3 ways to break down organizational silos
“Silo” has become a buzzword in the association industry. It almost always carries bad connotations, suggesting a culture that stifles connection and collaboration. Silos are groups that emerge in the workplace, in departments, projects or committees, that become so insular they do not share any knowledge or efforts with other silos who may be working on similar […]
Envision 2030 to save your association
When I speak with organizations struggling to revive their dwindling membership, my responses always boils down to the same mantra: Visit the future, and mind the gaps. Be aware of what and who is coming your way. I ask these organizations, have you engaged with interested young people? How much time have you invested in […]
How AI will keep membership personal
Looking to the immediate future of our associations, we are faced with a tension. Our organizations are committed to expanding our membership pools and extending outreach while also continuing to engage, interact with and establish meaningful connections between our members. But as our communities grow, the possibility of really knowing our members and effectively responding […]
How going Lean can steer you in the right direction
Lean startup is an innovation system developed by Eric Ries that came out of his experiences with lean process improvement, which is all about reducing waste and defects and working more efficiently and effectively. Ries had an insight: It doesn’t matter how quickly you’re moving if you’re headed in the wrong direction. Lean startup methodology […]
The benefits of micro-credentials
Education comes in a wide variety of forms. As associations, we recognize the value of certifications as a means of proving education and often offer such programs to help members climb the expertise ladder of their industry and prove their worth to employers. This proof of skills and knowledge through certifications does not come cheap […]
3 keys to increasing member retention
When the end of the year rolls around at an association, some people fail to renew their membership. Maybe it’s forgetfulness, or maybe it’s a lack of value in the association or industry attrition. What can associations do to minimize this number and encourage these folks back into the fold? After years of working as an […]
Try the less is more approach to non-dues revenue
All associations want to maximize revenue in order to better serve their members. Non-dues revenue channels can be a great opportunity for associations to broaden the range of services they offer and to build relationships with other bodies in their industry. But a deluge of products, conferences and publications aimed at increasing revenue can distract […]
Why your team may actually need cliques and silos
Do you know why cliques and silos form in your team or organization? It has nearly become cliché to hear from organizations that “our sales staff cannot stand to work with those service guys,” or “we have people inside our department who just won’t communicate!” Many teams struggle with situations where different departments, or even […]
What is the workforce crisis?
We live in an era of disruption. The workplaces and career trajectories we took for granted in the past no longer exist. Due to changes in technology, the economy and changing needs of generations from Baby Boomers to Millenials, the shape of the labor force must be reimagined in order to survive. This applies to […]
Seeking volunteers for an association industry campaign
You’re at a cocktail party surrounded by unfamiliar people. New faces loom, eager to strike a conversation, but there is one hurdle you know you’re going to have to heave yourself over each time they try. “What do you do?” one friendly stranger asks. Here it goes again. “I work in the association industry.” “The what?” […]