Getting inactive members interested again

It's a common problem: How do I get my huge number of members to actually come to the Meetups? Fortunately, many Organizers have wrestled with this already and come up with some great solutions. So take heart — and these suggestions.

Most Organizers agree that you need to stay in touch. Marjorie suggests sending regular emails:

One thing that I think helps is sending out emails at least 2-3 times a month to group members. The topic doesn't seem to be as important as the regular contact. I have sent out messages welcoming new members, announcing a new poll, announcing a new event, and one telling people how to contact me.

Leah thinks it's important to show what's going on at your Meetups:

Take some group pictures at the next event. After uploading them send out an email to ALL members with the photo page link in the email. I did that for our group this morning and by looking at the *members recent activity* I see a couple of members came to the site that had not been there in a very, very long time.

Sarah Kegley, Organizer of The Sacramento Hiking Meetup and one of our Meetup Organizers of the Week, agrees:

We post pictures of our events (hikes) - nothing like a visual to get folks motivated! They can see that we are normal people that are of all ages. Nothing to fear!

Medina, Organizer of the ever-popular Miami Bellydance Meetup, sends out regular newsletters to members. Try reading 'The power of group newsletters' for tips on creating your own.

Other ways to communicate:

• Encourage members to use the group message board. New members may feel more comfortable chatting on the boards before they are ready to meet people face to face.

• Ask for opinions. Try polling your members to see where they'd like to meet.

• Respond when Members contact you. Members feel more involved with the group if they get a response within a couple days of an e-mail!

• Announce new members. Emailing the group when new people join makes everyone feel welcome.
  

Be warned: You may try these things and still get no response. But before you remove anyone permanently, consider this: Life is crazy. Just because a member hasn't visited for a few months doesn't necessarily mean they won't return. They could just be busy or have something new in their life that's taking up their time.