The 80/20 Rule

Much has been written on this subject.

We’ve all heard it before, 20% of your members contribute to 80% of its success and carry 80% of the load, work/financial, etc.

Remember, you can’t be all things to all people.  So don’t go down that path and try to be.  Focus on your core competencies.

Here are a few provocative statements/ideas:

  • Have you ever fired a member?
  • Told a potential member that the chamber may not be the place for their resources?
  • Kicked any "Sacred Cows" to the curb?

Again, focus on the 20%, that’s your core business.  Don’t apologize to the 80%.  And this goes without saying, you must always deliver the core goods (value) to your members.

That’s why the 20% back you!

As talked about before, a recent study by the Western Association of Chamber Executives (W.A.C.E) identified the following as what members want from their chamber:

  • Advocacy
  • Networking
  • Business education
  • Support the local community
  • Economic development

This is a great place to start your next conversation with your board on what core competencies your chamber should be focused on, the rest just might be considered white noise.

Until next time!

Membership Dues Points

What are your dues points?  What works best for you?

Studies suggest the following three models to be the most widely used in order of popularity:

1.  Tiers - Gold, Silver, Bronze
2.  Full-time employees
3.  Annual budget/sales

There are pro’s and con’s to each, it’s your responsibility to find out what works best for your organization.

Do you have the following membership categories in addition to your current membership?

  • Students
  • Retirees
  • Lifetime members

Also, do you have a minimum dues point?  Have you ever sent money back because they didn’t pay the minimum?  While I’m not an advocate of sending checks back, there are costs to membership.

Again, something to think about!

For more information on membership tiered dues models from Kyle Sexton go HERE.