Page 8 - Transporter Talk - Issue 197

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS
Noel Shipston
membership@vwt2oc.co.uk
Dear Members,
Busfest marked a number of firsts for me. It's not that I haven't been before, but it was my first as a club official including my first shift manning the club stall and the first time that new members had been signed up in person using Crossmember. I have to say that I found the whole experience very enjoyable, and got to meet and greet many wonderful enthusiasts both old and new. I was also able to put faces to the names of members I was already aware of from Facebook, membership applications and renewals etc. Though I have to confess I will probably only remember those I had conversations with on the club field later.
Crossmember has significantly reduced our workload and costs to such an extent that the club will not be increasing the subscription for the foreseeable future. Historically for Busfest, new members used a paper application form which was later typed into the database and membership cards plus welcome letters were printed and posted. This took a colossal amount of time, not to mention the postal costs. This year, new members used their own mobiles, had an automatic welcome email immediately,
then a payment confirmation (giving details of how to get a membership card if desired) once paid. There was nothing for either Val or I to do after the event. We didn't even post out the latest magazines or window sticker usually sent to new members as these were included in goody bags lovingly prepared by Val.
Now, I can hear some of you saying "I thought Val had retired" well yes she has, from the principle role of the Membership Secretary as was, but she is still a very active member of the management team. I am delighted to confirm that Val will remain Membership Secretary and will continue to deal with postal correspondence, field telephone calls and provide support around club events by way of catering and merchandising. My responsibilities revolve around day-to-day membership administration, fielding emails and overseeing the membership system.
I make no apologies for going on about Crossmember as its introduction has really been a game changer. For the club to take full advantage of its benefits (including cost savings), the time has come to review the way in which over 50% of you pay for your membership - regular PayPal subscription. Traditionally
8 | Transporter Talk Issue 197