Associations Live

Umprove Your LinkedIn Profile

2012-01-18T08:47:00.007-06:00

The MSAE Communications Networking Group was lucky to have Tara Loftus from adapta INTERACTIVE share her expertise and wisdom about all things online....

20 Ways to Use LinkedIn Productivity
http://bit.ly/AhF8DD

Board Orientation Best Practices

2012-01-03T13:55:00.002-06:00

MSAE's Financial & Accounting Networking Group recently met to discuss board orientation best practices, from a fiduciary perspective. Here are the top takeaways from the meeting:

Include a confidentiality section as part of your board orientation and policies.
Post minutes, board packets and policies online - it will save you time and money!
You must have D&O insurance and make sure check what it covers - limits, etc.

The group will be meeting again in 2012 - stay tuned for meeting dates.

Happy New Year - 2012

2012-01-03T10:16:00.000-06:00

The Holidays fell on the weekend this year, so it seemed to stretch the season for an eternity. We are back at it now - ready to gear up for a new year of imagining, planning, visioning, adapting, serving. Working in an association requires skills in many areas. MSAE will be working to help association professionals learn about these many attributes and will provide numerous opportunities to connect with peers and colleagues. As you head into the new year remember, life's possibilities are endless.

Ask an Executive Director, A Panel Discussion

2011-11-29T12:08:00.003-06:00

MSAE's Young Professionals hosted a panel discussion on November 18th. The discussion gave audience members a chance to learn from three successful executive directors and ask them the tough questions about how to thrive in association work.

Panelists:

Mary Detloff, MN Society of Professional Engineers
Paul Hanscom, Ewald Consulting
Derek Hazeltine, PLUS

Here are the top takeaways from this meeting:

Make sure to develop your interpersonal communication skills. Especially the ability to communicate difficult messages with tact.
Have realistic expectations of your volunteers. Communicate requirements up front, and don’t be afraid to let something fail so volunteers learn to take ownership.
Learn from your failures by taking responsibility and offering solutions to correct the problem.
Learn about all areas of association management
Get in person networking and education
Think about getting your CAE - Institute is another great opportunity
Tackle challenges head on
Be a thinker and idea generator
Volunteer on a board of directions to see the other side
Clearly communicate your expectations with volunteers up front

Resources:

How to Make Friends and Influence People
Bob Harris (boards), Ron Rosenberg (marketing), Ed McMillan (finance)
7 Measures for Success
Race for Relevance
Toastmasters (improve your public speaking)
Daniel Pink
Steven Covey (older books)

Tips from CEOS

2011-11-21T10:04:00.001-06:00

Panel discussion at MSAE featured three experienced CEOs who shared tips and techniques: Derek Hazeltine, PLUS, Mary Detloff, MN Society of Professional Engineers, and Paul Hanscom, Ewald Consulting:

Listen more. Learn something new or meet someone new everyday. Get your CAE. Tackle challenges head on. Foster teamwork. Empower others. Delegate. Serve on a board to experience being a volunteer. Encourage employees to grow. Focus on solutions.

Taxes for Online sales starting to look possible

2011-11-11T08:51:00.006-06:00

Jim Puzzanghera from the Los Angeles Times reported that lawmakers, looking to help cash strapped local governments, are coalescing around legislation aimed at letting states require most online retailers to collect sales taxes from customers.

http://lat.ms/rMseg5

A conversation or a meeting?

2011-11-07T10:42:00.005-06:00

Harvard Business Review says... have conversations instead of meetings. That's just what MSAE has been doing with our bar camps and our recent CEO only conversations. It's a good way to collect data and create community. http://bit.ly/uZek7l

Marketing Strategy & Evaluation of Programs

2011-10-31T15:56:00.005-05:00

Here are a few good questions to consider asking in your next education survey (these questions help measure the experience, not just the quality of the programming):

How did you feel after the conference?
What made you come?
What did we miss?
What keeps you up at night?
Everyone in the industry is talking about...?
Your top priority this year is...?
This will be a great conference if...? (include on the registration form)

Other ideas to consider for your next survey:

Offering an incentive or prize is a good way to encourage attendees to complete surveys; several of our members give away free tickets to the conference next year, others have a budget for survey prizes (iPads, etc.).
PollEverywhere.com - survey text option and inexpensive, can also email and tweet responses.
Send out a "Didn't Attend the Conference Survey" to find out why members aren't attending.

Marketing Ideas

Turn features into benefits - take your marketing collateral and highlight all features in blue, benefits with yellow - how much is highlighted in yellow? Turn these features into benefits (sometimes asking the question, so what? helps).
Customize when at all possible.
When in doubt, less is more.
Have a social media policy. MEA Forum Rules & Social Media Guidelines MEA Conference Policy

The World of Mobile

2011-10-26T11:31:00.010-05:00

The world is going mobile... choices are:
1. To do nothing
2. Do a mobile version of your site
3. Do an app
These options were discussed at our recent communications networking group. Andy Steingas and Tara Loftus from Frontier Web Development shared their expertise.
Many decisions to be made before moving forward. Survey members to find out if an app is really wanted and needed. Check your google analytics to see how your members are accessing your info. And in the meantime continue to get more Twitter followers. http://bit.ly/uZek7l

Increase Your Passion for Work Without Becoming Obsessed - Scott Barry Kaufman - Harvard Business Review

2011-09-27T16:10:00.000-05:00

Increase Your Passion for Work Without Becoming Obsessed - Scott Barry Kaufman - Harvard Business Review

It's Official

2011-09-26T09:25:00.000-05:00

I hate the holidays. Always have, probably always will. But yesterday - September 25, I stopped by JoAnn Fabrics - walked down the "halloween lane" turned the corner into the "Christmas aisle" to the tune of White Christmas. That did it. I put down the items that I was going to purchase, found a clerk, expressed my dismay - disgust - disappointment at the Christmas music, and left the store.

It is absolutely official. I will not shop in any store that dares to play Christmas music before November (which really is too early too). I will try to forgive the holiday decorations, but it will be hard. If this nonsense by retail stores continues, I'll just have to shop online, which is probably what they want me to do anyway. Oh the tangled webs we weave! Maybe the money I will spend on shipping and postage will help the USPO.

Public Speaking Doesn't Have to Be Scary

2011-09-20T11:10:00.003-05:00

If public speaking is something that keeps you up at night, causes you to sweat and shed a tear at the sight of a microphone, you are not alone. Here are some tips from the last YP discussion on how to make sure the next time you have to speak in public you will feel prepared, confident and ready to give them your best. Whether introducing a speaker at a conference, giving a presentation to a client or board you can follow these simple solutions:

Realize that your audience, whoever it is, wants you to succeed and are rooting for you. They don't want you to fail.
Don't apologize for fumbling. Take a moment to collect yourself and move to the next point or correct your error.
Understand if you are an extrovert or introvert...this will help in how you prepare.
If the presentation is an open discussion, a moderator can help guide and lead conversation.
Handouts are a great tool for your audience to follow along.
Practice, practice, and practice some more.

Resources on Public Speaking:

sixminutes.dlugan.com - website with speaking tips and resources
Confessions of a Public Speaker by Scott Berkun - great book

Technology: AV, Media and Video

2011-08-18T16:09:00.005-05:00

Takeaways from the Meeting Management Education Council meeting on August 18, 2011:

Discussion was on ways to utilize technology to enhance meeting/conferences. Video is a dynamic way to inform and educate your members.

Using promotional videos in conjunction with a speaker during an opening session makes your session more interactive and fun for participants.
Keep your costs low by utilizing a freelancer, association member(s), or students from Mpls College of Art & Design (MCAD) versus a production company.
Imbedding video on power point presentations can create more interactive presentations. Ensure you have all files associated with the videos on the computer you are using so you don't have problems with the videos not working.
Bring your own AV equipment or outsource to a member company to minimize production problems.
Negotiate the AV costs into your contract with a venue and insure they will have someone on staff to assist in the use of their equipment.

To learn how to create your own videos, sign up for MSAE's Video for the Web in 5 Steps at the Continuing Education and Conference Center - U of M on October 28.

Intra-Office Communication Revisited: Could You Be Doing Things Better?

2011-08-17T08:57:00.004-05:00

A fun, new way to shake up internal communication is through the program Skype. Many of us have heard of Skype for video chatting, but this program has many other features including a messaging function that many could benefit from with a large or small office.

Skype allows each staff person to maintain communication at their desk without the in-person interruptions, "quick-questions", favors or awkward conversation that sometimes take place before you get what would be a 2 second response in Skype chat.

Want an answer from 2 of your colleagues? Bullet your thoughts and have them respond with the corresponding number. Everyone in agreement or conversation over? Give a simple emoticon - thumbs up and presto!

Some benefits of Skype are:

Easily send documents to any contact
Conversation history is stored up to a year
Encourages you to compose a quick, concise and to the point thought
Remove messages once sent if you didn't want to say something or made an error
Emoticon help shorten and add animation to a conversation
Group chats available for 2-100
Ability to share your working status: online, away, unavailable, do not disturb, offline

This new intra-office communication technique may take a bit to get used to it, but once you start you will not want to look back. Keep your email open to clients, customers and members. Free up your in-box and still chat with your co-workers.

Resources:

Light a member on fire

2011-08-16T12:26:00.005-05:00

Light a member on fire to take action through a creative social media campaign. Idea list generated at ASAE meeting in St. Louis. http://bit.ly/lkAWRK

http://bit.ly/oApPbu

Take a better facebook photo

2011-08-01T10:06:00.002-05:00

Dr Jeffrey Spiegel, facial plastic surgeon at Boston University School of Medicine shared these tips in Parade.com:

1. Stand at an angle to the camera. This will give you a slimmer profile and add interest to the photo. Try slightly lowering your front shoulder to elongate your neck.
2. Women: Looking up slightly will automatically raise your eyebrows, making your eyes appear larger. Men: Stick you chin out a bit to create a stronger face and eliminate a double chin.

3. Smack your lips together (though not to hard) a couple of times just before the photo is taken. This will send blood to them and make them appear redder and fuller. Similarly, pinch your cheeks to get a rosy glow.
4. To avoid closed eyes, try this trick. Ask the person snapping the photo to count to three, then blink on two. Your eyes will be at their brightest and most open.

Don't Be Hacked

2011-07-14T09:13:00.000-05:00

Tips to keep your cell phone safer: (From Today show segment)

Set up (with your provider) a pin code. Anyone who wants acces to account has to know it.
Make sure your phone is lock code protected. (You need code to use.)
Use a different and STRONG password to access email. (Password communications are often sent to your email.)
Know what you are downloading. (Not all apps are friendly apps)

Using Social Media to Attract and Retain Members

2011-06-28T16:09:00.010-05:00

Takeaways from the Membership Networking Group on June 15:

Social Media is a must to keep your members informed. You want to be where your members are!

1. What should you put on each form of media? Here are a few suggestions:

Facebook: Social, Events -- link back to your website. Keep accessible to all (not just members) so others not in your association get information on your upcoming events -- use to create buzz about your association/membership.

LinkedIn: Connect with members only. If non member wants to join, send prospect information. Professional, create chat conversations on association topics, current news events (need to monitor member connections with dues renewals).

Twitter: Learn from others, promote your association and events, recruit new members. Schedule tweets by using hootsuite.com

Blog: Represent your organization's events, post comments on current events, recap meetings, etc... ; control your PR and manage posts.

2. Which social media is better to use? You should be on all of them. Utilize social media monitoring tools to help you monitor success, listen, learn and engage your members -- like Hootsuite, TweetDeck, or Tweetizen. Set a specific time each day to monitor/respond to comments.

3. Social Media Policy: Every organization that has numerous people posting items on their social media sights should have a social media policy that all employees sign off on. If you don't currently have a policy check out socialmediagovernance.com

4. Put your social media links on all marketing materials.

5. Don't represent your company on your personal sites -- keep business discussions on the organizational site.

6. QRcode -- Use on marketing materials so members can scan and visit your website/event page. Tag under your QRcode "Visit us at (your web address) or Scan" so all can access the information.

Program Design, Development & Implementation

2011-06-28T14:34:00.002-05:00

Takeaways from the Meeting Management Education Council meeting on June 22:

When planning education, the group gets input and ideas from: committees, call for proposals, evaluations, surveys, focus groups and listserv groups.
RFP’s for speakers – suggest potential topics (and why they are important to your group), include background on the audience (challenges, etc), ask when the speaker last spoke and for how many people, have a preconference call, expect them to customize the presentation for your group. Sample Call for Presentations
Consider hosting a BarCamp for your association
• Definition of BarCamp: a) an ad-hoc gathering born from the desire for people to share and learn in an open environment. b) an intense event with discussions, demos and interaction from participants who are the main actors of the event.
• Quick notes about BarCamps – they are free, the attendees pick the topics so it’s “just in time education,” planners need to let go of the planning.
• For more information on BarCamps, visit barcamp.org or attend the MSAE BarCamp in September!

Mobile bill-pay could carry high costs

2011-06-27T16:28:00.003-05:00

From the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Info on tips and safe mobile payment practices.
http://bit.ly/lkAWRK

more social media

2011-06-21T09:46:00.001-05:00

It takes a while to stay current with everything, maybe everyone else already knew this - but you can schedule tweets via hootsuite - and it's simple. Learned this via an MSAE Membership Networking group from Eric @ Corporate Compliance. Our members are so smart!

Career Development, Professional Certifications and Advanced Education

2011-05-26T09:03:00.004-05:00

Professionals who are interested in making a commitment to their profession, career and future look to earning advanced education or potentially obtaining a credential. MSAE's Young Professionals Group hosted a discussion on four hot topics: Certified Association Executive (CAE), Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), Masters Degree/Post Education and General Career Development. Here are the top takeaways from this discussion...

CAE

ASAE has revised their exam - MSAE has not had any applicants for this new format, but are interested in hearing how the exam is now formatted.
CAE requires 100 CEU to be eligible for the exam.
You need to have 5 years experience with a degree or 3 years experience with a degree if you are an executive director.
Each applicant needs to have a certain number of hour per domain or subject area.
CAE text is administered twice a year - May and December.
Cost is relatively high - on average it will run you $500-1,000.

CMP

The CMP exam is provided through the Convention Industry Council.
You need 36 months of experience or 24 months if you have a degree in a related field to qualify for the CMP exam.
25 hours of continued education are required.
The CMP is administered twice a year - January and July.
The closest exam site to Minnesota is Chicago, IL.

Masters/Post Education

University of St. Thomas offers a great mini MBA program in non-profit management. This is intensive learning with no exam. You receive a certificate at the end of your course. There are many options on format - 3 hours at night/once a week, 5 days of full learning or a 6-8 week course. The cost for this program is around $300-500.
Institute for Executive Director Leadership offers a 10 month program designed for higher level professionals. This will cost around $2,000-3,000.
St. Kate's offers a Masters in Organizational Management that focuses on both profit and non-profit management. This is designed for professionals who have been in the field for at least 5-7 years. Cost is based on tuition rates.

Career Development

MSAE offers many educational sessions to help reach you CEU requirements.
You may also get CEU's from ASAE, webinars and other associations.

Resources

If you would like to connect with an MSAE member on the CAE contact:

Cassie Larson, CAE, Associate Director
Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association
651-633-4987
cassie@mnla.biz

Katie Jamieson, CAE, Director of Member Services
MN Society of Professional Engineers
651-457-2347
kjamieson@mnspe.org

If you would like to connect with an MSAE member on the CMP contact:

Denise Woods, CMP, Director of Communications & Events
Associated General Contractors of Minnesota
651-796-2186
dwoods@agcmn.org

Amanda Pasek, National Account Executive
Visit Saint Paul
651-265-4900
apasek@visitsaintpaul.com

Cash vs. Accrual Accounting for Associations

2011-05-18T15:57:00.003-05:00

The MSAE Financial Networking Group met on May 11th and discussed the pros/cons of cash and accrual accounting systems, as well as tips to make the process easier. Here a few of the takeaways from the meeting:

1. The definition of Cash & Accrual Accounting:

Cash Accounting: An accounting system that recognizes income when it is actually received as cash and expenses when they are actually paid rather than when they are earned or incurred. Pros/Cons: Generally easier, less time consuming, harder to know where you are throughout the year.

Accrual Accounting: An accounting system that recognizes income when it is earned and expenses when they are incurred, rather than when they are received or paid. Pros/Cons - Allows you to get a clear picture of where you are throughout the year, more time consuming than cash.

2. W-9's - Ask for W-9's from speakers before the check gets cut (if over $599), add to the speaker confirmation.

3. Dues/Renewals - If you have members who are continually paying dues late (more than 90 days), charge a processing (or rejoiners) fee to rejoin. Other ideas include: keeping the original start date (so they don't get three months free), give them a new start date (don't get to keep their original start date and longevity) or if late, they don't get included in the directory.

4. Don't record dues as AR, it depends on the situation.

Make Google Love You with Killer Web Content

2011-05-18T09:14:00.004-05:00

Everyone wants to have their website show up in searches, but the question is how do you make that happen? After a fabulous discussion with MSAE's Communications Networking Group, Tara Loftus led us through some great tips on SEO.

Here are the top takeaways and resources:

The Six C's of Killer Web Content (who cares, is it compelling, is it clear, is it complete, is it concise and is it correct) - Gerry McGovern
When in doubt - cut it out, when in doubt - spell it out
To view website source on any website, right click and select View Source Code
To find out what keywords your organization should use on your website, make a list every time someone calls with what they are asking for
Absolutely no click here's on your website - Google doesn't like them
Keyword links should match title and descriptions
I'm not technical is not an excuse any more!
Every month pick a page on your website and ask yourself "how can I make this better?"
Make sure your page descriptions are tied to the content on that page
Know the difference of writing content for your organization and writing for the reader
Use key words, titles, descriptions, headers, content and links on every webpage for optimal search results
No one reads websites, everyone scans

Suggested Website Resources

Search Engine Marketing
A List Apart Blog
Killer Web Content - Gerry McGovern
SEO for Dummies

Presentation Resources

MSAE Marketing & Sales Symposium Roundtable Take Aways 5.12.11

2011-05-17T10:42:00.001-05:00

At the recent Marketing and Sales Symposium each Roundtable identified their top 3 'take-away' ideas.

Twitter
• Don’t always be in ‘sales mode'. Be social. Share.
• Follow speakers that you have hired for an upcoming conference. They will probably follow you and tweet also. This can help promote event.
• Find out where members are, focus there.

Unconventional and Creative Marketing Ideas on a Budget
• Take risks. Stay ahead of current trends. Reward your staff for taking risks. Test – and do it your way.
• Clean up your database so you can actively target your audience.
• Mail chimp.

Creating videos and Promoting Conferences with YouTube
• Set YouTube access according to audience (Public, Private, Invite only)
• Label video clearly, use tags within YouTube
• Audio is more important than video.
• Use interns for free video help.
• 90 seconds to 2 minutes best length.

Creating full value for tradeshow attendees
• Educate your exhibitors on how to market prior to the show.
• Highlight the new trends in your industry – at the show.
• Exhibitors should research whom they want to talk with prior to the show.

Google Analytics and Search Engine Optimization
• Analyze data – and then dig deeper.
• Track hits and regular updates.
• Pay attention to spikes – be creative. Be consistent.

After the Tradeshow, Following up with Leads
• Send a letter thanking people for stopping by the booth.
• Make contact within 10 days of the show.
• When giving a prize, let the customers know in the letter who won the gifts(s)

Negotiation Tips & Distance Education for Meetings

2011-04-21T11:15:00.005-05:00

Here are some of the best ideas and money saving tools generated from the Meeting Management Education Council meeting on 4.20.

35 Money Saving Meeting Tips
Wufoo - use this free form builder for your meetings and events. Some uses include sending the form to speakers so they can upload session details (even speaker photos!), send to exhibitors to upload their logos and use to collect RFP's and speaker presentations. For more on Wufoo, visit the communications networking group blog post on Wufoo and Wufoo.com.
Webinar Programs - if you're looking at hosting webinars for your members, here are a few programs to check out: GoToWebinar (MSAE members save with the Affiniscape Affinity Program), WebEx, Adobe Connect and AVEX's GoPortal (sign up for a free 30 day trial).

Privacy

2011-03-31T14:18:00.000-05:00

Is privacy becoming a thing of the past? Maybe, maybe not. The Federal Trade Commission has just taken steps to force Google to protect the privacy of its users. Plus, the company has agreed to submit to independent audits for the next 20 years - to ensure they are following the rules. This ruling will limit the data mining of social media companies. Personally, I agree and hope that there are ongoing efforts to protect my information and my privacy.

Filling in the Gaps: Resources to Improve Your Career

2011-03-21T09:22:00.003-05:00

We all have our favorite resources we rely on time after time. This discussion was a collaboration of the best websites, books, blogs and printed materials one can use for various association needs. Here is a list of the top resources from this meeting:

Books

Words That Sell
Buy-ology: Truth and Lies About What We Buy
MSAE Library
101 Things About Associations We Must Change

Printed Materials

Local newspapers
MSAE Focus Newsletter
Industry Magazines

Blogs

Websites

Others

Paint.net (photo editor)
cutepdf.com (pdf creator)
primopdf.com (pdf creator)
you send it (send big files)

I hope you check out some of the resources the next time you need an answer. If you have any that we have forgotten, please comment and let us know!

A Tour of Google Analytics

2011-03-16T13:59:00.005-05:00

If you know how to use it - Google Analytics can save you a lot of time and money. This free tool offers users features such as: visitor trends, traffic sources, content guides, goals and reporting. Here are the top tips to think about when using Google Analytics...

It is important to look at your landing pages. See where visitors are navigating to most.
Determine what percentage of visitors arriving by mobile device pushes your association to create a mobile website.
When looking at your content by title, make sure to eliminate administrative pages so data isn't skewed.
Your top exit pages don't necessarily mean people don't like what they are seeing. Exit pages might suggest visitors are getting the information they want, then leaving.
You can include Google Analytics in your marketing plan by placing unique URLs and tracking visits.

Other resources:

Great article on measuring time with Google Analytics, click here.
Search keywords and phrases for any website as well as display search activity for those words. This will also search the competition across the internet, click here.

Here is a video tutorial to help as well...

Teachable Moments

2011-03-15T08:37:00.000-05:00

Sad and horrific images from Japan. Let's hope this is a teachable moment, across the world, around the expansion and safety of nuclear power plants.

Meeting Policies

2011-03-01T10:22:00.003-06:00

Top Takeaways from the Feb. 24 Meeting Management Networking Group meeting:

Charging Non-Members More for Events, Can't Exceed the Cost of Membership - “Non-members may be charged more than members are charged for services to take into account that nonmembers pay no dues. Nonmember charges should be reasonably related to the extent to which dues income or other resources support or subsidize the services being sought (it has never been made clear whether a nonprofit can include in its calculation the value of volunteer time and expertise in calculating fair supplemental charge for nonmember access to competitively valuable membership services.) Nonmember charges for services should not be set so high as to deliberately compel joining the organization. This, it could be argued, might violate the principle of availability of competitively valuable membership services to nonmembers.” - Jacobs, Jerald. Association Law Handbook: A Practical Guide for Associations, Societies, and Charities, 4th Edition. Washington, DC: ASAE, 2007.
If you don't already, have a weather policy
Check all locations for policies and make sure they are consistent

To see member cancellation/registration and weather policies, click here (you'll need to sign in on MSAE's website to view the policies).

TED, Trends and Non-Members

2011-02-23T11:59:00.005-06:00

Top takeaways from the Feb. 23 Senior Staff Networking Group meeting:

TED.com - Ideas Worth Spreading - Share your association's videos and best practices on Ted, it's great for you and your members!
11 Trends for 2011 - Video and social media are a must, if you aren't doing it - someone else is. Check out the other trends to watch this year (from the MSAE Speakers Showcase on 2.17.11).
Send a blank newsletter to non-members (or past members) who should be members - will show them what they're missing.

MSAE Speakers Showcase

2011-02-18T10:17:00.000-06:00

Yesterday MSAE hosted it's 6th annual speakers showcase. It was a great day. I personally had the opportunity to sit in on 13 unique and different presentations. What an efficient way to get new ideas, hear prospective presenters for future sessions, and network and learn from other colleagues who are dealing with similar issues and concerns. I was impressed with the high quality of presentations and knowledge. From ethics to leadership, change and trends. This was a day well-spent! Another MSAE member benefit.

yikes

2011-02-13T22:02:00.000-06:00

watched it. the grammys. fake hair, fake boobs, fake nails, fake butts, fake teeth, tatoos, baggy pants. I guess there's no butts to fill those pants. Idea. Let's all be real.

WIIFM

2011-02-10T15:58:00.000-06:00

WIIFM - Answer this question if you are selling memberships, marketing an event, looking for involvement, soliciting volunteers...What's In It For Me?

Health Care Reform

2011-02-03T15:00:00.003-06:00

Takeaways from the Financial Networking Group Meeting - 2/3/11

Be vigilant and stay informed
Find good resources, RJF Agencies offers free health care compliance updates
Right now, there are a lot of questions - there is much more to come!

Resources:

Marketing Promo, Vehicles and Giveaways

2011-01-24T13:57:00.002-06:00

At the last Young Professionals Discussion Circle our topic was about what associations are using for marketing promo, how are associations getting the word out about their meetings and events as well as what are some of the most memorable giveaways you have received.

Here are the top takeaways from this meeting:

Favorite Giveaways

USB credit card - fits in your wallet like a credit card, but is a USB
Coasters for your desk made of ceramic
Slide pad for your phone - great for cars and desks
Cooler used to welcome attendees or out of town guests (fill it with local goodies)
Rubber band ball
Magnets with logo, picture or coupon
Chocolate
Web Key - you can load information on it and mail to attendees, when plugged in USB port it pulls up your conference page
Brush buddy - cleans your key board

Marketing Vehicles/Promo

Good to switch up sizes of materials
Use many different mediums - snail mail, email, website, texts, etc.
Segment market to get maximum attendees
Use same brochure and alter for different audiences (i.e. membership, communications or meeting professionals)

The group was divided if 'trade show trinkets' are worth it or not, but over all its the thought that counts. Not to mention that really cool key board cleaner is a great conversation starter. Attendees have come to expect trinkets at trade shows and meetings. If you are going to go away with them, ease off slowly. Change can be hard for some.

Another idea is to stop give speakers a gift. If they are a paid speaker, you are paying them for a reason. If they are a volunteer you could give them a certificate mentioning you made a donation on their behalf, send a thank you card, offer a cup of coffee or send them some chocolates upon their return.

Helpful resources:

Link Promo & Print
Arrow Printing
Dave Cowley Incentives

In my opinion

2011-01-21T09:19:00.000-06:00

Yes, my personal opinion...Medica's attempt to highly rate doctors that provide 'cost effective' treatment is an insult to consumers and certainly to Doctors. What med school did Medica employees attend?

Logos, Graphics Standards and Style Guides - Oh My!

2011-01-19T09:17:00.003-06:00

Here are the top strategies for driving and maintaining brand integrity from the past (1/18/11) Communications Networking Group meeting:

1. Consistency is King!
2. There is no 'right' or 'wrong' when it comes to style and your brand. Choose guidelines that make sense to, document them and follow consistently.
3. Graphic standards create uniform in all areas of your association, marketing materials as well as save you time.
4. It is important to include in your graphic standards items such as logo information, colors, typography, layout and photo usage.
5. Style guides are something that should be provided to all staff, freelance writers, board members and volunteers to reinforce brand consistency.

Many, many, many more ideas were shared - these were a few worth mentioning. To see the complete outline from this past meeting, click here.

For sample PDF versions of style guides, contact MSAE at angela@msae.com.

As if we don't have enough to do

2011-01-07T14:47:00.000-06:00

Remember, if the 1099 legislation is not changed - we will have to send 1099s to all companies to whom we've paid more than $600. Start collecting tax ID numbers. And here's a tip...include your tax id number on invoices that you send out, people won't have to call you.

RFPs for Speakers and Locations, Plus Site Inspections

2010-12-27T11:13:00.002-06:00

Ideas and Tips from the Meeting Management Education Council - 8.10

Add cost of audio visual and internet into proposal
Include desired rates in RFP’s
Add clause that states you need to be notified of room changes four days in advance

Other Resources:
Site Inspection Checklist
13 Tips to RFP Bliss

Marketing

2010-12-27T10:53:00.003-06:00

Market Your Meeting - Ideas and Tips from the Meeting Management Education Council - 10.10

Customize your marketing to target members, i.e. change title in emails to entice attendees, highlight specific needs or breakout sessions for attendees, target whenever possible, etc.
Message your event by answering “why?” or "so what?" - write headlines and subheads that are benefit-focused and creative.
Use technology - video, interactive marketing, google analytics, social media and the web to promote.

Other Resources:

10 Web Marketing Trends for 2010
Make Your Message Count
Viral Marketing: Spread Your Word

Generations

2010-12-27T10:49:00.002-06:00

Tips from the Meeting Management Education Council - 12.10

1. Be flexible in your communication style. A one-size-fits-all method of interaction no longer applies.

2. Recognize that generational discussions often pigeonhole people. Keep in mind that an individual’s generational context is only one piece of their profile (i.e. personality, family background, etc. also need to be considered).

3. When dealing with your board of director or committee groups you need to find a way to make the Baby Boomers feel that they are still necessary and important while creating opportunities for the younger generations to come in and make their mark.

Collecting Bad Debt

2010-12-27T10:42:00.003-06:00

Top Three Takeaways from the Financial Networking Group Meeting - 9.21.10

Let staff know which invoices are outstanding - sounds simple but it works! Staff are much more likely to follow up on invoices when they know about them.
Think about the value of statements - do they include dues, do members pay off them, are they working?
Re-evaluate credit card fees - many times you can save lots of $$ here, do this often as rates tend to increase without your knowledge.

Cash Management & Reserves

2010-12-27T10:32:00.004-06:00

Top Three Takeaways from the Financial Networking Group Meeting - 10.3.10

Have a formal investment policy - Sample Investment Policy, Sample Investment Policy #2
Check on bank and credit card fees - where can you save?
Technology - use electronic storage, desktop imaging and other technologies to save you time - Nonprofit Operating Reserves Wiki

Affinity Programs

2010-12-21T10:06:00.002-06:00

Affinity Programs: Do They Really Work?

The Membership Networking Group discussed the pros and cons of offering Affinity Programs for your members at their meeting in November 2010. Following are a few takeaways from that meeting.

1. Ask members what they want or need. Make sure the program is of value to your members.
2. Do research on the company and it's reputation -- problems with the company become your problem. Are their materials updated so they "look" inviting?
3. Protect your members -- insure the company knows what they can and can not do in communicating and working with your members.
4. Savings for the time invested. -- Ease of use. If you have to spend too much time managing or monitoring the program is it really worth while?
5. Get the company representative involved in promoting and managing the program for your members --they want the business and are the best at explaining their programs.
6. Can the company provide you with results so you can see if the program is worthwhile?
7. Are you offering your members a better deal than they would be able to get on their own?
8. Members only benefits -- if a non member is still using a service, use that to get them to renew. "I see you like the XYZ company, to continue to use at the member rate, you can renew today!"

MSAE will be launching a new Affinity Program for our members with AAA in January 2011.

Check out the Affinity Programs offered to members of MSAE by clicking here.

New Year. New Board

2010-12-21T09:47:00.000-06:00

As we head into a new year. Here's some tips on working with your board:
Establish parameters with them; communicate frequently.
Be flexible and willing to change.
Anticipate board questions, know their hot buttons, learn their personal motivations.
Know what hill you are willing to die on.
Create an environment of trust so that real teambwork happens.
Develop your listening skills.
Invest the time and resources to train the board to look to the future.
Be consistent.

Let it snow

2010-12-20T10:31:00.000-06:00

More snow. Well at least watching the Vikings game tonight will be amusing. Another chance to show the rest of the world that yes, we Minnesotans are well, dare I say nuts?

Cyber Wars

2010-12-09T09:08:00.000-06:00

Who could have imagined the likes of this WikiLeaks fiasco? I guess it's true - we don't know what we don't know. Scary business. For what it's worth - try to make sure your firewalls, virus protections, and various security measures are up to date and as good as they can be.

Security. Security. Security

2010-12-07T14:42:00.000-06:00

UPS is going to start requiring picture IDs from anyone who plans to ship a package. Makes sense to me.

Wufoo - Free Form Builder

2010-11-24T09:46:00.004-06:00

Wufoo was MSAE's Communications Networking Group topic on November 16, 2010. Here are the top takeaways and recap:

What is it? Wufoo is a web-based application for creating online forms of all kinds. Wufoo hosts the forms, collects submitted information, and generates reports based on form data. It makes online forms fun and easy, maximizing your efficiency in collecting the information you want or need from your members.

Cost - You get 3 free forms, 3 reports and 100 monthly entries. You can upgrade to receive more with their paid plans. You may also delete the forms you are using so you continually only have 3 at one time. This limits how much you can use this free tool.

Wufoo is a great form builder tool, easy to use and allows you to have quite a bit of flexibility compared to Zoomerang or Survey Monkey.

If you are in the market for a survey or form building tool, I recommend you take a moment to check out www.wufoo.com.

Animoto - Free Video Tool

2010-11-24T09:38:00.004-06:00

Animoto was the featured discussion at MSAE's Communications Networking Group on September 14, 2010. Here are our top takeaways and recap:

What is it? Its a free site that lets you create professional looking videos and/or slideshows. You can import your pictures from online or from your computer, as well as choose music and which images to feature.

What it costs - Free for 30-second videos, $3 for full length videos and $30 for unlimited full-length videos for an entire year.

Animoto is very user friendly and easy to use. MSAE has recently purchased the $30 unlimited usage and love it! You can make a variety of videos for all things associations. Here are a few good ways to use Animoto for your organization:

Event Promotion
Pre-Event Presentation
Statistics Presentation
Thank You's
Awards Presentation
Annual Reports

I recommend you try using this software. You will be surprised what you can do with it!

Here is a sample video MSAE did for the 2010 Fall Leadership Conference, click here for video.

Ask an Executive Director, A Panel Discussion

2010-11-23T14:56:00.003-06:00

To end a great year of discussions, MSAE's Young Professionals hosted a panel discussion with three executives directors. This discussion gave audience members a chance to hear three successful executive directors stories into association work, learn what daily tasks an executive directors faces as well as see what it takes to be an executive director.

2010 Panelists:
Kathy Johnson, MSAE
Bob Fitch, MN Nursery & Landscape Association
Dara Rudick, MN Commercial Association of Real Estate

Here are the top takeaways from this meeting:

Say what you are going to do and do it
Make 1 + 1 = 3
Have systems in place, you can always fall back on them
Build personal relationships with your board members
Have a clear chain of command
Remember you are not alone, there are others out there to help
Sometimes you have to go backwards to go forward
Choose your battles
You are going to wish you knew what you know now, back then
Don’t sweat the small stuff
Make sure to have work/life balance
Never stop learning
Build relationships, network – build on these relationships when you don’t need anything, because one day when you need something they will be there for you
Don’t ask, demand or request without bringing a solution or suggestions with you
Understand constructive criticism makes you stronger

This was a great discussion with stories, examples and wonderful audience participation. MSAE looks forward to another executive director panel in 2011.

Managing Your Time

2010-11-23T14:43:00.002-06:00

The Young Professionals Group met for a discussion about Managing Your Time on October 15th. This was a hot topic and apparently we all needed a refresher on some organization tips. Here are the top takeaways from this discussion:

Workspace:
1. Clean off your desk at the end of each day. A clean desk the next day will make you feel ready for the day.
2. Never have more than three files out at a time you are working on...you can't focus on more than that anyways!
3. Understand your workspace and get the necessary tools, equipment and supplies for your day to run smoothly.

Workflow:
1. Bundle your time when working on multiple tasks. For instance, set aside an hour for one project and two hours for another. Then make sure to stick to the allotted times.
2. When working on big projects, use an outline. This will keep you on task and you can see the next steps to come.
3. Consciously don't check your email. Turn off the reminders. Don't let it take your day over!

Planning for the Future:
1. Take 30 minutes at the end of each day to plan for the next. You will feel prepared and know what to expect.
2. Save templated emails in your signatures. Then you don't have to re-type an email you send on a regular basis. Ex: welcome letter, common questions, etc.
3. Don't schedule more than two hours of your time in one day. If you schedule too much of your day, you won't leave any time for what you need to get done.

Here are two resources that help with Time Management: www.tadalist.com and www.viewpath.com.

The key is to actually start using these tips....happy organizing!

Managing Relationships: Clients, Members & Co-Workers

2010-11-23T14:23:00.003-06:00

The MSAE Young Professionals group has discovered we can learn a lot from one another. In our monthly learning circles (or discussion circles) we tackle topics relevant to our industry and help one another improve as professionals. However, we don’t want the MSAE community to miss out on the useful things we share.

The following are some relationship building strategies generated during our last meeting:

Co-workers: Sometimes changing yourself is the best solution
Members: Don't forget to add a personal touch
Clients: Under promise and over deliver

These were the top takeaways generated from the YP circle discussion on September 17, 2010.

Health Lobby's Big War Chest

2010-11-19T10:40:00.000-06:00

Reported in the Star/Trib (by Drew Armstrong-Bloomberg News 11/18/10)
Health insurers last year gave the U.S. Chamber of Commerce $86.2 million that was used to oppose the health care overhaul law, according to tax records and people familiar with the donation.

By funneling the money through the chamber, (laws don't require identifying funding sources) insurers were able to remain at the table negotiating.

Really? And we wonder why our health insurance premiums are so sky high!

To help or not to help?

2010-11-18T15:41:00.000-06:00

11/18/10 Popular TV personality Bill Nye left USC under his own power after he collapsed onstage Tuesday night in front of hundreds of audience members during a presentation at USC. I have heard it reported that not one audience member jumped to his aid. What did they do instead? Tweet.

I just have to wonder what this says about our world today?

Improving productivity

2010-11-15T09:38:00.000-06:00

Reward the steps it takes to get to a final outcome. (Not just the final outcome.)

A truism

2010-11-09T11:19:00.002-06:00

Responsibility is a big responsibility!

Social Media - Engaging Members

2010-11-02T10:57:00.001-05:00

Having trouble getting members to buy into the social media buzz? Try these tips:
Give them an emotionally compelling reason to participate.
Tell them what it is. Tell them why it's important.
Invite them. Tell them why they should come, what they should 'wear.' Make it personal. Once there - Greet them. Help them feel comfortable. Help them connect and talk to each other. Make them want to come back. Tell stories.

Think about it all as if you were inviting someone to your house. What would they need to know? What should they bring? Who else will be there? What is the reason for the invite?

Making the most of change

2010-10-28T15:47:00.000-05:00

The MSAE Board of Directors, in preparation for the planning retreat, read "Managing Transitions" by William Bridges, PhD. Since change is inevitable, it's good to take time to remember that the psychological transitions that accompany change are stressful. Organizational transitions affect people, it is the people who have to embrace a new situation that will eventually lead to the change. This book is an excellent managerial tool for navigating through these tumultuous, uncertain times.

"Our moral responsibility is not to stop the future, but to shape it...to channel our destiny in humane directions and to ease the trauma of transition" (Alvin Toffler, Futurist)

We all need to belong

2010-10-19T18:13:00.000-05:00

It's true, we have to 'gather round the campfire' - we all need to belong. That's what we did at the fall conference, gather round the campfire; literally and figuratively. And it was great! It was a chance to re-connect, form new alliances, have some fun and learn at the same time. Dick Durrance, National Geographic photographer, shared his story. He gave us 8 keys for converting Dreams into Realities
1 See what is and imagine what can be.
2 Adjust your dreams and be willing to embrace new ones.
3 Harness your gifts to productive ideas.
4 When the going gets tough it's the team that gets the job done.
5 Reach out to thers and they will reach back to you.
6 Unrelenting tenacity.
7 Clear communications.
8 Test your ideas to make sure they meet the needs of your audience.

Nice Bike

2010-10-18T10:27:00.000-05:00

Mark Scharenbroich, opening keynote at the MSAE fall conference was the best! Humorous, exciting - lots of good messages. One of them - "Leave the campsite better than you found it. Two - just draw pictures - Stop counting crayons. Three- Share instead of compare.

Fall in Minnesota. The Perfect Time of Year

2010-10-17T08:37:00.000-05:00

Social media at the board retreat. The stats are amazing. It's not a fad. It's a revolution.

Fall in Minnesota. The Perfect Time of Year

2010-10-15T18:17:00.001-05:00

Drove up a day early to Chase on the Lake in Walker, MN. I wanted to check out the bike ride trail. (Optional activity on Sunday) I did. The Paul Bunyon and Heartland trails are spectacular. Two of my board members arrived a day early too. We'll have dinner together. I like it. I know we are all busy, crazy busy, but I always like to arrive a day early. (The MSAE long range planning session starts on Saturday at noon.) Sometimes, taking the extra time, getting a chance to relax and prepare and become familiar with the location can make the difference in how a meeting will play out. The resort is unique - a great place for a retreat and a conference. Tomorrow when we embark on the journey to plan for the future of MSAE, I'll be ready!

Crisis and Communication

2010-10-11T10:02:00.002-05:00

As our largest program of the year approaches, I have been spending time working on our Emergency Operations and Communications Plan. Whenever we bring large groups of our members together for an event, we coordinate with the hotels, vendors, security staff and local convention and visitors bureaus to be sure that we have a plan in place should the worst case scenario happen. Thankfully, we've only had to implement the Emergency Operations and Communications Plan once in the past ten years, and that turned out to be a false alarm.

One of the strangest things that happens when I work on this plan is that I become "hyper-sensitive" to the different warnings and notifications about security, as well as the way in which the threat or problem is communicated. So, when I read this article about the toxic sludge in Hungary I was shocked to read this line:

The aluminum factory has said it will pay for the victims funerals.

I understand that disasters happen. Further, I understand that during these times you want to comfort those people who are left grieving or in need (especially due to your negligence). However, isn't there a better time and place to make a statement like that?

I quickly reviewed our Emergency Operations and Communications Plan, and was relieved to see that our guidelines say that only authorized people are allowed to talk with the media. Further, the authorized people are listed out so it is clear for anyone reviewing our document who can speak in an official capacity on behalf of our organization. Finally, we offer some tips:

Be prepared with the facts. You must have a clear, factual and complete understanding of the situation (as possible).
Remain calm and in control.
Be honest. If you tell the truth, you do not need a good memory.
Be sincere.
Do not release the names of any victim(s) without authorization.
Do not speculate. Do not assign blame to others. Do not estimate financial loss.
Respond to media inquires immediately.
Give the reporters the respect that you want them to give you.
Do NOT allow yourself to be hurried by reporters.
Do NOT allow the media to wander around unescorted at any time.
Never go off the record. Tell the media only what you want to see on the headline news.
Be prepared. Be truthful. Be prepared.

Now, using these guidelines may not have prevented someone from saying that the aluminum factory was going to pay for funerals...but it may have made someone think twice about what they were saying, and how it was going to be perceived...and that's as much as you can ask in a crisis.

A Simple Swipe on a Phone, and You're Paid

2010-10-01T10:00:00.000-05:00

By DAVID POGUE - New York Times
The Square device snaps into an iPhone and allows you to become a credit card authorizing entrepreneur. No setup fees, no two-year contract - you're in business. Read more.

Breathing Space

2010-09-21T10:34:00.000-05:00

These days, it seems that we're all beseiged by too much competing for our attention and Robert Heinlein's observation seems most appropriate: "In the absence of clearly-defined goals, we become strangely loyal to performing daily trivia until ultimately we become enslaved by it." More at: Managing Information and Communication Overload http://bit.ly/9m58B9

Jeff Davidson, MBA, CMC
Breathing Space ® Institute

New membership coordinator at MSAE

2010-09-13T11:04:00.000-05:00

New person started today at MSAE. It is amazing to try and teach someone everything they need to know to hit the ground running. I think we forget how much we know, how many skills we have, and how we are experts in many areas. Associations can be complicated places.

Tech Tools for Meeting Planners and Attendees

2010-08-26T13:28:00.003-05:00

Create unique and engaging experiences for meeting attendees by Jessica Levin
http://bit.ly/cXplg7

Don't laugh - I was being frugal

2010-08-23T09:50:00.000-05:00

I bought my home lap top in 1997. My home desk top in 2000. They have both been working, sort of. Just got a new lap top - took all the info from the other two, combined it, bought a new wireless router. Wow, what a difference. Fast, clean, organized, better. It took some time, cost some money - but I can be much more productive. I can use it, instead of fight with it. (Almost took a hammer to it the other day when I had to unplug from the modem for the 10th time that night.) My new I-photo even has face recognition software. I am amazed at what I can now accomplish. Do yourself a favor. When it's time to replace your systems, don't prolong the agony, bite the bullet and do it. You can't fight mother nature and you can't fight the technological advances that keep slamming into our lives. So enjoy.

Junk mail

2010-08-16T08:36:00.000-05:00

I wish I had never given my email address when I purchased something, registered for something, visited a site. In hindsight I should have an email account that I use just for junk and coupons and offers. I was out of the office for two days last week and was just checking my inbox. 80 - maybe even 85% of the messages are JUNK. JUNK. JUNK. Better late than never - I am going to set up a new account for junk and keep my real address for the important notices from members, colleagues, and friends. Pretty soon I'll have about a dozen email accounts that I will have to be checking. Yikes.

Brett Favre and Credibility

2010-08-03T15:19:00.003-05:00

It's the first Tuesday of August, and as folks in my neck of the woods (Minnesota) have learned, if Brett Favre sticks his head out of Hattiesburg, Mississippi and sees that he isn't the focus of the news, we'll get six more weeks of speculation about his career.

For the fourth time since 2006, the news outlets around the country reported with absolute certainty that Brett Favre was contemplating retirement / planning to retire / announcing his intention to retire / retiring. I guess it depended on which source you believed. The overwhelming sentiment in our office was "I'll believe it when I see it."

And that got me to thinking about credibility - and how easy it is to lose.

You can't argue with Favre's performance. He will be a first ballot Hall of Fame quarterback, and will go in as the face of the modern era Green Bay Packers. He is an iron man who played through injury and was a natural leader. And because of the way he has presented himself in relation to the future of his career, he will forever be the punchline to a joke about retiring from a job or hobby.

Credibility is one of those things that is earned. It is defined using five factors - integrity, expertise, judgment, emotional intelligence and likability. When you look at the association world, this is incredibly important. There is more information being generated today then ever before. It's accessibility means that an avalanche of information is crowding in on the space which has been traditionally owned by associations - and one of the ways we will defend our turf is through credibility.

So, how are we going to keep our credibility in the face of all of this noise? We need to be authentic and transparent - both with the members we serve and with the staff we employ. We also need to be sure that key stakeholders, volunteers and others delivering our message are consistent and genuine. And we need to be sure that we continue to provide a hall of fame performance.

Skol, Vikings!

Techno-tyranny

2010-07-26T11:58:00.000-05:00

FYI, from a New York Times article: "A friend of mine told me about an engagement party that she had attended. She said it was lovely: a delicious lunch and plenty of Champagne toasts. But all the guests had their cellphones on the luncheon tables and had text-messaged their way through the entire event. Enough already with this hyperactive behavior, this techno-tyranny and nonstop freneticism. We need to slow down and take a deep breath."
...Amen

Yours,
Jeff Davidson, MBA, CMC
Breathing Space ® Institute
3202 Ruffin Street
Raleigh NC 27607
919-932-1996

Cognitive Surplus

2010-07-09T12:46:00.006-05:00

Last year, I had the opportunity to see Clay Shirky live at the DigitalNow Conference in Florida. Shirky is the author of “Here Comes Everybody: The Power of Organizing Without Organizations”, the recently released “Cognitive Surplus: Creativity and Generosity in a Connected Age”, and a teacher of New Media at New York University. His insights into the new media were both scary and exciting for associations. We knew that things were changing.

A couple weeks ago, I was sent a video (from June of this year) about his idea of “Cognitive Surplus”, which is the shared, online work we do when we’re not doing our jobs. I was struck that there is a connection between the idea of cognitive surplus, and our ability to engage members and get them active in associations. I’m sure that there is an entire white paper that can be written on this, but given the beautiful summer weather outside and the fact that it is Friday, you’re only going to get some bullet points from me.

There is a plethora of volunteer time available. In the United States, more than 100 million hours this weekend will be spent watching the ads between television programs.

Technology has created endless options for people to get involved online. You know “that” guy in his basement being an on-line wizard or dungeon master – he’s contributing. How great would it be to get that sort of dedication to your organization?

No matter what level the participation, be it posting funny pictures in a chat room or working with a group of physicists to create a proof – it is still participation.

There are one trillion hours per year of participatory value up for grabs, and we’re in the midst of an entire generation that, when given the opportunity, are willing to produce something online and share it. It’s up to us as associations to tap into that cognitive surplus.

Here is a link to the video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qu7ZpWecIS8

Freedom

2010-06-30T12:59:00.000-05:00

We celebrate our freedoms this upcoming 4th of July weekend. "It is not our affluence, or our plumbing, or our clogged freeways that grip the imagination of others. Rather, it is the values upon which our system is built. These values imply our adherence not only to liberty and individual freedom, but also to international peace, law and order, and constructive social purpose. When we depart from these values, we do so at our peril."
J. William Fulbright

The Fight to Control the Internet

2010-06-15T08:31:00.000-05:00

A debate is raging in Washington over "Net neutrality," the idea that all websites and users should be treated the same. The outcome could have a serious impact on consumer choice - the content available on the Web and how quickly you can access it.

The FEC has announced a plan to assert more authority over the Web. Congress is getting involved. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 will be updated. Watch this debate, it will impact us all. Do you think the internet needs a 'cop on the beat' to insure openness? (from June 13 Parade)

Top Performers

2010-06-11T10:48:00.000-05:00

Top Performers
Radically engage
Invite participation
Embrace innovation
Have goals

Carr Hagerman built on these points at the MSAE EXPO. Suggested that we all look at the boundaries we put up to change - and consider how our own prejudices affect what we do.

2010-06-09T08:48:00.001-05:00

Tradeshows and annual meetings MSAEEXPO2010. The devil is in the details, thousands of them.

Lazy Hazy Crazy Days

2010-06-04T14:24:00.000-05:00

Does anyone else remember when summer time was considered a slow time for associations - an opportunity to regroup, plan, vacation, relax a bit? Seems like a LONG time ago. Summer at MSAE now means the EXPO - golf, dues, annual audit, 5500, year end. (To name a few). Staying busy constantly at work reminds me how important it is to like what you are doing, to have a passion about it. Franklin Roosevelt said, " Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort." And others have said, "If you make your job important it is quite likely to return the favor." Enjoy every day - make the most of it!

990s. file it.

2010-06-03T13:51:00.005-05:00

IRS to offer relief to 990 filers.http://http://bit.ly/91FFLr

MSAE Golf 2010

2010-05-26T09:56:00.003-05:00

Well, every year I post about how great the MSAE Golf Outing is for networking, enjoying a day out of the office, and an overall good time. This year will be no exception. We're playing The Meadows at Mystic Lake, an award winning course in Prior Lake, Minnesota.

Who knows...maybe you'll do something great in front of the camera and someone with too much time on their hands will forever immortalize you on YouTube...

Just wondering

2010-05-19T08:35:00.000-05:00

Are you a leader if you do nothing, accomplish nothing, and leave all the tough decisions for the person who will take your place?

Golf in full Swing

2010-05-17T11:51:00.002-05:00

Finally golf is in full swing in the upper Midwest. Those who weren't partaking in the fishing opener were probably spending time on the links. Be sure to check out #msaegolf2010 http://www.msae.com/golf We love our summer days in Minnesota!

Credit cards -Legal essentials

2010-05-10T09:17:00.005-05:00

If you take credit cards - it's important you read this article. All merchants MUST comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. (PCI) Find out about the critical steps that you should be taking to protect your organization and your members.
http://bit.ly/afrERq

2010-05-05T08:49:00.001-05:00

One day of PTO can help one renew, re-energize, refresh. Takes the pressure off. Try it.

The world has changed in many ways

2010-05-03T16:24:00.000-05:00

"Long ago when men cursed and beat the ground with sticks, it was called witchcraft....Today, it's called golf." (Irish saying) (And now men And women can beat the ground - and yes, it's called golf) #msaegolf2010 http://www.msae.com/golf

Lessons Learned from our First Webinar

2010-04-28T09:39:00.002-05:00

I know - most everyone who takes the time to read this blog will be experts at hosting webinars. I wasn't an expert before we hosted our first webinar, and I'm not an expert now that we've got one under our belt, but I've learned a few valuable lessons which I've tried to boil down into 10 . Here they are:

1. Content is King

I know that we hear this about everything dealing with new technology, but by providing usable, industry relevant content we had great attendance and "buzz" about the event. We matched an academic who wrote a research article on a specific subject with three industry experts who explained and contested the findings.

2. Speakers Matter

It takes a unique speaker to interact with an audience and other participants he/she can't see. We picked a few speakers that were veterans at this process, and they helped the person with the least experience.

3. Moderators Matter

Having a strong moderator who was able to keep the dialogue moving along while gently keeping any one speaker from taking over the event was key. In our case, having a moderator who was in contact with the speakers leading up to the webinar was a benefit to the entire program.

4. Pick a Good Technology Vendor

Having solid technology reduces stress and worry. We used GoToMeeting.Com's webinar service (cleverly named "GoToWebinar"). When I was looking, I specifically wanted ease of use, automation of registration and reminders, ability to collect attendee information, ability to customize our promotional pages, and the ability to capture the event for rebroadcast. I'm sure there are numerous other quality vendors out there that provide the same things.

5. Take Time to Practice

Like anything else, being good at something requires practice. In our case, staff practiced with the presentation technology, the speakers reviewed all of the slides and who would cover what, and the moderator walked the speakers through talking points - all days before the program. When we logged on for the presentation, everyone was ready.

6. Plan for the Unexpected

We didn't have anything unexpected happen, but get some redundancy in place in case it does. We had two administrators logged into the meeting, each with a set of slides they could quickly access if the main went down. We also had two ways to connect to the internet ready as well as battery backups on the computers. Some things you can't plan for, but having some common sense plans in place will raise your comfort level.

7. Think of the Attendee

Put yourself in the attendee's chair. Do you want to look at the same slide for 10 minutes while someone is talking? Probably not. Vary things...we added pictures and bio slides for speakers when we knew there would be more talking so the attendees would have something to look at and (gasp) read if they were not really interested in the point. Make sure that your speakers use a phone that is clearly audible (traditionally this would NOT be a cell phone, and would not be a local line on speakerphone mode). Be sure to have some form of interaction. Our numbers did not allow for attendees to ask questions over the phone, but we did encourage attendees to type in questions and send them to us (using either the meeting software or standard e-mail). The more you can get an attendee engaged, the more they will come away feeling they received value in attending.

8. Start and End On Time

I don't know about you, but I like people and organizations that are timely. Your attendee's time is valuable, and they have given you some of it during their workday. Use it wisely.

9. Capture the Registrant Information

We had made assumptions about our audience, and who they would be, and were fairly surprised to see the wide range of attendees that the program attracted. Given the nature of our topic (a very technical study of insurance class action resolution) we attracted some people and companies that were not on our radar - but they are now. We followed up with a survey and links to the material presented. We also followed up with all non-members and presented them the benefits of being members of our organization.

10. Capture the Webinar

If your goal is to build the knowledge base of your membership and have the ability to offer various educational information on-demand, capturing your webinar for re-broadcast is a must. Be sure that you understand how your vendor captures your webinar, and what your abilities to edit it will be.

Well, that's some of the big stuff I've learned and I've only hosted one of these things. I imagine there are many ideas that I've missed, so please feel free to add any suggestions in the comments section.

If anyone is interested, here is the technical information about our first webinar:

Name: "D&O Insurance and the Outcome of Timing of Securities Class Action Resolution: What the New Data Shows"
Price: Free
Number of Speakers: 5
Running Time: One Hour
Number Registered: 671
Number Attended Live: 394
Non-Members: 176

I can't wait to do our next one!

Change at the Speed of Lightning

2010-04-23T10:01:00.006-05:00

Think about how fast things change. YouTubes first video uploaded 5 years ago today(from Mashable) Just have to wonder what the world will look like in another 5 years? Are you keeping up? http://bit.ly/c6dsrI I used some html code to post this. Never, never would I have ever imagined I would know some kind of computer code. What makes me think I could possibly imagine the world in 5 years. Long range planning is getting shorter and shorter.

World record

2010-04-20T13:53:00.001-05:00

Going for the world record - in changing the association name. We filed with the state in February 2000 - changed from Minnesota to Midwest. Changed the mail, changed the bank, checks, stationary, IRS, paychex. Thought we had it all done. Have found out that one department of the IRS doesn't sync with the part of the IRS that handles the pensions. And that it takes years for discrepancies to come to light. So it took some doing (and a taxpayer advocate) to get it squared away. I got an official response, and once again thought all was well. Wrong. Just realized that the St of MN has the same issue about not syncing with other departments. Even though, we register every year - Unemployment insurance still had us listed as Minnesota. At least that was a quick on line change. I think we're done now . It only took 9 years. Advice: Make a list of everything, everything that must be changed if you are changing your name. Definitely not one stop shopping. And save every piece of documentation relating to the change. Chances are you will need it.

Forget Cause & Effect

2010-04-14T10:12:00.002-05:00

Association leaders are going to have to be more alert about
more influencers than before (Linda Cherno) - http://bit.ly/a5MoSh

2010-04-09T09:57:00.001-05:00

Spring fever. Feeling it. Loving it. Living it. Anyone else?

Andrew Zolli Made Me Think

2010-04-08T20:14:00.003-05:00

What a great first day of DigitalNow. The educational sessions were exactly as I had hoped - thought provoking and interesting.

Much of what is being discussed is how you can measure return on investment (ROI) for different social media strategies. When you couple social media with your other engagement strategies, how do you know when you're doing the correct thing and creating value? It seems to be the silver bullet of social media - and I'm still waiting to see a definitive system for ranking. Aptify and a couple other groups have some basic solutions, and they were impressive when I saw them in action.

In my opinion, the best speaker today was Andrew Zolli (pictured). He is the Curator and Executive Director of Pop!Tech and a Fellow with the National Geographic Society. He spoke to the group about looking at the future, and how it isn't always the fast, shiny things that change the future, but instead they are the slow moving things that everyone knows are there, but don't acknowledge. To drive this point home, he presented statistics showing that the odds of having your life changed by a terrorist attack are close to winning the lottery. The odds of having your life changed by global climate change - one in six. However, what do you hear more about in the news?*

*Authors Note - I'm just using the examples, so please don't flame me about global climate change.

So, what do you think the largest transformation this country is going to see in the next 20 years? It isn't flashy, and it isn't reported frequently in the news - it's demographics.

As the Boomer generation ages, they are redefining consumption, work, and work life balance.

Boomers are not all retiring (for a variety of reasons) so there is now a glass ceiling of older managers who are not retiring, keeping their kids from ascending to management positions.

Those Boomers who are retiring are leaving a gap in the amount needed to fund social services and education. So, look for an increase in taxes for those people who are working (Gen X'ers and Millennials) and an increase in legal immigration to get people to help pay taxes.

More people over the age of 80 are leaving Florida than ever before...because they are running out of money. One of the fastest growing demographics in American society is married with your parents living with you.

Here's a happy statistic - if you are a woman, and you were born in 1970 or later, odds are you'll take care of your mother (or mother-in-law) for longer that they took care of you when you were a child.

I don't have a happy quip or wrap up to make this information any better. However, it is a snapshot of where we are headed. Is your association ready to deal with both senior members and kids right out of school? Are you going to be able to provide and update the technology necessary to cater to one of the most diverse work forces in years?

I can't wait to see what we talk about tomorrow.

I'm Here...It's Sunny...Teach Me...

2010-04-07T15:50:00.002-05:00

I'm here in Florida for the DigitalNow Program. It officially starts tomorrow, and I've reviewed the program - the lineup looks excellent.

For anyone who is on Twitter, you can follow the Conference at #diginow. If you are on Twitter and want to see my ravings (and rantings) about things that are at best related to the DigitalNow Conference, you can follow me @plusdofo.

Tomorrow's keynote is going to be Andrew Zolli, Curator and Executive Director of Pop!Tech and Fellow with the National Geographic Society. His topic? The Road Ahead: New Paths to Thriving in Complex Times. Nothing like a quick look at technology today and in the future to give you a quick slap in the face.

DigitalNow is Next Week

2010-04-01T14:56:00.004-05:00

I'm very excited...next week is DigitalNow, a program which brings together CEO's and volunteer leaders from some of the most influential professional, non-profit, and trade associations in America. It is hosted by Fusion Productions and the Disney Institute.

I'm headed to Orlando to take the whole thing in (I've actually been going for quite a few years now) and will be reporting back on anything new, fun or just plain strange that I pick up.

I can't wait.

Even Microsoft employees can’t resist iPhone

2010-03-23T09:16:00.001-05:00

Even Microsoft employees can’t resist iPhone

MSAE Golf Classic 2009

2010-03-19T10:22:00.001-05:00

Here's video from last year's golf classic. Are you in it?

MSAE Golf Classic 2009

We are celebrating our 25th anniversary year of fun on the links. Join us on July 29th. www.msae.com for more info.

doodle

2010-03-15T11:36:00.001-05:00

Easy way to get group input on dates and or times for meetings.Check it out.
www.doodle.com. Just set up a poll. It's free. I am using it. It works. It eliminates all of the calls, emails, confusion.

My rant for the day - indulge me

2010-03-03T11:40:00.000-06:00

Everyday when I get home there is a message on my machine - a computer generated message from my health insurance company - they want to be my health advisor and coach. PLEASE! I thought that was what my Doctors were doing? It must be in conjunction with the very expensive, very unnecessary brochure that they recently mailed to my home. Is this where my very expensive health insurance premiums are being allocated? Just one more reason to lose my land line and to support health care reform. Of course this particular issue will probably not be addressed. But I can hope.

Non-activity fee?

2010-03-01T14:13:00.001-06:00

Last week, John Stewart talked about the new banking/creditcard/transparency/fee/new regulation fiasco. Of course he told several funny stories about how people are enticed into using credit cards and then with interest fees, and finances charges, taking 11 years to pay off a $3,000 purchase, when just making minimum payments. There were stories about unannounced changes to payment due dates, which resulted in - what do you know, late fees. What's next he wondered, "having to pay a fee for not using the card?" Sounds funny, but recently I was charged a $40 non-activity fee for a small savings account that had been held at a bank for some 15 years. Want to know what I did with my account? I imagine you can guess. Morale of the story - consumer beware!