Lorna Blackmore and Jane Barnes – Joint Regional Membership Officers held their first Membership Officer Forum this week via Zoom.
Six clubs out of 11 clubs from across the Region were represented. It was an ideal opportunity to get to know one another. To share what has been happening with membership across the Region. Share what has gone well and what has proved to be a challenge especially during lockdown in the recruitment and retention of members.
We highlighted use of introductory meetings via Zoom, whilst other Membership Officers preferred small face to face gatherings often over a coffee to chat about what Soroptimist means and becoming a member.
Discussed and shared useful tools such as use of induction slides focusing on Club, Region and and Federation level. The benefits of identifying a buddy/mentor for each new member to facilitate their introduction to the club/organisation and support to settle in during the early months.
Explored use of social media such as Facebook, Instagram and Websites to promote what we do as Soroptimists to make a difference more widely. Also reflected on the cost of being a member being the same as the cost of a cup of coffee/ £10 a month subscription that can be paid on a monthly basis.
Feedback was positive and that the conversation was both interesting and informative.
The next Membership Forum will be held via Zoom on Saturday 7 May from 2 – 3pm for all the current Membership Officers and for the new ones appointed at the club AGMs.
Contact either Lorna Blackmore or Jane Barnes if you want to know more.