RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS

In some communities, particularly for those not using computers and the internet, it can be difficult to find the local MOAA chapter. It can be a real chore. Many chapters have no local telephone number or other contact information, and frequently chapter websites are out of date.

Once approached, we need to be sure there are no obstaches or barriers that might keep others away or turn them off if they do make a visit.

Language: Military speak? Double-speak?
Ritual: Are there objections to the meeting’s order of events?
Cultural: Is there something about leader or member behavior that’s otherwise inappropriate?
Financial: Is cost of the meal a problem for some?
Political: Is there an open bias one way or the other that will cause others discomfort?

Ok, there might not be anything there. We just need to be sure we’re not pushing anyone away, that we’re not doing something, saying something, behaving in some way, that will cause others to leave and not come back. Look around, and note the new faces and if they choose to return.

Are we putting up unnecessary barriers such as a dress code, or behaving with a political bias offensive to some, or charging too much for dinner/lunch, not greeting folks at the door, being rude and unfriendly?

Are we distracting visitors from the simple message that we just want to influence the directions of national security and protect our earned entitlements, help each other as best we can? Are we complicating the message, that we want to present a unified view on the issues?

We need to consider these things, determine if we are pushing others away, create a chapter environment where others will feel welcome, comfortable, and appreciated. We need to be door openers, not closers.

Websites are useful; they need to be kept up to date. Some kind of easily located local chapter contact information would be important. Newsletters need to be the best we can make them. And of course general dinner/luncheon membership meetings need to take place in an attractive location and feature speakers who are both entertaining and present an interesting and timely topics.

Any obstacles/barriers to recruitment/retention success?

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