PDG Chris Offer, RRIMC 2004-05, Teaches Us How to Recruit New Members
Below is a brief recapitulation of his insights:
Statistics:
- Average age of all Rotarians worldwide 50 +/-
- 42% of membership lost during first 3 years of joining
- Female membership, at 13% worldwide, is under-represented
Membership Recruitment Plan:
Chris emphasized that, like running a business, one needs to put together a plan which should include the following components:
- Set a goal of NET growth?i.e., new members less lost members
- "Advertise"?word of mouth, local media, resources group
- How to get members involved in Projects
- Expand need for humanitarian services
- Where appropriate, obtain financial support from Rotary International
The 5 "I" in recruiting:
- Identify?from among church, sports, client, family, and social groups
- Inform?Tell them about Rotary
- Invite?friends to Rotary meetings
- Induct?them into Rotary
- Involve?them in Projects
A new member needs:
- A sponsor?someone to encourage him/her to meetings
- An assignment within the club and Rotary projects
- Nourishment/training/education about Rotarian-ism
Thank you Chris for your useful tips!