As we continue in this new century, it is more apparent that members’ needs and expectations are changing. As a result of the Internet of Things, there is vast availability of information at many levels. Individuals joining out of the need to belong within their profession or industry are no longer the norm. The newer generation is expecting much more.
The current revenue mix for the association community is also 20th-country. As the new ecology takes hold, associations must rethink every part of their revenue options.
Today, we expect individuals to pay annual membership dues, and then we sell them more at additional costs. One option may be to create a subscription membership model as part of the rethinking. In the business world, companies like Amazon, Apple, Spotify, and others have built their businesses through subscription models. The subscription model might look something like this:
“Professional Insights Plus” Membership
The “Professional Insights Plus” membership offers exclusive access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and personalized experiences. It caters to professionals in a specific industry or field who seek continuous growth, knowledge, and meaningful connections.
Key Features May Include:
Curated Content Library:
- Access to an extensive digital library containing research papers, case studies, whitepapers, and industry reports before general distribution.
- Regularly updated content on emerging trends, best practices, and thought leadership. (weekly or bi-weekly)
Live Webinars and Workshops:
- Interactive webinars are led by experts, covering relevant topics such as technology advancements, regulatory changes, and career development. (a specific number over the year)
- Hands-on workshops for skill enhancement (e.g., project management, leadership, data analytics).
Peer-to-Peer Networking:
- Exclusive online forums and discussion groups for members to connect, share insights, and collaborate.
- Exclusive regional and global networking events (both virtual and in-person) to foster meaningful relationships.
Mentorship Program:
- We pair experienced professionals with early-career members.
- Regular mentorship sessions, career advice, and guidance.
- Mentorship Programs are challenging to establish and maintain, so be careful.
Professional Certification Discounts:
- Provide substantial discounts on industry-specific certifications (e.g., project management, data science, cybersecurity, discipline-specific).
- Enhance members’ credentials and career prospects.
Member-Only Research Reports:
- Access to proprietary research conducted by the association.
- Insights into market trends, salary benchmarks, and industry/discipline forecasts.
Career Center:
- Provide job postings, resume-building tools, and interview preparation resources.
- Institute opportunities to connect with employers seeking specialized talent.
Remember, this model can be customized further based on the association’s specific goals, target audience, and industry/discipline focus.