Member Recognition Ideas

Isn’t it nice to be recognized or to have someone notice or thank you for something you did? It is human nature to enjoy feeling appreciated and that “feeling” is an important gift members of the association can give one another. That’s what Member Recognition is all about.

Recognition of members’ accomplishments could be a deciding factor when it comes time for renewal. Many chapters spotlight members when they join the association, both in their publication and at their meetings; but it is just as important to spotlight renewing members. Recognition can be given throughout the year and almost cannot be overdone. Some suggestions:

• Print names in chapter bulletin. As soon as you receive notification from the NALS Resource Center that a member has renewed, print their name in your bulletin.
• Introduce them at chapter meetings. Don’t miss an opportunity to promote your renewing members. Ask them when they joined or explain what it is about their membership that they enjoy (be sure to let them know before the meeting that these questions may be asked).
• Present a membership certificate or plaque that can be displayed in their office.
• Ask members to participate in the program at your meeting.
• Ask them to read the Code of Ethics, Mission Statement, or a motivational message.
• Acknowledge and give appreciation for their service to the chapter or personal accomplishments in publications or at meetings. Interview them and print their testimonial about involvement in the chapter or announce a personal recognition at the meeting.
• Call, write or email members and tell them “thank you for joining.” There are some members who don’t attend meetings. Call, write or email them to let them know you appreciate their support. Tell them about a special project coming up. Encourage them to be as involved as they have time to be or are comfortable doing, and let them know you understand and respect their choices.
  
  Thank members’ employers who support the association. Let the employer know that his/her support staff are using their personal time to increase their knowledge and skills, as well as personal development.
• Present recognition certificates or pins to members with 5, 10, 15 or 20 or more years of membership with the association.
• Recognize achievers:
  • Recognize outstanding member or chairman of the month
  • Recognize volunteer of the month
  • Recognize citizen of the month (encourages community involvement)
  • Recognize committee of the month

A flower or small gift could be given for the above awards, or even use a rotating trophy. Let the current month’s winner select a gift for his/her successor and make the presentation the following month.

Track Membership Renewal Dates for Chapter Members.

The following form may assist you in tracking the month members join your chapter and when it is time to renew their membership. Remember to survey your members a few months before renewals are due to see how your chapter is meeting the members’ wants, expectations and needs.

Use your imagination. There are numerous inexpensive ways to make people feel good about the role they play in the association.