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Discussion: How do you help new members in your chapter?
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jlpalus |
How do you help new members in your chapter?
Jun 28 2008, 10:00 AM EDT
How does your chorus help new members get up to speed? do you have specific roles for recruitment, orientation, and retention? (definitiosn below are from the SAI "Members Count! Toolkit")"Recruitment” refers to the process of attracting new members. The recruitment effort involves not only the initial chorus visit, but the whole process of preparing a guest for membership. Though the membership committee plays the major role, other chorus entities contribute information and expertise. “Orientation” refers to the process of helping a new member feel comfortable, informed and connected to the chorus as a whole. The orientation period usually lasts about a year, during which time the new member experiences typical chorus performances, shows, and perhaps competition. Choruses which have a high rate of retention generally do a good job of informing and including new members —helping them learn music and choreography in a personalized way, and providing opportunities for friendships to develop. “Retention” refers to whatever it takes to keep the members interested and involved in the chorus. source: Members Count! Toolkit 3 out of 3 found this valuable. Do you?
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SROLead |
1. RE: How do you help new members in your chapter?
Jul 30 2008, 8:37 AM EDT
Oh, I'd be ever so interested in the responses to this as well. We are still in a more-or-less "restructuring" phase and one problem I that faces most choruses is letting new members "fall between the cracks". Any good suggestions out there?????Cathy Bilbrey Smoky Mountain Harmony Chorus Do you find this valuable? |
tammyammy |
2. RE: How do you help new members in your chapter?
Jul 30 2008, 1:39 PM EDT
This is a great topic. Our chorus (SOA) typically has a mentoring program of sorts. In years past we've utilized a "big sister" program which basically has a seasoned member coast through the 1st year with the new member keeping close contact w/her to make sure she understands all thing chorus wise. However, we are currently doing a "rookie mom" program with two of our most nurturing and knowledgable members running the program and they have several special events throughout the year to bring our "rookies" together for educational and mentorship purposes. Not every program works for every chorus, so it's important to figure out what will work for your group and then stick to the plan. Personally, I think the best thing we can do for not only our new members but also our seasoned members is to reach out to one another and genuinely show our appreciation for their presence in our beloved choruses. There are so many ways we can do that even if it's only a smile and a nod from across the risers. I look forward to reading about wonderful ideas here as this topic continues. With a song, Tammy Stuck Song of Atlanta Do you find this valuable? |
