How to transform Your Marketing with Storytelling?
Are you looking to connect more deeply with your audience? 🤔 Storytelling isn't just for books. It's a powerful tool that can bring your marketing messages to life!
🔹 Why Storytelling?
Personal Connection: Make your brand relatable and memorable.
Emotional Impact: Stories touch hearts and change minds.
📚 Dive into our latest blog, where we break down the essentials of storytelling to help you captivate and resonate with your community.
👉 Read the full article here! Start crafting stories that stick and see the magic happen. ✨
#Storytelling #MarketingStrategy #AssociationMarketing #MemberEngagement #ContentMarketing
Elevate your professional association with the expertise it deserves! 🌟
Our latest article unveils how an Association Management Company like Congrex can catalyse your organisation's growth and success. From full-service management to specialised administrative support, we cover it all.
Ready to harness the power of expert association management? 📈💡
Dive into the insights and discover why European associations trust us to guide their journey. Your association's future starts here!
Read more 👉 https://congrex.com/blog/what-is-an-association-management-company-amc/
#Congrex #AssociationManagement #GrowthStrategy #ProfessionalDevelopment #SuccessStory
📈 Elevate Your Event Experience! Our latest blog post explores event technologies that are transforming how we engage attendees. 🚀
From immersive Virtual Reality to interactive Event Apps and AI-driven solutions, discover the future of event management. 🤖📱
Learn how these innovations can enhance your next event, creating impactful and memorable experiences. Stay ahead in the dynamic world of event planning!
Read more in our insightful article and see how Congrex is at the forefront of these exciting developments.
🔗 https://congrex.com/blog/improving-the-attendee-experience-with-event-technology/
#EventTech #InnovationInEvents #EventProfs #Congrex #FutureOfEvents #EventPlanningExcellence
[Background Music Playing] Welcome to our guide on Inclusive and Accessible Conferences. Note: This video has no spoken dialogue.
🎉 Happy Global Accessibility Awareness Day #GAAD2023! Today, we're more committed than ever to creating conferences that are inclusive and accessible to all.
We're excited to share our latest article, "The Event Planning Guide to Inclusive and Accessible Conferences". We dive deep into how diversity and inclusion truly enhance event planning, the critical role of accessible technology, and how to choose inclusive conference formats and venues.
Our top tips? Foster a sense of belonging for everyone, ensure digital accessibility, let all voices be heard, and carry the spirit of inclusion even after the conference. 💡
Want to know more? We've got all the details and strategies in our article. Check it out here 👉 https://congrex.com/blog/event-planning-guide-inclusive-accessible-conferences/
Every day can be a Global Accessibility Awareness Day if we commit to making our events inclusive and accessible. Let's do it together! 🌍
#GAAD #EventPlanning #Diversity #Inclusion #Accessibility #ConferencePlanning #InclusiveDesign #DigitalTransformation
omnichannel marketing for associations
Associations seeking to boost their membership in the wake of declining numbers since 2020 must re-examine their engagement strategies.
An omnichannel engagement strategy ensures associations communicate with their audience across all the platforms they use, providing relevant messaging for each user journey stage.
This approach ultimately works together to achieve a common goal, resulting in a seamless experience for the audience and increased affinity and advocacy for the association.
According to Google, research shows that an omnichannel engagement approach can deliver significantly higher lifetime customer value than standalone marketing strategies.
To learn more about how an omnichannel strategy can benefit your association, read our blog post at https://congrex.com/blog/omnichannel-engagement-membership-retention-association/.
#omnichannel #associations #marketing #engagement #communications
Association Member Onboarding Process - Congrex Switzerland
We understand that each association is unique, with its own goals, values and member demographics. That's why it's so important to tailor the member onboarding process to meet the specific needs of each organisation.
Here are a few ways to achieve this:
👉 Personalise the experience
Consider using personalised communication and resources to make new members feel welcomed and valued. This can include sending personalised emails or offering customised resources based on the interests and needs of each member.
👉 Use data to inform your process
Collect & analyse data on your current onboarding process to identify areas for improvement. Metrics to analyse include engagement and retention rates or surveying new members to gather feedback.
👉 Utilise automation
Automating certain parts of the onboarding process can help you save time & ensure consistency. For example, you could use automated email campaigns or create a personalised onboarding checklist for new members.
👉 Consider offering a mentor or buddy system
Pairing new members with a mentor or buddy can help them feel supported and connected to the community. This can be especially helpful for larger associations or members who may be new to the field.
You can take your member onboarding process to the next level and ensure new members have a positive and valuable experience with your association.
Read more on our blog ➡️ https://congrex.com/blog/member-onboarding-process-success-association/
#association #membership #communication #community #experience #engagement
LI,FB - 5 reasons to go paperless at your association conference
Do you want your next conference to be more sustainable?
Going paperless at your association conference has many benefits:
➡️ Better for the environment
➡️ More cost-effective
➡️ Save time in the production process
In our latest blog post, we discussed five reasons why going paperless is an excellent option for your next conference and provide our top tips for making the transition as easy as possible.
1. Easier to integrate in-person and online environments
By providing your digital association conference program as a website or an application, you can include all essential details for in-person and virtual attendees.
2. Simplify information delivery with a paperless association conference
Delegates can have everything they need at their fingertips with electronic material on tablets and smartphones.
3. More sustainable and green
Going paperless enables you to be more environmentally friendly.
It reduces the number of printed materials you need to create, but you also do not have the concern of waste creation and disposal.
4. Take the stress out of last-minute changes with your paperless association conference
With digital conference programs, you do not have to worry about making changes to your agenda or attendee list and wasting paper.
5. Takeaways can still be provided
Delegates can request materials to be sent to them following the event.
Read our top tips for implementing a paperless conference on our blog https://bit.ly/3j0JHFS
#sustainability #meetingprofs
FB - Seamless integration into the community is key to retaining new members. 15s
One of the key benefits of a strong member onboarding process is that it helps to seamlessly integrate new members into the community.
This is especially important in today's world, where many associations are relying on virtual communities to connect with their members.
Providing new members with the resources and support they need to get involved in the community can help ensure that they feel connected and engaged from the start.
Not only does this make new members feel welcome, it also encourages them to contribute to the community and get the most value out of their membership. Helping new members understand how to access and utilise the community inspires active participation and helps them take advantage of all that your association has to offer.
The onboarding process presents an opportunity to provide new members with the right resources and support to make them feel connected and engaged. This can ultimately lead to higher retention rates and a stronger, more vibrant community.
Discover more about effectively onboarding new members on our blog ➡️ https://bit.ly/3GIx77d
FB - Did you know that the member onboarding process can have a huge impact on the success of your association 15s
As an association, acquiring new members is an important goal.
But it's not just about getting people to join – it's about retaining them and ensuring that they have a positive experience as members.
That's where the member onboarding process comes in 👇
An effective onboarding process helps to establish a strong foundation for new members. It helps orient them to your organisation, its culture, values, and goals.
If you provide new members with the necessary information and support, you can help ensure that they feel welcomed and connected to your community from the start.
But the benefits of a thorough onboarding process extend far beyond just helping new members feel comfortable. It also helps to set the stage for their long-term engagement and success within your association.
By giving new members the tools they need to succeed, you can help them make the most of their membership and contribute to the overall success of your organisation.
In short, the member onboarding process is a vital component of your association's success.
It helps to build a strong community, retain valuable members, and ensure that everyone is able to make the most of their membership. So, if you want to increase retention rates and improve the overall success of your association, don't underestimate the power of a well-planned onboarding process.
Read more about how you can maximise the results of your member onboarding process on our latest blog post ➡️ https://bit.ly/3GIx77d
what makes a science conference successful - 44s
What makes a science conference successful?
There are many factors that contribute to the success of a science conference, but some key elements include:
✅ A strong and diverse lineup of speakers, with a mix of established experts and emerging voices in the field.
✅ Engaging and informative sessions that cover a range of topics and offer something for everyone.
✅ Opportunities for networking and collaboration, such as poster sessions, roundtable discussions, and social events.
✅ A well-organized and user-friendly conference program, with clear information and schedules.
✅ A supportive and welcoming conference atmosphere, where attendees feel comfortable and valued.
Ultimately, the success of a science conference depends on the quality of the content, the value it offers to attendees, and the overall experience of participating in the event.
By focusing on these key areas, conference organizers can create an engaging and rewarding experience for all involved.
#scienceconference #networking #professionaldevelopment
why the member onboarding process is important
The member onboarding process for associations is crucial for several reasons.
👉 First, it helps to build a strong foundation for the relationship between the association and its members.
By providing clear information and support during the onboarding process, associations can help new members feel welcome and engaged, which can foster a sense of loyalty and commitment.
👉 Second, the onboarding process can help associations understand the needs and preferences of their members.
By gathering feedback and data during the onboarding process, associations can gain valuable insights that can be used to improve services and programs and tailor content and communications to the specific needs of their members.
👉 Finally, an effective member onboarding process can help to ensure that new members are able to get the most out of their membership.
By providing access to resources and opportunities, and by connecting members with other members and potential partners, associations can help to create a vibrant and supportive community.
In short, the member onboarding process is an important investment in the success and sustainability of an association.
By putting effort and thought into this process, associations can set the stage for long-term engagement and growth.
#associationmembership #onboarding #memberretention
LI,FB - 8 key steps for planning a successful science conference
Planning a conference can be exciting yet overwhelming. We’ve put together 8 key steps you must consider when planning a conference event:
✅Define the purpose of the conference
What are you hoping to accomplish by hosting a conference? What topics do you want to cover? Once you clearly understand the purpose of the conference, you can begin to develop a plan.
✅Choose a date and location
Plan ahead, and give your attendees and speakers time to plan their trip. Choose a date and location that is appealing and a date that does clash with other important dates in the industry.
✅Select a conference venue
Consider the capacity, amenities and cost of the venue. Ensure it is accessible for everyone, with wheelchair access across the venue. Make sure it is accessible by various public transport links so those who are not local have an easy time attending. Check your venue is available for the dates you require.
✅Develop a budget for the conference
Consider the costs associated with hosting an event, such as marketing, food and beverage, audio/visual equipment, and more. Then, you can look for funding, ticket pricing or other ways to offset some of your costs. Don’t forget to keep track of all your expenses.
✅Create a marketing plan
Consider your audience and how best to target them. Perhaps social media or email marketing? Don't forget to create a website for your conference will all the relevant information.
✅Develop an agenda
Consider the needs of your attendees and what topics you want to cover during the event. Determine how long each session will last, be sure to leave room for breaks and plenty of networking opportunities.
✅Book speakers and panellists
The quality of the speakers and researchers and the material they present will make for a successful conference. Aim for a balance of genders and ages to give your attendees a scope of knowledge and backgrounds.
✅Arrange travel and accommodation for attendees
It is important
Congrex CEO Julia Bicher End of Year Message
"End The Last Year With A Sweet Smile, And Let Joy And Excitement Be The Emotions You Carry Into The New Year."
Dear Friends,
It is the time to look back at a year full of wonderful memories, events and great experiences. 2022 was a very special year for us as a company – if you are wondering why, click on the link below to take a look at the video and find out more.
We would like to express our thanks for making the last forty years possible. It has been a pleasure working together with all our clients and suppliers.
Before we get back into full swing in 2023, we'll take a break to enjoy the holidays. The Congrex offices will therefore be closed from 22nd December to 1st January.
We wish everyone a peaceful holiday season and a successful 2023.
Julia Bicher
CEO / Partner
>>The above is the content of our December Mailing. You can subscribe here to receive our future mailings directly to your inbox: http://eepurl.com/gJCB5L <<
video - First impressions - do they matter
First impressions - do they matter?
Yes of course! The first interaction your new member has with your association can have a marked impact on whether they choose to renew when the time comes.
Here are our 7 top tips for creating a smooth onboarding process for your members:
✅ Tip #1: Social media & email
Use your social platforms to broadcast your message and use private groups to build community engagement between members.
Send a personalised welcome email to new members and create member-only content to share in your email updates.
✅ Tip #2: Using association member onboarding videos
Use videos to take new members through the signup process.
Or experienced members can be interviewed to discuss their experience and knowledge gained - demonstrating the value your association provides.
Another idea is to use video for marketing, such as showing new members where to find exclusive discounts or offers.
✅ Tip #3: Outline the membership benefits of your association
Make sure you are telling all new members what a great choice they have made in joining and enforcing all the benefits they will receive as a member.
Demonstrate your value straight away in your welcome email.
✅ Tip #4: Engage new members
Member engagement is vital in making your new members feel welcomed.
Make sure you introduce them to your social platforms and tag them whenever necessary.
This will make new members feel included & develop a sense of belonging in the association.
✅ Tip #5: Create a community
Community building is as important as ever. In particular online communities are huge for associations.
Use your private groups to build relationships with your members. Reach out to them often - ask questions, create polls, deliver valuable content.
Encourage long time members to interact with new members and welcome them into the fold.
✅ Tip #6: Avail yourself
Don't disappear after onboarding is complete.
Be there for new members in case they need help with
FB video - Why is the member onboarding process important for the success of your association
Why is the member onboarding process important for the success of your association?
Your new member's first impression of your association is likely to stick forever & have an impact on their entire membership experience.
It's vital to ensure your member onboarding process is designed appropriately and optimised to work for both your member and your association.
A well-designed onboarding process can help your association in the following ways:
➡️ IMPROVE MEMBERSHIP RETENTION
First impressions matter and can set your member's expectations and value of your association.
The better the early experience, the more likely they are to remain a member and improve your membership retention rates.
➡️ INCREASE ADVOCACY FROM YOUR MEMBERS
Word of mouth remains the top channel for association member acquisition.
Ensure your members have good early experiences to inspire advocacy & referrals for your association that can ultimately lead to higher member acquisition.
➡️ SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATE NEW MEMBERS INTO THE COMMUNITY
Community building is one of the most important aspects of high-value associations.
Your onboarding process is where you can ensure new members know how to access & utilise the community so that they can both contribute to & receive value from it.
➡️ ENCOURAGE MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
Members who feel engaged with your association & wider community are more likely to renew.
Once again, your onboarding process can significantly impact your association's long-term membership retention.
By encouraging engagement right from the start of their membership experience, you can improve the retention rates of your members & make them more valuable members of your community & the wider industry.
Members are integral to the growth & success of an association. You must develop an appropriate member onboarding process to give them the best start.
View our blog to read more about the onboarding process ➡️ https://bit.ly/3EQsMwB
Omnichannel marketing (part 3 of 3)
Omnichannel marketing for associations (Part 3 of 3)
Once you have your segments, you can start to create content that communicates your message in a highly-relevant and targeted manner.
➡️ PERSONALISE YOUR MESSAGING ACROSS CHANNELS
For example, if you are targeting young female professionals, you may use graphics that primarily feature women and copy that focuses on progressing in their careers.
Depending on the user’s journey stage, you will also need to adapt your messaging.
If this is one of the first times hearing about your brand, you will likely need to share some more background information and context compared to messaging for a user who is further along in their journey.
➡️ COMMUNITY BUILDING
Word of mouth remains the top channel for association member acquisition and should be prioritised within your omnichannel engagement strategy.
Building a community for your members and supporters is one of the most effective ways to create omnichannel engagement in your association.
This means that messages will not only be coming from your official communication channels but will also be organically generated by your existing members across all their communication platforms.
➡️ TEST, LEARN AND ADAPT
An omnichannel engagement strategy should evolve with your audience and your association’s goals.
This means continuously testing new segments and personalisation, learning more about your audience, and adapting your strategy as required.
Omnichannel engagement is a 365-day strategy that can help you maximise your reach with the audience, maintain awareness outside of annual conferences, and position yourself as the leading association in your field.
➡️ Get in touch with Congrex Switzerland for our support in managing and growing your association https://bit.ly/3Te3LAD
Omnichannel marketing (part 2 of 3)
Omnichannel marketing for associations (Part 2 of 3)
To ensure you can deliver consistent messaging across your communication, you must define the common goal for all platforms.
➡️ DEFINE THE COMMON GOAL OF THE PLATFORMS
Do not be confused – the objective of the individual content does not have to be the same (e.g. click on this link, react to this post, follow our social media).
However, every message in the journey should help the user get closer to the ultimate goal they want to achieve, such as renewing their membership or registering for an upcoming event.
Your next step will be to segment your members for better personalisation.
➡️ SEGMENT YOUR MEMBERS FOR BETTER PERSONALISATION
Based on the information you found when researching the previous step, you should be able to see some apparent differences and similarities across your target audience.
It’s essential to segment your audience according to their preferences so that you can create personalised communication (this will be important for the next step) that will appeal to their specific needs rather than something too broad to be relevant.
How you segment your audience will depend on the goal(s) you want to achieve. Some standard segmenting options include:
✅ Interests
✅ Demographics
✅ Professional groupings, e.g. experience, job title
Ideally, it would be best if you looked to create reactive segments that update based on how a user interacts with your other communication – this is what will help you take your communication from multichannel engagement to omnichannel engagement.
For example, you may target users differently once they open an email, visit your website, or see your ad on social media.
Read more on our blog https://bit.ly/3t33iXl
Omnichannel marketing (part 1 of 3)
Omnichannel marketing for associations (Part 1 of 3)
To successfully achieve omnichannel engagement with your audience, your association needs to clearly understand whom you want to engage with.
➡️ RESEARCH YOUR AUDIENCE
Gather data on:
✅ Your audience’s preferred platforms
✅ How they move from one platform to another throughout their journey
✅ Audience demographics
✅ Audience interests – both in-sector and other
✅ What are their challenges and goals?
Ensuring you have this data before you get started will give you a higher chance of successfully reaching your audience with the right message at the right time.
Read our blog post about omnichannel marketing and how to implement it for your association https://bit.ly/3t33iXl
What is omnichannel engagement
What is omnichannel engagement, and why do associations need it?
Many organisations have seen a decline in membership since 2020 - and an outdated engagement strategy plays a significant role in this.
➡️ Omnichannel engagement involves having consistent and personalised cross-channel communication with your audience.
➡️ While most organisations may already utilise multiple communication channels with their audience, each communication platform is often used for a different goal.
➡️ This approach lacks an awareness of the user journey across platforms (making this a multichannel engagement strategy rather than an omnichannel engagement strategy).
➡️ An omnichannel engagement strategy helps associations communicate with their audience across all the platforms they use with relevant messaging for the audience’s stage in their journey that ultimately works together to achieve a common objective.
➡️ The experience feels seamless for the audience and increases their affinity and advocacy for your organisation.
➡️ Research from Google shows that omnichannel engagement can deliver significantly higher lifetime customer value than standalone marketing strategies.
If you want to learn more about what an omnichannel strategy can do for your #association, read our latest blog https://bit.ly/3t33iXl
![[Background Music Playing] Welcome to our guide on Inclusive and Accessible Conferences. Note: This video has no spoken dialogue.](https://img2.evepla.com/v/327/636/785596513276360.jpg)
