out cold. As the year has gone by, we’ve all had to adapt and see what can be done now to keep things ticking over as planned. So, how [...]
The digital landscape has shifted massively over the last few years, and technical capabilities and member expectations have changed just as rapidly. For membership organisations, meeting these expectations means investing in new technologies to service members better. As many membership organisations look for ways to cut costs, generate new members and find efficiencies within [...]
Over the coming weeks we will announce our new MemberWise Ambassadors who will champion their particular area of expertise. Introducing MemberWise Ambassador (Community), Sarah Alder, Cranmore Consulting. Sarah Alder is a Network Advocate and is working with membership organisations and associations within the financial sector. She has a wealth of membership [...]
Generation Z is fast approaching a series of defining eras within their professional journey. Hot on the heels of the Millennial job market, Gen Z is now experiencing an unprecedented economic climate and uncertainty resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. According to LinkedIn “Born roughly between 1995 and 2015, Gen Z accounts for 32% of the [...]
This week we introduce MemberWise Ambassador (Member Engagement / Retention), David D’Souza, Membership Director at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). David works with a Membership Team of 100 professionals at their headquarters in Wimbledon. The organisation currently has 150,000 members and is the 47th largest membership body in the UK - [...]
Like many sectors, the world of membership organisations has adopted social media as one of their primary tools in connecting with members, partners, and anyone who may be interested in their services. However, simply implementing well thought out posting schedules is no longer enough to thrive on such competitive platforms. In order to get [...]
How many activities did your membership organisation cancel during this spring’s lockdown? How much income fell away? How much are social distancing and working at home policies impacting your organisation- and are you prepared for this to continue or worse still a return to lockdown? This virus made clear what was already apparent: from [...]
Persona: ‘the aspect of someone's character that is presented to or perceived by others’ A membership organisation is all about looking after its members, members are people and they have personalities. Members have common needs, desires and traits. Member Personas capture key characteristics/traits of members/prospective members. Although there is no such thing as ‘the [...]
We are fast approaching six months since the UK government placed the country in a lockdown to slow the spread of coronavirus. With that announcement came immediate uncertainty and detriment to UK businesses, with no sector, barring outdoor pursuits and sanitising products, untouched. The membership sector has had to evolve and rethink many aspects [...]
(An Article for MemberWise Recognised Suppliers) As a MemberWise Recognised Supplier, you will be aware of the benefits this brings to your organisation and your brand. You may also work with other commercial organisations who are not Recognised Suppliers but would appreciate details about coming on board. We want to grow our community [...]
This week we introduce our new MemberWise Ambassador (Member Value), Emma Day, Membership Director at The British Horse Society. The British Horse Society has over 112,000 members and they are supported by 145 staff with eight FTE staff working with Emma. We asked Emma about her key responsibilities and goals/challenges: “I contribute to the [...]
Over the coming weeks we will continue to announce our new MemberWise Ambassadors who will champion their particular area of expertise. This week we introduce MemberWise Ambassador (New Member Acquisition), Ian Oxley, Head of Membership Recruitment at the National Trust. Ian works with a Membership Team of around 30 professionals at their headquarters in [...]
Over the coming weeks we will announce our new MemberWise Ambassadors who will champion their particular area of expertise. Introducing MemberWise Ambassador (Member Data), Lisa Goldsmith (Head of Digital & IT, Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals). Lisa leads on Digital and IT at the Institute and works with 46 colleagues to deliver [...]
In MemberWise’s June poll on existing member retention during COVID-19, we saw how different organisations have been impacted by the pandemic. Almost most two-thirds of participants have seen some sort of impact on member retention. For 20% of participants, COVID-19 has had a positive influence on membership! However, almost half of participants at 43%, [...]
Video conferencing, messaging and workflow collaboration technology has exploded. This accelerated digital transformation of operations and communications is certainly great news for the tech companies. Zoom Communication Inc experienced a massive rise in share price and Microsoft reported that Monthly Active Users (MAUs) of its Teams product spiked by 12 million in one week in March [...]
This year 50,000 supplier searches were made on our dedicated MemberWise Recognised Supplier Directory – a resource that has been serving the Membership and Association Sector well for the past 12 years. The most popular page is CRM/AMS/Membership Database (36 solution providers feature), however a whole range of product/service providers also feature, and during [...]
While most of the member events in 2020 pivot to virtual, so are the sponsorship activations. Here are some tips to help keeping your sponsors engaged: 1. Sponsorship Branding on Registration Pages The registration page offers prime real estate for sponsorship logos, links, text or contact information. Be careful: Don't create too much friction [...]
Tens of thousands of years ago, being part of a group was a simple matter of survival: if you had the protection of a community, you would have a greater chance of standing up to predators and passing on your genes. As our society has evolved, so have many of our communities. But the [...]
Tendering for a new Customer Relationship Management (CRM) or Content Management System (CMS) doesn’t have to be a complicated or a long and drawn-out process as long as you keep some key points in mind. It’s easy to get swayed by ‘bells and whistles’ but it all comes back to a clear list of [...]
Talking to Membership Organisations about their digital landscapes, there is a common thread around content management, manual processes, duplication of efforts, spreadsheets and a good doze of copying and pasting. We call the pain-points of the organisations “as-is” state. Organisations are the go-to places for members to get resources. These can be documentation, videos, [...]
In the current climate with Covid-19 it is more important than ever to be an effective manager. There are so many aspects to being a great manager, and this blog looks at what I believe are the top 5 you need in your managers and to develop in aspiring managers. In true HR style, [...]
All of us are missing all of us. Events cancelled, restaurants and pubs closed, family members unseen for months at a time. It is hard. And when you are a membership sector professional – leading an organisation dedicated to connecting members with each other – there is a special kind of pain. Online interactive [...]
The world has changed… And I don’t think it’ll ever go back to exactly the way it was before COVID-19, with people embracing new ways of working, socialising and living. A great example for this is an event we were planning with Microsoft recently and had to cancel. Rather than just waiting for lockdown [...]
Last year’s Memberwise Digital Excellence survey reported that the retention of members was one of the three most important priorities for professional membership organisations. Today, as these organisations work through the pandemic, we believe that member retention is now firmly in the number one spot. It’s crucial to maintaining revenue and will be a [...]
Businesses across the United Kingdom will be looking for ways to enhance and maximise their marketing spend in exchange for better reach, engagement and coverage, with the membership sector as no exception. This means taking time to investigate contra deal opportunities within your sector that will both save resources from your marketing budget, but [...]
We are pleased to announce the launch of our first virtual Summer School: a series of online tutorials that will culminate in the publication of our latest, co-curated, best practice resource, The Ultimate Guide to Retaining More Members, plus other supporting content and activities. What’s in it for you? Participants will get to unpack [...]
The months of uncertainty surrounding when the economy might ramp up have undoubtedly been difficult. We have all been waiting for all shops, schools, zoos, gardens and properties to re-open. We are delighted that some membership organisations and charities have continued to use direct mail to connect with their members and supporters. Like many [...]
Research into member needs during the health crisis doesn’t need to stop – in fact we may need it now more than ever While Covid-19 has undoubtedly impacted on conducting qualitative market research across the UK and globally, it’s encouraged member organisations to explore different ways of carrying out research like never before. Instead [...]
What is Mentoring? Mentoring describes a relationship between two people that develops as a way of providing support in a work-related context. A mentor could work for the same organisation as their mentee but not always; the key aspect of the relationship is experience. The mentor usually has a level [...]
The MemberWise Network is the leading free best practice network for membership and association professionals in the UK/EU. This year we embark on an ambitious programme to tool up the sector in response to the current challenging climate. Here is where we start. We wholeheartedly believe that common roles within Membership Organisations and Associations [...]
In case you haven’t noticed, the world’s turned upside down. Across the membership sector, the ‘new normal’ is forcing many organisations to face up to a precarious new reality – and arts and heritage organisations have been among the hardest hit. A few weeks ago, National Trust for Scotland announced that hundreds of jobs [...]
In Part 1, we talked about the need for membership organisations to work harder and faster to demonstrate their relevance and value, to retain members and entice back those who have left, in order to safeguard revenues and drive business growth. Now we will continue to explore the different avenues available to membership organisations to [...]
Learning your way into a new future: A guide on why and how to create a digital learning platform that increases member value. Covid 19 has triggered a wave of fast and significant change in all aspects of our lives. It has also created a search for new knowledge as we learn new ways [...]
The Royal Mail Covid-19 Open for Business Incentive is designed to help businesses and charities impacted by COVID-19 social movement restrictions by boosting their trading and marketing activities. The mailing incentive was initially aimed at charities who have had to cancel all their summer 2020 fundraising events such as the London Marathon. They will [...]
Facebook has announced a new update and is starting to roll out features to help users and businesses better connect with their followers. Here's why it's great for the membership sector. For many membership organisations and their members, these updates unlock new avenues of connecting and sharing information with people who use Facebook more [...]
For membership organisations, the COVID-19 pandemic has placed member retention under the spotlight more than ever. Membership organisations need to work harder and faster to demonstrate their relevance and value, to retain members and entice back those who have left, in order to safeguard revenues and drive business growth. Membership organisations have an opportunity [...]
In Part 1 we discussed the importance of making sure your members can get to the information they need quickly. In this article, we will discuss some of the, maybe less obvious things to take into consideration when improving the online experience for your users. By using tools that give you insight into how [...]
With the latest lockdown measures due to Covid-19, you may have seen an increase in visits to your website? At times like this, it’s even more vital that your members can find the information they need. Emotions could be fragile and you don’t want to add to their anxiety. Many organisations have set up [...]
Following last night’s Government announcement of the new five-level COVID Alert System, and varying approaches in the devolved nations, we continue to provide you with free practical help and support as the lockdown restrictions start to ease. We certainly have a long way to go before things return to any form of “normal” and [...]
Until the end of February ,Member Engagement was the Membership and Association Sector’s key goal for 2020 (and had been so since 2016). In less than a month that shifted to Member Value*. Our work environment has changed beyond all recognition. Many staff have been furloughed and things are very uncertain; but the show [...]
We here at membershipbespoke are beginning to notice some encouraging green shoots of recovery in recruitment for membership organisations. The signs are that there will be a great deal of activity in this area after restrictions are lifted. Here are some top tips for clients and candidates to help you get ahead of the [...]
I have identified a worrying trend that is developing within organisations that have decided to furlough staff via the Government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. This sadly includes a number of well-known UK membership organisations and associations. I am ‘calling this out’ as I don’t think what is happening is right. A small but growing [...]
Organisations often slip up as they become reactive, rather than proactive and make it up as they go along. Change can happen due to an emergency or a crisis in business but is normally generated by process improvements/alterations or due to new regulations. Even a planned programme of change such as the changes associated [...]
In response to rapidly changing teaching, learning and assessment needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, membership organisations, awarding bodies, educational publishers, etc. are working to design, develop and deliver services for members self-studying for qualifications at home. As a result, organisations can promote an enhanced professional development offer, to boost their membership benefits, revenues and [...]
The Membership and Association sector is currently seeing a large number of professionals furloughed, particularly those conducting administrative and event focused roles. Some sectors (particularly those enabling digital transformation) that many of you represent/support are seeing a boom period, whilst other sectors are being highly impacted e.g. the aviation and hospitality industries. The [...]
Retention is consistently rated as a top 3 goal for most Member Organisations* but is under pressure in these unprecedented times. Member anxiety, remote working, furlough and financial concerns have led to an increase in member cancellations. The threat to revenue is clear – but what can be done? Ride the Wave Although many [...]
Problems, we’ve all got them; some we work around, some we ignore and hope will go away and some we rise to the challenge, get our heads down and overcome. In this season of extreme challenge, where it seems that the majority of problems are coronavirus related, we take a brief look at overcoming [...]
For all of us, life as we know it has changed beyond all recognition in a matter of days and weeks. Coronavirus has changed daily life for everyone in the UK. We have all been making adjustments to our professional and personal lives. Changes that, for many of us, would have been unthinkable just [...]
Last year the NAS (National Association of Shopfitters and Interior Contractors) celebrated its centenary, with a fantastic year full of celebration and reflection. However, our priority now is focusing on the future, ensuring the association is as relevant as possible to those working in the shopfitting, fit out and interior contracting industry today. We [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital As social distancing and working from home extends, digital interaction becomes more and more important. Now that we have a few weeks of working from home and there are a vast amount of out there and great tools to help us, we need to make sure [...]
Due to the current Coronavirus situation we have compiled a comprehensive programme of help and support to optimise your membership focused activity. It is our firm belief that your members will judge your current actions after this current crisis is over, so we recommend providing related/immediate help and support (in order to avoid [...]
By Guest Blogger: Emma Burley, Marketing Director CJ Association Management For the first time since 2016, member value has outranked member engagement as the sector’s main goal/challenge (prior to 2016 it was new member acquisition). It has taken a global pandemic for this shift to occur. Now is the time to go the extra [...]
By Guest Blogger: Kim Smith, Marketing Executive Protech The COVID-19 pandemic is very likely to be having an impact on most, if not all business operability. In these uncertain times, a vital consideration for professional membership and awarding organisations is how can they continue to operate when often the main source of revenue is obtained [...]
By Guest Blogger: Tabby Duff, Digital Marketing Executive Cantarus With the latest government information surrounding COVID-19, more and more organisations are implementing work from home policies, including Cantarus. The good news is that although we are currently in unchartered waters, it also presents membership organisations and associations with opportunity – when things eventually go back to [...]
During the current challenging period it is important for us to deliver effective governance. An important topic is the delivery of Annual General Meetings (AGMs) over the coming weeks/months. Many membership bodies and associations will have their Annual General Meeting scheduled for the coming weeks. Normally, liabilities would arise in cancelling or postponing [...]
By Guest Blogger: Matt Craven, Managing Director The CV & Interview Advisors I recently wrote an article on What career development resources look like in the 21st century and I thought I would follow up with a piece that homes in on some of the career programmes that membership organisations are currently running. As I [...]
The current Coronavirus situation is causing worldwide disruption which has put normality on hold. Many professional bodies, particularly those which hold a Royal Charter, require particular grades of members to undertake Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to maintain their level of membership. In some instances, it may be needed for the right to practice. It may [...]
By Guest Blogger: Emma Burley, Marketing Director CJ Association Management It's no secret we're in the midst of tough times. Businesses across the globe will be feeling the financial implications of Covid-19 for the forseeable future, and as such, it has never been more important to connect with your members about support available during [...]
With less than two months to go until MEMX2020, and the escalating situation with the coronavirus, we will not be able to hold the conference in May. To avoid as much uncertainty as possible, and in the interests of everyone's well-being, we are therefore moving MEMX2020 to October 8th. Everything will be the [...]
By Guest Blogger: Emma Nicolson, Director Mulberry Advertising The results from last month’s MemberWise quick poll showed that almost a quarter of organisations keep member retention and recruitment functions separate. Doing this helps to focus our efforts, however a more nuanced approach can be very beneficial. In all our years working with membership organisations [...]
In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) we have created the following suggested steps that you and your membership body may wish to take. Information updated: 5th April 2020 (10:00am) What is it? It is caused by a member of the coronavirus family that has never been encountered before. Like other coronaviruses, it has come from [...]
By Guest Blogger: Jonathan McLellan, Digital Consultant Pixl8 Conversion Rate Optimisation, or CRO, is the acronym on everyone’s lips right now. As a membership marketer, you need to find the value in it or risk it being deemed just another fad. CRO can seem complicated, so we’ve broken down the basics into 5 steps. Want [...]
By Guest Blogger: Phillip Law, Head of Insights Your Favourite Story The top 100 Membership organisations (by total membership numbers) websites were audited for technologies related to Analytics, Tagging, Optimisation, and Personalisation activities. This report identifies and benchmarks common technologies. The rationale Some of the organisations we work with key strategy for increasing total membership [...]
By Guest Blogger: Max du Bois, Executive Director Spencer du Bois Have Membership organisations and their brands lost sight of their purpose? This is a query continually raised by clients, as well as something we hear anecdotally, as transactional branding has become more and more prevalent across the sector. - Professional bodies messages focus on [...]
By Guest Blogger: David Lewington, Managing Director Afflinity Hire In Your board has set you the task of growing the membership numbers by 5% this year with no direction or idea of how this will be achieved and no real idea of how the membership management side of the business works. Sound familiar? Many organisations [...]
By Guest Blogger: Andrew Vance, Commercial Director Wattle Undergoing digital transformation is a huge undertaking for any membership organisation. Adaptations are required at every level to truly realise the benefit of consolidated systems. However, with a documented average ROI of 17% according to a recent Avanade report, digitalisation is an investment that can truly reap [...]
Our popular annual membership focused conference will take place on 8th October 2020 at the Novotel London West hotel and this year we will welcome circa 800 delegates/stakeholders. Our Early Bird Offer (save 20%) ends at 5pm on Tuesday 30th June The Membership Excellence 2020 Official Theme this year will be: [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital Having a robust CRM system is key when looking at continued organisational growth, today data-based decisions are not only possible but key to the success and continued growth of an organisation. Many organisations are at odds with their current systems, perhaps it’s due to age, they’re [...]
By Guest Blogger: Dave Gilmore Head of Communications, NAHT Membership organisations are complex, and one of the most challenging aspects of their complexity is effectively communicating their message to multiple audiences. More often than not, these types of organisation will comprise people with different categories of membership, and, more often than not, these people will [...]
Written by: Richard Gott, MemberWise Network Chair The MemberWise Recognised Supplier programme has been helping leading membership bodies meet great sector suppliers since 2008. In response to demand we relaunch this great service with some exciting new changes/developments. We list 3 key changes below. 1) A new MemberWise Recognised Supplier Badge – The MemberWise [...]
Members of the MemberWise Network automatically receive our popular monthly newsletter direct. Join Free Today! This month: - Key Message: End of Early Bird Offer / MEMX 2020 - 28th February (save 20%) - FREE SEMINARS - (10th & 17th March / London) Mobile App / Online Community Focus - MEMX 2020 [...]
By Kerrie Fuller Associate Director of Engagement MemberWise Network There is a concern that membership is a dying concept in the 21st century. The younger generation are proving a stubborn audience to engage and we are all becoming ‘on demand’ consumers; able to purchase products and services that meet our needs as and when we [...]
Members of the MemberWise Network automatically receive our popular monthly newsletter direct. Join Free Today! In this issue: - NEXT FREE SEMINAR -(26th Feb / London) Digital Transformation in the Roaring 20's! - MEMX 2020 Seminar Stream Preview - VIDEO - How to make your members roar! (by The National Trust) - BLOG [...]
There is a theory that membership as a concept is dying out, to be replaced with purchasing on demand. That the younger generation do not see the value in 'joining' an organisation. So how can membership as a sector survive these challenges? By evolving into a more innovative and enthused force for good. In fact, [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital Increasing member engagement and challenges with CRM systems have been stated amongst the top challenges for the last three years for membership organisations (stated in the Memberwise digital excellence survey 2019). >40% think they have inadequate integration between web and CRM, that’s 4% higher than last year [...]
By Guest Blogger: Alan Hiddleston - Manager, Corporate Sales EMEA D2L Not so long ago, membership organisations offering training would have arranged face-to-face events. This guaranteed member engagement – once on-site, learners would commit to the session – but availability and cost was always a challenge and training reach could be limited by geography. [...]
Members of the MemberWise Network automatically receive our popular monthly newsletter direct. Join Free Today! In this issue: - We announce our next free best practice seminar (with Trillium) on 30th January (London) - Review network growth and development in 2019 - New VIDEO - Delivering on 21st Century Member Expectations (by MemberWise) [...]
By Guest Blogger: Carsten Pleiser, Business Development UK Blue Sky eLearn Events can be delivered in a zillion different ways - in-person, hybrid or virtual. For membership organisations, in-person conferences have always played an important role in bringing members together, enabling networking, adding value & offering learning opportunities. But as events & learning teams are [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital Becoming more digitally focused as your members’ demands evolve can be fairly straight forward, as long as you keep a few key things in mind. Asking the right questions within your organisation and not being blinded with the latest technology can ensure that you constantly move [...]
By Guest Blogger: Tabby Duff, Digital Marketing Executive Cantarus Digital Transformation is Nonsense and Your Members Don’t Care Last week myself, Tom, Mark, and Mike joined Rich Gott, Founder & Chair of MemberWise to deliver a seminar titled, ‘Digital Transformation is Nonsense and Your Members Don’t Care.’ Each year we deliver two seminars with [...]
By Guest Blogger: Rachel Mitchell, Director Your Favourite Story Have you been tasked with your organisation's Diversity and Inclusion initiative? Is it well underway, or are you just starting out? Either way, data will be key to planning and success. First things first: what does your current membership look like? Do you know where it’s [...]
By Guest Blogger: Russ Magnuson RD Mobile Having worked in technology for over 35 years (and online for 25 years), I’ve come to appreciate the pace of change and how quickly technology strategy needs to be revisited. When the Web emerged as a content delivery platform in the mid-90s, I thought it provided the [...]
The MemberWise Network is pleased to launch the Influence 100 List (Largest UK Membership Bodies) fourth quarter update (2019). In celebration we presented 20 membership bodies with Official Recognition Plaques at Digital Excellence 2019. Congratulations to the following membership bodies that have risen up the rankings via exceptional new member acquisition work over the past [...]
By Kerrie Fuller Associate Director of Engagement MemberWise Network As part of our series of articles on key segments of the Membership Sector, in this article we focus on Students’ Unions (SU). There are over 600 students’ unions in the UK, the first being created in 1884 at Edinburgh University. Their role is to lobby, [...]
By Guest Blogger: Jo Lucas, Business Development Director Advanced Direct Mail Sustainable Mailings Can Still Be Cost-Effective It is increasingly vital for membership organisations to stand out to attract, engage and retain loyal members. Whilst digital marketing campaigns are undoubtably becoming more popular, there is still an important role for direct mail, whether it’s a [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital Increasing member engagement remains the top goal for the third year running stated in the 2019 Digital Excellence report by Memberwise, as budgets get tighter and we are all trying to do more with less there are a few areas that we can take a step [...]
By Guest Blogger: Steve Shiels, Head of Sales and Marketing Protech Who are Generation Z? People born between 1995-2015 are known as Generation Z. They are the first generation who have only known an online world, and their outlook is very different to those that came before them. It means that the value they perceive [...]
By Guest Blogger: Emma Nicolson, Director Mulberry Advertising Recently we’ve seen a trend within membership organisations, not simply to increase the membership base but to cultivate members that are highly engaged with the aims and ethos of the organisation. There are many good reasons to do this: to increase the number of volunteers, encourage the [...]
By Guest Blogger: Melissa Wiggins, Head of Client Strategy NetXtra With increasing member engagement still being one of the top three challenges faced by the sector, those working in corporate membership have further obstacles to overcome in connecting with their audience. Organisations providing corporate memberships are commonly faced with more complex communication challenges, which [...]
- By Richard Gott - Membership Sector Influencer & Thought Leader Since Royal Charters were first granted in 1231 over 1,000 have been granted, which include professional bodies, universities, schools, charities and theatres. There are approximately 400 active Chartered bodies and this year The Worshipful Company of Chartered Architects and the Academy of Medical [...]
Members of the MemberWise Network automatically receive our popular monthly newsletter direct. Join Free Today! This month our newsletter takes a technology focused theme ahead of our popular annual membership focused digital transformation conference - Digital Excellence 2019 Over 300 Membership [...]
By Guest Blogger: Katie Atkinson, President Results Direct & RD Mobile Mobile apps are a game-changer for member associations and charities looking to better engage members and supporters, nurture relationships, increase donations, and manage events and volunteers. What considerations are most important as you look to implement an app? Here are RD Mobile’s top [...]
In the lead up to this year’s national membership focused digital conference, Digital Excellence 2019, we interview a selection of Digital Leaders who have achieved ground breaking online member focused results and will share their inspirational online success stories. Digital Leaders represent leading membership bodies including The National Trust, NAHT, RIBA, Royal Pharmaceutical Society, [...]
By Guest Blogger: Luke Holderness, Creative Director Pixl8 Writers provide copy, designers ‘style it up’. Why not mix up these roles? Because the flexibility of digital breaks up barriers that many organisations still see as a given. To make the best of your marketing channels, it helps if every member of your production team is [...]
Members of the MemberWise Network automatically receive our popular monthly newsletter direct. In this month's Issue: – End of Early Bird Offer (Digital Excellence 2019) – 14 Guest Blog Articles – 4 Digital Thought Leadership Videos (Culture / Personalisation / Mobile / Integration – Member Value Focused Insight Presentation Video – Free AI & Digital [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital The world has changed so rapidly, member’s digital expectations are growing fast, the need to deliver targeted and valuable information is critical for attracting new members, increasing member retention and therefore potential future revenue. Do you have an end-to-end view on your members and understand their [...]
By Guest Blogger: Vicky Garratt, Marketing and Communications Manager Your Favourite Story Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) has been a hot business topic over the past few years. Many organisations claim to be D&I-driven or say that they want to become more D&I-driven. But how does one put this nice idea into practice? Besides, what even [...]
By Guest Blogger: Tom Walters, Principal Consultant Cantarus According to the 2019 Digital Excellence survey summary report, and a panel discussion at at the most recent Digital Excellence conference, member engagement is the number one goal for membership organisations. Why should you be considering an app for your membership organisation? A whopping third of UK [...]
By Guest Blogger: Emma Nicolson, Director Mulberry Advertising We are told time and again that content is king in all areas of membership marketing. The trouble is we often get bogged down in re-phrasing what we’ve said again and again, without really looking at how to keep things as short, sweet and direct as possible. [...]
By Guest Blogger: Rachel Mitchell, Director Your Favourite Story “So, how’s the new website doing? Can I get the latest report?” It’s a reasonable question to ask a Marketing Analytics team, right? So why has it given me a sinking feeling over the years? Well, that feeling means I’ve failed. Oh, I can update the [...]
Members of the MemberWise Network automatically receive our popular monthly newsletter direct. It contains: – The latest network activity – Information about our conferences and events – The latest discussion items on MemberWise Connect – Registration information for our free monthly seminars – Latest Guest Blog Articles – New & Renewing Recognised Supplier Information – [...]
By Kerrie Fuller Associate Director of Engagement MemberWise Network As part of our series of articles on key segments of the Membership Sector, in this article we focus on Private Members' Clubs. Private Members’ Clubs are unique in that the concept of a ‘private club’ is an old one (the oldest dates from 1693) and [...]
The summer months have traditionally provided membership bodies with ‘time out’ to plan/prepare for member focused activity taking place in September and November. A lot of new staff recruitment related activity tends to grind to a halt and we think this is a MASSIVE opportunity missed particularly if you are looking for a ‘Super Hero’. [...]
By Guest Blogger: Carsten Pleiser, Business Development UK Blue Sky eLearn According to Memberwise Research, increasing non-subscription revenues is the seventh most crucial goal for UK associations & membership bodies. Non-subscription revenues have the potential to de-risk subscription revenues, which many membership bodies heavily rely upon, according to Memberwise. Speaking about different revenue channels, it [...]
By Guest Blogger: Luke Todd, Partnership Manager Bottomline It’s late into the evening, and your phone has sounded a notification to say you’ve got a new email. You look to answer one or two and before you know it, it’s past midnight. Sound familiar? A membership manager typically wears many hats during the day (and [...]
We're now midway through the year and it feels right to revisit the Membership & Association Sector's 7 Key Priorities identified at the start of the year. These key priories were established via the statistically significant findings contained in the Digital Excellence 2019 Survey Summary Report (free to download via our online professional community, MemberWise [...]
By Guest Blogger: Julie Ray, Client Services Director Advanced Direct Mail Postage is one of the single biggest costs for any membership mailing. There are a staggering 146 different ways you can post a letter and so understanding the various options takes a lot of time and patience. We’ve compiled a list of 4 [...]
By Guest Blogger: Melissa Wiggins, Head of Client Strategy NetXtra The phrase ‘digital transformation’ can mean different things to different organisations, and it can encompass a whole host of projects with digital considerations. Our perspective is that ‘Digital Transformation’ is the process through which organisations analyse, decide, plan and deliver change using supporting technology. [...]
We asked Graham Prichard to give us some insight into why the National Trust required a greener approach and how Advanced Direct Mail had been instrumental in making the changes from traditional poly wrapping on their mailings to a 100% compostable magazine wrapper… ADM has helped the National Trust for over 9 years now. Working [...]
By Guest Blogger: Alex Price, Founder & MD 93digital Your marketing team stands before a large and imposing reinforced gate, with a 20 foot high wall on either side. Behind the silo of the gate and wall in front of you are the other departments in your organisation. Your Head of Content uses all the [...]
By Kerrie Fuller Associate Director of Engagement MemberWise Network Sport England recognise 155 National Sports Bodies in the UK – set up to be the governing body for every sport that you can think of, however small. Sport England is the public body that invests funding into these sports bodies and works with them to [...]
Members of the MemberWise Network automatically receive our popular monthly newsletter direct. It contains: - The latest network activity - Information about our conferences and events - The latest discussion items on MemberWise Connect - Registration information for our free monthly seminars - Latest Guest Blog Articles - New & Renewing Recognised Supplier Information - [...]
By Kerrie Fuller Associate Director of Engagement MemberWise Network A delegation from the New South Wales Business Chamber were over in the UK collecting best practice from the membership sector and in return, gave us an insight into their membership strategy. In this article we share the top 5 lessons we can learn from this [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital Increasing your revenue and attracting new members is top priority but are you ready for the latest generation as they hit the job market, it is estimated that they will make up 20% of the US work force by next year* The millennial generation has been [...]
Author: Jon Smith, Head of Digital, YHA (England and Wales) About 18 months ago, I gave a talk at the annual MemberWise Digital Excellence conference in London. I spoke about plans for YHA England & Wales to simplify its old, outdated and complex membership scheme in a bid to remain relevant to today’s customers, guests [...]
In this article we provide a guidance not on how professional membership bodies can enable members to gain up to 40% off their annual membership subscription fee via tax relief approval (via inclusion on the HMRC List 3). In real terms you could provide your members with this discount (indirectly via inclusion), however continue [...]
Members of the MemberWise Network automatically receive our popular monthly newsletter direct. It contains: - The latest network activity - Information about our conferences and events - The latest discussion items on MemberWise Connect - Registration information for our free monthly seminars - Latest Guest Blog Articles - New & Renewing Recognised Supplier Information - [...]
The MemberWise Network has published a comprehensive suite of job description templates to help membership organisations and associations better communicate senior stakeholder roles/responsibilities. Below we provide you with clear job/role description templates that your organisation can personalise in order to ensure responsibilities are clearly communicated ‘from the get go’. We have created helpful templates [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital Your objectives are to grow the organisation’s revenue, diversify from existing revenue streams and increase the engagement from your members, while acquiring new ones. Member requirements are changing so fast, servicing existing members and not leaving them behind while evolving and expanding can feel like an [...]
Richard Gott Membership Sector Influencer & Thought Leader Following the UK General Election being announced on Wednesday 22nd May 2024 professional bodies and trade associations across the country should now publish their respective manifestos and priorities to ensure they align or call-out key issue/omissions of those published by the next UK government. Not [...]
Members of the MemberWise Network automatically receive our popular monthly newsletter direct. It contains: - The latest network activity - Information about our conferences and events - The latest discussion items on MemberWise Connect - Registration information for our free monthly seminars - Latest Guest Blog Articles - New & Renewing Recognised Supplier Information - [...]
By Guest Blogger: Amanda Gilmer, Managing Director Chord UK Sending email is quick, cheap and easy. But communicating using just one channel doesn't work. Membership and association teams need to add value to the member journey across multiple channels. This can only be achieved by having meaningful conversations that build trust. So when is [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital CRM discussions have always led the way in conversations related to improving member engagement, but are we forgetting about the importance of your website? Digital savvy members are demanding more and more, they want to feel individual, they are more time poor and expect you to [...]
By Guest Blogger: Graham Duffill, CEO Page Lizard So, your membership organisation needs an app. What are the options available? Build it in-house Outsource the build Out-of-the box platform app Customised modular app 1. Building an app yourself If the app is central to your business success it makes sense to build it in-house. It [...]
By Guest Blogger: Russ Magnuson RDMobile This is Part 3 in a series of articles about ensuring success with a mobile event app for your organisation’s annual conference or meeting. Part 1 covered “Selecting Your Event App.” Part 2 took a deeper look at pre-event activities with “Preparing and Planning (Before Your Event).” On-Site [...]
By Guest Blogger: Russell Ward Co-Founder of Meta Capability This article is a continuation from Part 1 published on the Memberwise blog on the 28th February 2019. The illustrated system was created for and with the RIBA. Getting recognition for completing CPD Everyone likes to be recognised for their achievements, especially if they have spent [...]
We’re pleased to announce the launch of an exciting new (pilot) online community for CPD/learning professionals working within membership organisations and associations. Introducing the CPD Intelligence Community... A free online professional community exclusively for professionals (at all career levels/stages) who are responsible for planning, delivering, reviewing and/or measuring continuing professional development (including learning/eLearning, qualifications and [...]
By Guest Blogger: Sarah Corney, Head of Customer Experience Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development ‘We’re members, not customers!’ I remember being slightly taken aback by this objection from the CIPD’s Council* as I talked them through our early plans for customer experience (CX) at the Institute. Why had I seemingly caused offence by using [...]
By Guest Blogger: Matt Craven, Managing Director The CV & Interview Advisors Members of professional bodies are almost always ‘career-minded’ people who are focused on career advancement. It’s often the single reason they joined a professional body in the first place. So why are career development resources a bit of an after-thought across the membership [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital As we know increasing member engagement and potential revenue is what we all strive for …..what if I said it is within your grasp? We have been discussing new CRM/CMS systems and the pitfalls to watch out for during our last few blogs. Therefore, we felt [...]
By Guest Blogger: Sarah Corney, Head of Customer Experience Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development ‘We’re members, not customers!’ I remember being slightly taken aback by this objection from the CIPD’s Council* as I talked them through our early plans for customer experience (CX) at the Institute. Why had I seemingly caused offence by using [...]
By Guest Blogger: Peter Fowler, Managing Director, UK Lumi The annual meeting is a crucial part of any organisation’s interactions with its members, giving them an opportunity to hear how the organisation is doing and discuss its future plans and prospects. Yet there is a feeling that for many associations, the annual meeting is [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ross Poulton, CRM Consultant Upbeat by Professional Advantage Subscription payments are the lifeblood of any membership organisation. Do you have a streamlined end-of-year renewal process? Read on for our top 10 tips for a smooth renewal cycle. 1. What value are you providing, and how much are your members paying? It might [...]
By Guest Blogger: Russell Ward Co-Founder of Meta Capability Part 1 of 2 articles. According to MemberWise’s estimations (and they should know as they are at the heart of the membership world) there are over 8,000 membership organisations (MOs) and associations based in the United Kingdom (with memberships of over 1,000 individuals/organisations), and 14 million [...]
Written by: Richard Gott, MemberWise Network Chair It’s very easy for me to say to you: ‘come to our next conference, MEMX 2019, it’s going to be the biggest and best ever’! If you haven’t been to a MemberWise Conference you will probably think: ‘well he would say that wouldn’t he - as the [...]
By Kerrie Fuller Associate Director of Engagement MemberWise Network Membership of political parties has been in steady decline since its peak in the early 1950s. As a (overdue) response to this, in 2018, three academics were funded to research key trends and issues with political party membership. Here are the top 5 lessons we can [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital During the last few articles we have covered the importance of the initial planning phase, followed by our thoughts on structuring the tender process, and in the most recent article we have discussed of supplier. The last mile is ensuring project rolls out efficiently and effectively, [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital In the last two blogs we have discussed the importance of the initial planning phase, followed by a structured tender process – this will all come together to ensure that you make the right decision for your organisation and don’t look back with regret. As mentioned, [...]
By Guest Blogger: Julia Nielsen, Account Manager Guild Having immersed myself in the environment, culture, and understanding of professional membership organisations this year, no word has been used more than 'engagement'. But how are we defining and tracking it, and more importantly, how should we be? I decided to find out. It is a top [...]
By Kerrie Fuller Associate Director of Engagement MemberWise Network January is a great time to create your goals for the year when it comes to your work and career. Here are the top ten ideas on how to manage your membership career effectively this year: 1) Look for opportunities in your current role Think about [...]
- By Richard Gott / MemberWise Network Founder & Chair- Membership Sector Influencer & Thought LeaderThe MemberWise Network represents over 8,000 professionals employed by 2,500 leading membership organisations and associations in the UK, European Union (EU) and beyond. We proudly host the official list of the largest and most influential membership organisations in the UK.The [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital Leading on from our last article, Replacing your CRM/CMS – steps for success, the next step is to run an impartial and focused tender process. Below you will find our thoughts and ideas on how to make this a success. As we mentioned previously the Discovery [...]
By Guest Blogger: Julie Ray, Client Services Director Advanced Direct Mail Royal Mail prices increases come into effect on 2nd January 2019 but it’s not all bad news. Royal Mail offer a range of discounts and incentives and by understanding and applying these discounts and incentives, the 2019 increases can be substantially reduced. Postage [...]
By Guest Blogger: Sarah Corney, Head of Customer Experience Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development Back in October I was invited to speak at the #CXDay in Birmingham on a panel of industry experts and CX-er’s ‘at the coal face’ (so to speak). (I was definitely in the ‘coal face’ camp!) I was talking about [...]
By Guest Blogger: Tracy Capaldi-Drewett, Group Commercial Director MicroLearn The business ecosystem is more volatile than ever with increased competition, the drive for digital transformation and an uncertain political environment. It becomes even more vital that membership organisations embrace the need for rapid change both in terms of attracting, retaining and bringing value to its [...]
By Guest Blogger: Ben Sturt, Managing Director Chrysalis Digital You know you need to modernise your CRM system and your website needs to be refreshed, aligned and integrated but where do you start? As you embark on this journey, you are not alone. Many organisations within this sector and outside are on this path – [...]
It is critical for membership organisations and associations to attract the right candidates for new and existing member facing roles. It is important we: a) Ensure Job Descriptions are clear, concise and accurately communicate the requirements of the role b) Contain a person specification that will effectively communicate the knowledge, experience and capabilities required c) [...]
By Guest Blogger: Adam Legge, Director of Development Silverbear Imagine if you could predict when – and why – your membership was about to decline. Suppose you could gain insight that enabled you to know who, by age, gender or even by name, was about to ‘drop off’ and be able to do something to stop [...]
By Guest Blogger: Steve Pearce, Director Rubicon Marketing I want to look at the value of the medium of print. Like many people I’m sensory-seeking. Whether it’s a smell, a specific sound, or the physical feel of an item in my hand with my senses engaged I focus more on what I’m doing and have [...]
By Guest Blogger: Russ Magnuson Results Direct Mobile This is Part 2 in a series of articles about ensuring success with a mobile event app for your organisation’s annual conference or meeting. Part 1 covered “Selecting Your Event App.” Preparing and Planning (Before Your Event) Now that you’ve selected your event app, getting your [...]
By Guest Blogger: Garry Ford, Account Director Latcham Direct Over the past two years, we have seen a shift from membership professionals who now want to embrace sustainability by utilising new techniques and products to produce ‘green’ membership cards and packs. Most members associate very strongly with membership brands and having a membership card is [...]
By Guest Blogger: Naresh Raj, Client Development Manager Smartimpact With Digital Excellence 2018 just around the corner, we thought it would make sense to align this MemberWise blog post with our very own Ahmed Eltohamy’s session ‘How AI will get you much closer to your members’, which he’ll be delivering to delegates at the event [...]
By Guest Blogger: Carsten Pleiser, Business Development UK Blue Sky eLearn For the majority associations, learning programs contribute to nearly 25% of average non-dues revenue generation. The crunch question? How can your associations provide more value & more education to more people while expanding and charging more for it? The ability of your leadership team [...]
By Guest Blogger: Matilda Strachan, Account Manager Guild Guild recently conducted research with 33 professional membership organisations in an attempt to further understand their current challenges, specifically in the context of communication with and amongst their members. The issue of modernisation was a recurring theme, establishing three main areas that any membership body should [...]
By Guest Blogger: Russ Magnuson Results Direct Mobile In this series of articles, I’ll explore all aspects of ensuring success with a mobile app for your organisation’s annual conference or meeting. While I’ll generally focus on organisations that are searching for their first event app, there will be plenty of useful tips for those [...]
Each year as part of the Influence 100 List of the largest and most influential membership bodies in the UK we publish a list of the 10 largest and most influential professional bodies in the UK. The list can be found below with comparative figures from the previous year. Notable changes: The Chartered Insurance [...]
By Guest Blogger: Tom Walters, Consultant Cantarus Key Definitions from the Member Value 2025 Project Handbook Perceived Member Value: The value existing members feel they receive from access to benefits and services of membership and/or being able to participate. Actual Member Value: The value an existing member actually receives from membership. We hope you enjoyed [...]
By Guest Blogger: Carl Grieves, Managing Director Silverbear As someone who is responsible for managing and growing a business built on developing and providing Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software to membership organisations, I’m able to spot trends, patterns and potential issues impacting on this sector as and when they arise. It is from this vantage [...]
By Guest Blogger: Tom Walters, Consultant Cantarus Key Definitions from the Member Value 2025 Project Handbook Perceived Member Value: The value existing members feel they receive from access to benefits and services of membership and/or being able to participate. Actual Member Value: The value an existing member actually receives from membership. There are a huge [...]
Author: Richard Gott, MemberWise Network Founder & Chair The current membership climate is challenging and many organisations are increasing their perceived and actual member value via a range of member benefit-focused development projects. However, an increased focus is required on the topic of member value, particularly with the observed mismatch (outlined in my [...]
By Guest Blogger: Carsten Pleiser, Business Development UK Blue Sky eLearn We all agree, it takes a lot to deliver an amazing event: Finding speakers, planning workshops & creating content that inspires and educates. But too often the speakers present, the spoken words vanish into the air, the audience applause, everyone leaves and the content [...]
Guest Blogger: Susie Kay (The Professionalism Group & MemberWise Ambassador (Governance) Another important deadline is imminent. Changes to the law on trustee automatic disqualifications will come into force on 1st August 2018. Charities have less than two weeks until the disqualification provision of The Charities (Protection and Social Investments) Act 2016 takes effect. Since the [...]
By Guest Blogger: Steve Shiels, Head of Operations Protech At the risk of stating the obvious, how can you deliver value to your members if you don’t understand why they joined your membership organisation or association in the first place? Making sure that you deliver value, consistently and sustainably to members is crucial for all [...]
By Guest Blogger: Janine Chasmer, MemberWise Ambassador (Digital Tranformation) So, you’ve mapped out a personal data inventory, you’ve raised GDPR awareness in your organisation and maybe you’ve even appointed a data protection officer. You’re safe in the knowledge that once May 25th arrives, your organisation will be an air tight data fortress. But compliance success [...]
By Guest Blogger: Alex Lonie Electoral Reform Services As leaders of membership organisations, you are focused on growing your membership and engaging members. Of course, the two goals go hand-in-hand as you are unlikely to succeed with the growth agenda if you do not engage with members effectively. You will want to maximise engagement at [...]
Author: Richard Gott, MemberWise Network Founder & Chair In 2017, the UK membership and association sector rated member engagement as more of a priority than new member acquisition for the first time in recent years. At the same time, however, the topic area was seen as a big challenge. In response, MemberWise delivered the [...]
By Guest Blogger Laura Button, Marketing Account Manager Spindogs Digital membership renewal makes life easier for associations and members Membership renewal looms over every club or association on an annual basis. Talk to any membership leader and they’ll tell you they are always looking for new ideas to make the renewal process easier [...]
Author: Richard Gott, Membership Sector Thought Leader & Chair, MemberWise Network The MemberWise Network is focusing on the critical topic of enabling membership organisations and associations to offer improved member value. In this article (2 of 7) I introduce the concept of Member Lifetime Value (MLV) and how it can be used to calculate [...]
Author: Richard Gott, Membership Sector Thought Leader & Chair, MemberWise Network I am pleased to announce the launch of our latest game changer best practice guide - The Member Value 2025 Project - a topic and a year that requires focus now! The Member Value 2025 Project was initiated to help membership organisations and [...]
By Guest Blogger: Richard Broughton, Director The MTM Agency Welcome back to our rundown of top tips for tackling the marketing challenges faced by member-based organisations. If you haven’t already, check out part 1, where we explore the 1) value of knowing your purpose, 2) understanding the different stages of engagement, and 3)maximising your [...]
By Guest Blogger: Russell Ward Co-Founder of Meta Capability Membership bodies are sitting on a digital gold mine, their Professional Framework and content, but are not using it to their advantage to engage and grow membership. I am relatively new to the Membership world having spent all my life in the Corporate sector working with [...]
By Guest Blogger: Richard Broughton, Director The MTM Agency The marketing challenges faced by member-based organisations are in many ways unique, with specific opportunities and threats. However, in other ways, their route to growth and prosperity is consistent with the strategies exercised by commercial entities selling a traditional product or service. In the case [...]
By Guest Blogger: Amanda Woollaston, Head of Marketing Latcham Direct Attracting potential new members, retaining existing ones and engaging with individuals, at whatever stage they find themselves within the membership lifecycle, is a perennial issue for membership organisations. All membership organisations want to get better at member engagement and through careful planning, working with [...]
By Susie Kay MemberWise Ambassador (Governance) The Professionalism Group Working with several new clients over the last couple of months has reminded me of an issue I tend to go on about at length. How long will an organisation put up with its known internal difficulties before it comes to the conclusion that it [...]
By Susie Kay MemberWise Ambassador (Governance) The Professionalism Group With only a few weeks to go before this year’s Membership Excellence 2018 conference (http://membershipexcellence.com), this is probably the best time to talk about the value of networking. But what is that value and where is its relevance to the issues surrounding governance for membership [...]
By Guest Blogger: Jenny Parsons, COO ProTech According to membership professionals surveyed for the MemberWise Digital Excellence (2017/18) - The Report , the perception of member value has not kept pace with rising membership levels and member engagement. This is a serious issue for membership organisations and associations, especially as 2025 approaches. 2025 is [...]
Author: Susie Kay Organisation: The Professionalism Group Role: Governance Ambassador As a member of the Institute of Directors, it has been painful to watch the unfolding story of their governance problems being played out in public over the past week. The daily revelations of claim and counter-claim, suspensions and resignations, demonstrate once again [...]
By Guest Blogger: Sarah Corney, Head of Customer Experience Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development Ever wondered what your members are really thinking, if your messages are really resonating? If your members’ hearts and minds truly align to your organisation’s purpose? We certainly did. At CIPD we’ve developed an index that measures how our brand [...]
By Guest Blogger: Jenny Parsons, COO ProTech Wouldn’t it be great if increasing member engagement had dropped off the outstanding priority list for Not for Profit (NFP), Membership or Association organisations? Why? Because it would mean that the sector had ‘cracked’ one of the biggest challenges it faces. Sadly, the sector is not there [...]
By Guest Blogger: Paul Dawson-Hart, Member360 It should come as no surprise that as with all things GDPR there’s a lot of crap information out there and the new role of Data Protection Officer (DPO) is no different. An entire blog could be to dedicated GDPR FUD but rather than ranting; Jon Baines, Chair of [...]
By Guest Blogger: Carsten Pleiser, Business Development UK Blue Sky eLearn You are looking to attract as many members as you can to your annual meeting or conference, but are you catering for those who stay for a variety of reasons, from budget to personal? Did you know that only 15-20% of possible delegates [...]
The MemberWise Network is delighted to announce that it has obtained the Provider of Training Excellence (PTE) accreditation awarded by the Professional Development Consortium. This formal accreditation highlights and acknowledges the quality and calibre of the training and events programmes that the MemberWise Network delivers. Most importantly it confirms that our content is of a [...]
By Guest Blogger: Paula Downey Jones, Chief Financial Officer SmartDebit Late payments are a popular topic nowadays, with businesses, politicians and the media discussing its impact. Undeniably, it affects both individual businesses and the country’s economy. A recent survey by Zurich Insurance claimed that SMEs are owed a total of £44.6 billion in late [...]
