Your organization is growing—that’s great! But once you’ve attracted new members to your organization, how do you greet them? Welcome emails and new membership packets filled with helpful information have typically been the norm, but a new method might give more value.
Consider creating new member orientation webinars to help introduce your organization and convey important information virtually. Here’s a quick overview of the advantages of welcome webinars.
What’s a Webinar?
A webinar is a video-recorded workshop or lecture that can take the place of (or add additional information to) a traditional, in-person meeting or seminar. These videos can be instructional to provide training, provide helpful tips for fundraising or other growth strategies, or simply give its audience an educational overview of the history and mission of your organization.
[Related: What Benefits Actually Matter to New Members?]
What to Include in a Welcome Webinar
Skip the lengthy paper packet and add a video welcome to your new member emails. In addition to necessary information, you can include brief introductions from other active members, and have them share what your organization means to them.
When new members see “regular” people like them discuss their love of an organization, or a transformative story of how they found value in an organization, they are more likely to feel instantly engaged and inspired.
Help You Go Green
Beyond providing a more engaging experience, you’re also potentially replacing dozens of paper packet mailers that could lay untouched in drawers or thrown in the trash. Did you know that Americans, on average, use 650 pounds of paper a year—each? If your organization has goals to “go green” and become more eco-friendly, this is a great first step.
[Related: Tips for an Outstanding New Member Onboarding Process]
Welcome Members Who Cannot Attend In-Person Orientations
Video welcomes can also take the place of, or be used in addition to in-person new member orientations. Providing exciting and educational new member content via a webinar can help members who don’t have the means or time to attend these in-person events feel involved.
Create Opportunities for Current Members to Volunteer
In addition to providing value to new members, the process of recording short interviews or statements can offer plenty of opportunities for current members to volunteer without the time commitment of serving on a committee.
If you have any questions about the value of adapting your organization to new technology, implementing new software, board training, or streamlining your organization’s operations—Dennison and Associates can help. Contact us today to get started!
