Page 6 - PowerPoint Presentation

Tags and Swipes, Winter 2018

From Our Regional Membership Director

Membership growth and retention…
more like oil and water

What we are experiencing with our membership numbers … the ups and downs is really no different than
other Regions. In fact not much different from other organizations. It seems you get 5 perspective members…
2 that join your chorus and then later that year you have 3 current members that resign or change to associate
members.

How do we retain our faithful members; as they mature and show signs of “burn out” or at least “slow down”
while entertaining energietc prospective members? Yes the over achievers are there too.

In the beginning that is easy. For the new member catching up on the current repertoire as well as realizing
we move AND sing… is all exciting and challenging to them. Feeling how the harmonies lock chords and
the ringing; meeting new people.

6 months later they have caught up; they have acclimated into the chorus family. And they’ve experienced
their first competition. Now What ??

We need to think outside the box. Why not think about giving them a new song to learn? Encourage
quarteting Or start a VLQ ( very large quartet) with some of the chorus over achievers. Or give them a couple
songs to “try out” knowing they may not make the repertoire. Most of them are thirsty to learn.

Newer members bring with them fresh ideas. They don’t have the “we’ve always done it this way” attitude.
We need to listen to them; give them a focus. And allow us seasoned members to feel their excitement. What
knowledge of social media… technology could they share with us or marketing… How did they find us?
Get them involved.

I am so excited to have such capable, enthusiastic members of Region One working with on the Membership
Resource staff; Annette, concentrating on assisting you build your membership; Judy; there to guide you thru
maintaining your membership and Marie is available to provide alternative membership solutions.

Our design is to meet with every chorus; get to know you all better, to understand and celebrate your
uniqueness. To support your strategy for membership growth and retention. Please share your ideas, what
works for you and why. We’re ready to listen!

Let us all become so passionate that when you hit the right notes and it rings making your teeth hurt; your ears
buzz ; your hair stand up….. so many chills so little time; you just can’t help but share it with the world.

Have a great year!!

Deb Richard
DebRichard@maine.rr.com
Regional Membership Director,
Regional Executive Committee

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North Atlantic Region 1 Sweet Adelines