Productivity

Goal setting is easy. Under the best of circumstances, reaching those goals can/should be challenging. Today, navigating the goal-setting process is a whole different ball game. Measurable results are key to the SMART goal process for associations (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-based). If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. There are multiple approaches to benchmarking progress. The use of KPIs (key performance indicators) is essential for tracking results. Regardless of the type of objective, a performance indicator must […]

A job description is like an employer’s sales pitch to candidates – you’ve got to make them descriptive enough to get a candidate’s attention, and interesting enough to keep it. The economy is steadily improving and it’s increasingly a candidate’s job market. The following tips will help you write compelling job descriptions that help your openings rise above the competition. Get more advice on staffing, read The Secret to Hiring for Culture Fit. Lose the Buzzwords Terms like “rock star” and […]

If you could dramatically improve the odds of someone saying yes to joining your association (and your other requests), would you go for it? What if I told you it didn’t take all that much effort? Would you say, “tell me more!”? When it comes to online marketing, many associations make their lives much harder than they need to be. Not sure what I’m talking about or wondering if you’re one of those associations? Imagine this… You’re a successful association […]

Mission Statements are often overlooked or ignored. But, if an association is operating without one, or paying no attention to what’s already in place, they’re making a critical error. A Mission Statement is what ensures an organization stays on its intended course. Is it time to reevaluate and update yours? Is your Board asking for one? Are you asking your Board for one? Whatever the reason may be, taking time to review what’s in place vs. how your organization is […]

When it comes to selecting an association credit card processor, the provider should be efficient, accurate, and affordable. Be sure your organization is looking at the whole picture when it comes to the “fine print,” as you’re shopping for a company to process credit cards for your association, You’ll need to understand each component, be aware of all costs involved, especially different rates. Most importantly, do your research. Read on for tips to help you understand what to watch for […]

As we wrap up another year, we are excited to share that GrowthZone has been recognized with multiple accolades from the Gartner Digital Markets brands – Capterra, Software Advice, and GetApp. Our product has been featured across various flagship reports released in 2024, a testament to the value we continue to deliver to our users. Check out our incredible badges: Capterra Association Management Shortlist Membership Management Software Advice Association Management FrontRunners Membership Management FrontRunners GetApp Association Management Category Leaders “GrowthZone […]

Employee evaluations don’t have to be unpleasant. In fact, the process is the ideal opportunity to boost employees’ empowerment and work together to find common ground. It’s imperative to stay as positive as possible during the process. It’s not helpful to spend time telling an employee what they have done wrong for the past year. After all, it should be a conversation, not a speech. This can be a challenge if the association employee needs to make major improvements. In […]

A powerful AMS delivers ROI by seamlessly integrating with core processes to save costs, generate revenue, and maximize capacity.

This third and final installment of the blog series, “Where to Begin Your Association’s AMS Search” provides a critical checklist for evaluating the vendor’s proposal. When narrowing down your search for association management software, the most important step is to ensure you understand what you are getting and what it will cost. Read Part 1 of the blog series to get an understanding of what features are available Before finalizing your agreement with the software provider, get a solid understanding of […]

A collection of words of encouragement and wisdom for association staff by association staff. From the 2021 Association Survey Results.

Mastering the art of effective communication is the key to success for association professional management. As humans, there is one thing everyone has in common: the need to communicate. Regardless of who you are, what you do, or where you live, your existence depends on communication. Master effective verbal and non-verbal communication by keeping the following tips in mind: Don’t rush It’s important to keep things brief, but not at the expense of getting your message across. Take the time […]

“The difficult people who we encounter can be our greatest teachers.” ~ Eileen Anglin Managing your emotional intelligence is the key to diffusing uncomfortable situations with association co-workers, members, and board members. Use the tips featured in the third of our 4-part blog series, How to Deal with Challenging Members, to help you stay in control while reducing stress in the process. REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL Avoid confrontations in front of others and resist the urge to complain to others about your […]