The secret to conveying member value isn't a secret at all. Members who find community through their association get more out of being a REALTOR® than those who don't. Keeping this simple truth in mind is helping hundreds of association leaders across the country build a thriving, engaged membership base.
While the idea of fostering community is simple, actually doing it can often be more difficult than it looks, especially when you have a million other things on your plate.
That's why, starting this month, NAR REALTOR® News is soon launching the Fostering Belonging series. This series, which will feature new content every other week, is built by association executives for association executives.
Earlier this year, I put out a request for the best examples of how association executives have gone above and beyond to foster a sense of belonging and connection among their members. The responses shared ranged from hosting large events to connecting with members at the individual level. Collectively, they inform this new series.
For example, recognizing members with awards that highlight professionalism, success and strong representation of the REALTOR® brand is a proven way to build connection and engagement. Programs like NAR's Good Neighbor Awards extend that impact by celebrating service and community leadership help at all levels of the association. Through the series we ll highlight major initiatives and daily interactions association executives have undertaken to strengthen member engagement.
How-to guides for association executives will supplement many of the articles, so you can bring similar events, programs and initiatives to life in your own way, with your own members.
At the end of the day, this series is all about creating stronger connections to our members because as member-led associations, the connection to our membership is the lifeblood of our organizations.
Thank you to all of the association executives who shared their stories. Fostering stronger connections strengthens associations, improves the member experience and benefits the industry.
