First Steps
Tell your story. The IECA and your local chapter provide lots of value to you. Why did you join? What’s the reason you’re a member today?
Ask questions. Focus on their needs. Find out their specific concerns and address them directly with your own experiences.
Make it easy for them. Have a blank application handy (don’t forget a pen!). Offer to mail a completed application on the new member’s behalf. “Let’s fill this out now and get the ball rolling.”
Demonstrate respect. If a prospect sounds uncertain, consider saying “It sounds like you aren’t ready to make a commitment today. I want you to feel good about your decision to join, so here’s an application and here’s my card. I’d like to follow up with you in a week to see if you have any questions I can answer, okay?” If a prospect offers a flat no, consider saying “I completely understand how you feel, maybe now is not the right time. I hope we can stay in touch.”
Be sure to say thanks. Send them a short message thanking them for considering IECA membership and supporting the stromwater, erosion and sediment control industry.
Other Tips
Recruiting a new member is a process, not an event. You may need to approach the topic multiple times from a variety of perspectives. Becoming a member involves making a change, and change can be a gradual process, even when the outcome is beneficial.
Think conversation rather than sales pitch. Sharing your feelings about membership is sharing good news with a colleague, like a restaurant recommendation.
When discussing membership with a prospect, listen for clues as to what they look for in a professional society. Stress those member benefits that meet their needs.