Meetup Messenger, Issue #7: Steal from Wal-Mart for your Meetup

Steal From Wal-Mart for Your Meetup!

by Scott Heiferman (CEO of Meetup; Organizer of NY Tech Meetup)

Congratulations, Meetup Organizers: You got over 200,000 new members in January... that's a record and a great start for 2007!

Now, how do you help your new members get off to a good start and be involved to make your Meetup even better?

It’s simple. Steal from Wal-Mart. Be like a Wal-Mart Greeter, the folks that say hello, smile, and are there if you have any questions.

Here’s some advice from other Organizers:

"Drop a personal note via e-mail...if a member feels important to the group's success or feels "noticed" than they will be more likely to attend." -- Helen, a Moms Meetup Organizer

"I try to introduce myself to everyone...First impressions are very important." -- Jenn, an Organizer of a English Meetup

So, the 2 important things for you to decide are:

1. Who's your "Email Greeter", to send a quick personal email to welcome all new members?
   
2. Who's your "Door Greeter", to welcome every attendee and introduce them around at your Meetup?

You're crazy for Organizing a Meetup... And you're a hero for doing it!
-- Scott