Keeping an organization alive is in many ways dependent upon finding and retaining new members. Here are some suggestions on how to attract new members.
In order for any organization to stand the test of time, it is essential to attract and retain new members. This is a task that can appear to be intimidating, but really is not all that difficult. After all, all of us at one time or another were new members of an organization. Perhaps the first thing to do is remember why you were attracted to an organization. What did it do to get your attention? What made you decide to stick around? Obviously, the organization was doing something right -- you just have to figure out the right techniques for your group to do the same. Here are some suggestions.
Keeping Who You Have
- Keep your meetings to the point, and short and sweet. Effective meetings are usually no longer than two hours. If your meetings start to drag on, some members might grow restless and move on.
- Keep the lines of communication open between meetings via phone calls or e-mails. If people start to lose touch with each other, you may not be able to find them again when the time comes for a major action.
- Always maintain an atmosphere of respect in your meetings. Nothing will make people run, and turn new people off, like constant drama and bickering.
Finding New Members
- Hang posters (with permission, of course) in places such as universities, colleges, unions, or any other place where progressive-minded people gather in your area.
- Have a website with contact information that is easy to locate on the site.
- Be sure to follow up requests for information as soon as possible. Someone should be designated in charge to handle this.
Welcome Newcomers
- At meetings, pass around a sheet for everyone to put their names and contact information on.
- Go around the room and have everyone introduce themselves.
- Have coffee and light snacks, if possible. The responsibility for this can be passed around between meetings.
Keeping in Touch
- Add new members to your listserv as soon as possible, and send a welcome e-mail message.
- Be sure to invite all new members to the next meeting.
- Once or twice a year have an orientation or welcome event, just to socialize and get to know each other better.
Some Additional Concerns
- Is the location where you hold your meetings accessible for persons with disabilities? Think of things such as the entrance and washrooms.
- Is your location accessible for people using public transportation? People won't come to your meetings if they can't get there.
- Are you making an effort to attract people from different age groups and walks of life?
The copyright of the article Attracting New Peace Makers in Peace Making is owned by Paula Kirman. Permission to republish Attracting New Peace Makers in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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