Forgive me if I mentioned this before: Maintaining and expanding our membership is the responsibility of every member, not just the committee.
But perhaps we should look at some reasons why it is perceived that, in today’s world, there is less interest in joining a Service Club such as Rotary. Then, think about how we are going to address these reasons. Some may be real, but most are imagined.
- Lack of resources. Because of dues and other commitments, membership in clubs has a financial cost that not everybody can afford, especially during hard economic times.
- Lack of time. Life and work pressure keep people busy; membership in clubs may take too much time for some, especially under the traditional weekly meeting format.
- Less prestige. Membership in Rotary may not have today the same prestige that it once had.
- Less professional networking opportunities. Membership may not bring the same professional networking benefits as it did in the past, or at least there are now more alternative ways to network professionally.
- Lack of vitality and size. Some clubs may not look attractive to younger generations; they may not be as vibrant as they used to be, especially when they are very small. [I don't really think we have this problem - I'd challenge anyone to tell me that Surfers Sunrise is not vibrant! But perhaps this is one of the best kept secrets on the Gold Coast!]
- Lack of interest in community service. This last factor is controversial, and personally I don’t believe that there has been a reduction over time in interest in service work, but some have suggested that this also has contributed to membership loss.
So, how are you going to address this? This Wednesday, we'll "formally" meet two new members who transferred from Burleigh Heads club to be closer to their place of work. Whilst that in itself is significant, what is even more interesting is that of these two members are below 40! That much for “today’s young people… etc etc”! Further, our club's recent decision to cater for 'Corporate Membership' certainly can assist! But you need to start. Several decades ago, in a sales training manual, I came across the expression of the 'GOYA principle'. Many of you know what the acronym stands for. OK, if you don't, feel free to ask me! It's still as relevant today as it always was.