7 tips for engaging prospective members

WORDS: Regional Membership Officer Barbara Mifsud.

Many times, when someone expresses an interest in getting involved with Rotary, our first impulse is to hand them a membership form and ask them to join our club. Rather than applying pressure and trying to ‘close the deal’ it’s best to think of it as the beginning of a friendship. Like any blossoming relationship, your goal is to build trust and help the prospective member imagine themselves as part of the Rotary community. They may want to join to give back, but friendship and community will become increasingly important. Here are seven tips for helping
a prospective member discover Rotary.

Follow up promptly

Data shows that following up a prospective member enquiry promptly (no later than 48 hours) dramatically increases the probability of someone joining your club. Reaching out promptly lets prospective members know they are valued. Waiting too long can unintentionally give the impression they’re not a priority.

Start with the person, not the pitch

Ask the prospective member about their interests, skills and the causes they care about. Try to match their passions to Rotary, rather than listing your club details or projects.

Talk about your club’s impact

Share one or two impactful stories from your club that are local and tangible. Be specific. For example, ‘We helped three children affected by domestic violence continue their schooling by providing a bursary for books and equipment’. Rather than ‘We raise money for DV’.

Avoid Rotary jargon

Rotary is a complex organisation that can seem overwhelming. Don’t confuse prospective members by using jargon such as ‘district’, ‘DG’, ‘PHF’, ‘TRF’, ‘fellowship’.

Involve them in something small but meaningful

The number one reason people join Rotary is to give back to the community. Invite them to a service project where they can get involved and at the same time see other members in action. Ask them to help with a micro-task: ask them to hand out flyers at an event, help with an event set up, pitch in to pack birthing kits, etc.

Provide a personalised introduction to your club experience

Invite them to a relaxed social event or hands-on activity before a formal meeting. Get them actively working with others. People bond faster when they do something alongside others, rather than just watch. Pair them with a friendly member who will put them at ease, make introductions and explain things.

Follow up with warmth, not pressure

Thank them for coming, give praise for their contribution and seek their feedback. Invite them to the next relevant event, making sure it’s one with great energy and interaction. As the relationship develops, let them know the practical details about joining but keep it friendly and personal.

Remember: whenever someone expresses interest in getting involved, make sure to show them that you care by following up promptly and help them get the best out of Rotary, just as you do.

For more tips about connecting with prospective members go to rotary.org/membership and scroll down to ‘Connect with prospective members’.