Over the last several months we have talked about ways to enhance Rotary’s image, where and how we should focus our message, and how to attract younger, more diverse people to consider joining Rotary.
However, all of this knowledge means nothing if we--meaning every member of every Rotary Club--don’t take the initiative to ASK others to join us. We can’t rely on a committee, or an email/text/Facebook page to do the job for us. We have to have the commitment and gumption to talk directly to our friends, neighbors and colleagues who we think would make good Rotarians.
With that in mind here are five simple ways to help you begin a conversation with a potential prospect:
1. "I've been a part of Rotary for some time now, and it's been a truly rewarding experience. I believe your skills and passions would be a great fit for our community of service-oriented individuals."
2. "I'd love for you to join me at our next Rotary meeting to see firsthand the amazing work we do and the difference we're making in our local and global communities. I think you'd find it inspiring."
3. "In Rotary, we have a strong network of professionals and community leaders who are committed to making a positive impact. Your unique perspective and expertise would be a valuable addition to our team."
4. "Rotary provides opportunities for personal and professional growth through leadership development, networking, and the chance to contribute to meaningful projects. I think you'd find it both fulfilling and beneficial."
5. "I believe that your commitment to service and your passion for making a difference align perfectly with Rotary's values. I'd be honored to have you join us in our efforts to create positive change."
By expressing the positive impact of Rotary, the opportunities for personal and professional growth, and the value of the individual's contribution, you can effectively convey the invitation to join without overwhelming the person with too much information. These simple statements can serve as a friendly and sincere introduction to the idea of becoming a part of the Rotary community.
Hopefully, these tips will give you and your club members some easy to use approaches for asking others to join us. Just think how easily you could double your club’s membership if each current member would get one new member.
But it won’t happen if you don’t ASK!