Membership

Magnetic Membership: Whither Millennials?

Shari Jacobs, FASAE, CAE highlights the topic that always seems to draw attention people when she's presenting—millennials.

As I have been visiting associations and speaking about the ideas in The Art of Membership, I’ve noticed that one particular presentation slide regularly provokes discussion. It’s about the millennial generation.

From what I’ve observed, there are five key things that members—particularly millennials—ask of their associations:

  1. Teach me.
  2. Listen to me.
  3. Mentor me.
  4. Acknowledge me.
  5. Reward me.

While all five may be important to all generations, millennials are more likely to walk away from an organization if they are unable to give, take, and participate in meaningful ways. My recommendation: Review your policies regarding engaging speakers, authors, contributors, and volunteer leaders to ensure your association addresses all five issues.

(Getty Images RF)

Sheri Jacobs, CAE

By Sheri Jacobs, CAE

Sheri Jacobs, CAE, is president and CEO of Avenue M Group LLC. This article is adapted from her book The Art of Membership, published in January. Email: jacobs@avenuemgroup.com MORE

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