The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community…
Make time for microlearning. If members are burnt out on virtual everything, how do you convince them to make time for online education? WBT Systems shares ideas for microlearning programs and samples of marketing messages that will persuade members to schedule time for professional development.
Chapter benchmarking. Billhighway talked with Peter Houstle of Mariner Management and Christi Beatty of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) who are working together on AGC’s chapter benchmarking project. Christi shared lessons learned so far, including five prerequisites for a chapter benchmarking project.
Event budgets. Because of new safety-related expenses for in-person events, your old event budget templates are of no use to you now. But, fear not, Event Farm crunched the numbers and came up with guidelines on how much your 2021 event budget might increase for each line item.
Data governance. Rene Shonerd at Cimatri shares a cheat sheet for making data work for your association. She starts with four questions about data quality issues and then makes recommendations based on your responses.
Loyalty strategies. Ana Andjelic says people develop brand affinity only when it gives them a sense of community. Hmm, the same thing happens in associations. She explains how for-profits are using membership strategies to develop customer loyalty.
Staying away from the office. I feel bad for anyone who prefers to work remotely but is being forced to return to the office. Andrew Seaman suggests what you can do if you want to continue working from home.
Quick hits
- Level up with these 15 association marketing resources—books, podcasts and blogs. (Beth Arritt, Higher Logic)
- What is a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO)? (Calvin Ebun-Amu, MakeUseOf)
- Voyeurism fix: 27 top marketers share pictures of their desks along with tips for cameras, mics, lights and hamsters. (Andy Crestodina, Orbit Media Studios)
Good eats
Skip down to the list of free webinars if you prefer takeout. If you’re a home cook, check out the irregularly published In The Kitchen posts on my Grabbing the Gusto blog.
- I never get tired of greens but I do get bored with how I always cook them, so I was happy to rediscover this recipe for Indian-spiced chickpeas and greens. I added half a serrano, half a jalapeño, ginger and dried apricots, and omitted the tomato paste, lemon juice and cilantro. To complement them, I baked swordfish steaks topped with garam masala and butter.
- My Italian chicken bake is another one of those sauté-a-bunch-of-ingredients-and-throw-them-in-a-baking-dish recipes. This one includes chunks of boneless chicken thighs, bacon, onion, mushrooms, broccoli stems, red bell pepper, poblano, jalapeño, garlic, flour, chicken broth, canned tomatoes, cannellini beans, whole wheat penne and mozzarella.
- Not that we needed more vegetables with that dish, but I had them in the frig so, on the side, we enjoyed a sauté of carrots, broccoli stems, zucchini and garlic with a sprinkling of fresh basil.
- And not that we needed bread, but I had discard to use so I made sourdough focaccia. I only gave it a short rise (a few hours) in the frig. Some day, I’ll plan ahead and start it on Saturday instead of early Sunday afternoon so it can get the recommended overnight rise.
Here are the educational events scheduled for next week. If you have a free webinar or event coming up, please send me the link before Wednesday evening the week before it’s scheduled. I’ll be happy to feature it as long as it’s not too product centric.
Fri 6/11 at 12 p.m.* – EventTech Chat
A weekly conversation about meeting and event technology, including software, hardware, and audiovisual for in-person and online events. More info/register.
Host: Brandt Krueger, founder Event Technology Consulting
*All times are Eastern Daylight Time unless otherwise noted.
Fri 6/11 at 12:30 p.m. – Navigating the Legal Side for the Return of Live Events
What should planners be aware of when returning to live events? Should planners incorporate any new steps or change anything in their current contracting processes? Are there any new things to communicate in your contract? How to best approach contract commitments like force majeure, attrition, and hybrid event needs with your hotel partner? More info/register.
Host: Hopskip
Presenters:
- Barbara Dunn, Partner at Barnes & Thornburg LLP, representing groups
- Lisa Sommer Devlin, Devlin Law Firm, P.C. representing hotels
Fri 6/11 at 4 p.m. – Successful Assertion
Have you ever failed to stand up for yourself in a meeting and beat yourself up about it later? Have you ever regretted something you said to a coworker in the heat of the moment because your tone was harsher than you intended? Such failures to communicate effectively in the workplace can hinder a career. Learn about the qualities of successful assertiveness that can help us become better, more controlled and more confident communicators. More info/register. (Must join Fridays@4 for free first.)
Host: Fridays@4
Presenter: Lisa Johnson, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, Owner, HR Know-How LLC
Mon 6/14 at 1 p.m. – Visit Brussels: The Future of Meetings & Events (Chatting with Agnes & Cecilia)
This series of 15- to 20-minute videos cover hot topics and issues related to 501c organization management. New episodes are posted by 1 p.m. every Monday. Check out Cecilia’s Nonprofit Executive Spotlight series too.
Guest: Patrick Bontinck
Hosts:
- Cecilia Sepp, CAE, CNAP, principal and founder, Rogue Tulips LLC
- Agnes Amos-Coleman, MBA, CMP, education, conference, event, certification consultant, Amos-Coleman
Tue 6/15 at 11 a.m. – Intersectionality: Considering Identity When Working Towards a More Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Future
As individuals, we are never just one identity, and the concept of intersectionality highlights how multiple, overlapping identities—for example, race, class, gender, and sexuality—contribute to the ways in which marginalized groups of people experience discrimination. In this webinar, we’ll ask how this layering of identities impacts our experience of and contribution to our working environment. Explore what intersectionality means, how it can shape our professional experience, and what we can do to better support ourselves and our colleagues. More info/register.
Host: Coalition for Diversity and Inclusion in Scholarly Communications
Tue 6/15 at 11 a.m. – 7 Reasons Your Business Needs Data Recovery and Backup
Many of the current security methods, tools and techniques used by businesses to secure their environment and protect their brand have been effective so far, but attacks are now coming from all directions. Hackers, hacktivists, cyber criminals, nation states and insiders (like employees) are all pounding security protocols to find a weak spot to get in. Knowing that data streams in from various entry points, organizations that still differentiate between internal and perimeter security should urgently reconsider their security approach—specifically the role of digital assets (i.e., domains, domain name system (DNS) and digital certificates)—in enabling the day-to-day successful operation of their business. 1.5 CAE credits. More info/register.
Host: U.S. Transactions Corp.
Presenter: Greg Smith, Senior Information Technology Consultant
Tue 6/15 at 12 p.m. – Association Management Companies (AMCs) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Part 2
Hear the journey of two AMCs as they implement Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and (Accessibility) initiatives in their companies and for their association clients. Find out about their approach to DEI(A) with their association clients, effective internal and external practices, and success metrics. More info/register.
Host: ASAE AMC Professionals Advisory Council
Presenters:
- Beth Quick-Andrews, CAE (facilitator), President, Q&A-An Association Management Company, Inc.
- Derrick M. Johnson II, CMP DES, Chief Diversity Officer & Director of Event Strategy, Talley Management Group Inc
- Dionne S. Wilson, CAE, Executive Director, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Association Management Center
Tue 6/15 at 12:30 p.m. – Meetings of Membership Minds
These impromptu, casual discussions about membership concepts, issues, and challenges are conducted live online and open to membership professionals to comment and offer insights. More info/register.
Hosts: Dan Ratner, The Business of Membership, and Scott Oser, Scott Oser Associates
Tue 6/15 at 2:45 p.m. – Engaged Members Stay Members: Stop Chasing and Start Investing
Is your association thinking strategically about communication with its stakeholders? Do you need support with membership marketing? Learn about building your association’s relationship with visitors, members, volunteers, donors, communities and students; member engagement; membership marketing implementation; and connecting your association’s brand with your audience. More info/register.
Host: Grype
Presenter: Beth Brodovsky, strategic membership communications expert and president of Iris Creative Group
Wed 6/16 at 11 a.m. – Advanced Remote Worker Environment, Post Covid
Learn how to identify best technology practices, platforms for UCAAS, and the hybrid-work model for remote/on-site employees, and discuss success stories of UCAAS implementation within the B2B and not-for-profit verticals. Hear about the benefits of Zoom vs. Teams environment and which carriers offer a true direct routing solution and a true native Teams environment. 1.5 CAE credits. More info/register.
Host: U.S. Transactions Corp.
Presenters:
- Ali Niroo, CNSG Founding Member CNSG, An AppSmart Company
- Dave Hopper, Director of Engineering CNSG, An AppSmart Company
- Adam Kuhn, Director of IT for Futures Industry Association
Wed 6/16 at 12 p.m. – The Good, the Bad, the Ugly: Everything You Need to Know About APIs
While an API simplifies programming, it’s a complicated software component that can connect multiple systems together. It’s complexity is rooted in defining the kinds of calls made, how they should be requested, data formats to use, as well as programming convention to follow. Since so much of the API itself is defined and self contained, how do you actually evaluate its quality or level of sophistication and determine if it’s the right fit for your technical plan? Join us as we discuss qualities and features to look for and programming “gotchas” to consider so you don’t end up with a lemon. More info/register.
Host: HighRoad Solutions
Presenters:
- Chris Park, Development Manager, HighRoad Solutions
- Adam Higgins, Director of Technology, HighRoad Solutions
Wed 6/16 at 1 p.m. – #ExpoChat on Twitter
ExpoChat is a Twitter-based conversation on topics related to the trade show industry. More info.
Thu 6/17 at 8 a.m. – Global Association Outlook for 2021 Executive Management Dialogue
One year has passed since the world changed the way we operate in the global environment. Ongoing restrictions on international travel challenged organizations to evaluate their global operations and explore innovative ways of engaging with members and volunteer leaders around the world. Hear how association leaders are adapting their global strategies including: how they’re addressing current uncertainty and the evolving global situation in 2021, what they’re anticipating and planning for the remainder of the year, and what additional challenges or opportunities the move toward regional reopening brings to them. 1.5 CAE credits. More info/register.
Host: ASAE
Presenters:
- Steven Basart, Vice-President at Kellen
- Senthil Gopinath
- Arlene A. Pietranton, Ph.D., CAE, chief executive officer of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Gregory J. Fine, FASAE, CAE, EVP/CEO, CCIM Institute
Thu 6/17 at 11 a.m. – Be the Change: How and Why Associations are Changing Membership and Revenue Models
Learn from association executives who are leading a change initiative and glean valuable tips on how to launch a change initiative in your own organization. More info/register.
Host: Sarah Sladek & Company, Save The Associations
Presenters:
- Steve Fox, Vice President of Membership and Constituent Relations, American Nurses Association
- Carol Cohen, CAE, Director, Membership Development, American Nurses Association
- Molly Soat, Vice President, Professional Development, American Marketing Association
- Sharon Kneebone, Executive Director, National Society for Histotechnology
- Mary Lue Peck, President and CEO, National Speakers Association
- Julian Scadden, President and CEO, Nexstar Network
Thu 6/17 at 11 a.m. – Future Roles and Skills: Talent, Training and Succession Planning for Tomorrow’s Events
With two worlds colliding, the physical and the digital, now is the time to take a strategic look at the new functions and roles that are emerging to tackle this important shift in the events industry. We have put together a panel of experts to discuss the whole talent scenario, the impact on your teams and organizations, the new roles and expectations in the freelance market, where agencies fit in and above all, what we need to do to plan for the future. More info/register.
Host: Virtual Events Institute
Presenters:
- Catherine Dogra, Head of Digital Marketing, Informa Connect
- Mike Frost, Co-Founder & Global Recruitment Director, Expocast
- Tracy Judge, Founder & CEO, Soundings
- Matthew Pycock, Director, Global Talent Acquisition, Intrado
- Janice Rogers, Corporate Vice President, Human Resources, Diversified Communications
Thu 6/17 at 11:30 a.m. – Why Virtual Conferences Have Sticking Power
Between upskilling ourselves and our teams, introducing attendees to a new way of conferencing, and pushing the limits of event technology, this year has forced us all to rewrite the rulebook on academic and association conferences. So, what will we do with all that learning and growth when physical events are possible again? Our panel will discuss some of the reasons to choose virtual for your conference long after large gatherings are the norm again. From sustainability and travel considerations to content capture and accessibility, there’s so much benefit that online events can bring. More info/register.
Host: Ex Ordo
Thu 6/17 at 12 p.m. – Gaining Sponsorship Commitments
Your association shifted from in-person to online events and struggled to secure sponsorship revenue. Now your organization is trying to figure out how to increase income. The ongoing uncertainty of in-person, online, or hybrid events does not make it easy. Sponsors go through three specific stages prior to making a commitment. During this session, we will dive into the three stages, make sure that you are not short-circuiting a critical stage, and help you increase your sponsorship revenue. More info/register.
Hosts: Lewis Flax and Scott Oser
Thu 6/17 at 12 p.m. – Association Executive Panel Discussion on the Economic Impact & Challenges of the Pandemic
Learn how three association executives worked with leadership to make decisions regarding reserves, dues, conferences and forecasting. Hear a discussion about establishing and using reserves, essential elements for a well-constructed Investment Policy Statement, roles and responsibilities of the interested parties in managing the reserves, and the current market and outlook for economic normalization. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: ASAE
Thu 6/17 at 12 p.m. – Ready to Recruit & Retain Diverse Talent?
Want to increase the diversity of your talent pipeline but aren’t sure where to start? Have diverse entry-level talent but no clear path of promotion? Have diverse talent but are seeing them leave your organization at disproportionate rates? Learn how to successfully develop a robust talent pipeline, ensure you are seeking culture adds rather than culture fits, and create a fully inclusive culture where all employees from all backgrounds want to work for many years to come. More info/register.
Host: The Diversity Movement
Presenters:
- Kim Drumgo, Chief Diversity Officer, Anthem
- Sherri Thomas, SPHR, Chief Administrative Officer, Truliant Federal Credit Union
- Gerald Walden Jr., ESQ., MBA, VP, Deputy General Counsel & Head of Diversity, The Fresh Market
- Shelley Willingham, VP, Business Strategy, The Diversity Movement
Thu 6/17 at 2 p.m. – Let’s Talk About Member Data: Turning Insight Into Action
You have all the data at your fingertips. Now what? It’s time to take action based on trends you’ve seen over time and view the full picture. Learn how to develop the “voice of the member,” tips for validating data and ways to activate members. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: Higher Logic
Presenters:
- Joshua Slyman, Sr. Consultant, Strategic Services, Higher Logic
- Jeff Horne, CEO and Co-Founder, Wicket
- Vasan Selliah, Member Insight and Engagement Manager, CSAE
- Nicole Covello, Data Analyst, Wicket
- Beth Arritt, Product Marketing Manager, Higher Logic
Thu 6/17 at 2 p.m. – Which Technology Will Benefit Your Events Most Right Now?
Meetings in the near future are going to look different: We’ll likely be addressing both in-person and remote audiences, and we’ll need to keep attendees engaged wherever they are. How can technology facilitate the process? Hear from experts who can address the latest tech tools that can optimize communication and engagement—and be flexible enough to account for the contingencies and last-minute changes we must prepare for. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.
Host: Northstar Meetings Group
Presenters:
- Dahlia El Gazzar, Tech Evangelist and Principal of DAHLIA+ Agency
- Julie Ho, CMM, Manager, Live Learning & Event Operations of Project Management Institute
- Michael J. Shapiro, Editor, News & Technology, Northstar Meetings Group
Thu 6/17 at 3 p.m. – Keeping Your Members Engaged from Onboarding through Renewal
It costs ten times as much to get a new member to join then it does to hold on to the members you have. Let’s make sure that your members feel seen, taken care of and satisfied with their membership experience. Learn about making the right impression during the onboarding process, capturing the initial enthusiasm of a new member, building relationships over transactions, winning back members who do not want to renew, and capitalizing on member churn to gather info for improvement. More info/register.
Host: Grype Digital
Thu 6/17 at 8 p.m. – Be the Change: How and Why Associations are Changing Membership and Revenue Models
Learn from association executives who are leading a change initiative and glean valuable tips on how to launch a change initiative in your own organization. More info/register.
Host: Sarah Sladek & Company, Save The Associations
Presenters:
- Steve Fox, Vice President of Membership and Constituent Relations, American Nurses Association
- Carol Cohen, CAE, Director, Membership Development, American Nurses Association
- Molly Soat, Vice President, Professional Development, American Marketing Association
- Sharon Kneebone, Executive Director, National Society for Histotechnology
- Mary Lue Peck, President and CEO, National Speakers Association
- Julian Scadden, President and CEO, Nexstar Network
Fri 6/18 at 12:30 p.m. – Speakeasy Virtual Networking
Hear a conversation about how Joanna and Liz see the future of virtual networking and how various formats work for different audiences. More info/register.
Host: TechsyTalk
Presenters: Matrix Group CEO Joanna Pineda and Liz King Caruso of Liz King Events & TechsyTalk
Fri 6/18 at 4 p.m. – Open Networking, Fridays@4-style
This session’s featured topic will be “Landing Your Dream Job.” Come join us to make new connections, reconnect with old ones and engage in interesting discussions that will help you and your peers on the road to the next job. More info/register. (Must join Fridays@4 for free first.)
Host: Fridays@4
Facilitator: Anuja Miner, Project Management | Association Executive | Membership Executive | Account Director | Fridays@4 Member
Tue 6/22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Community Platform Demo Day
Join us for the just-in-time virtual Community Platform demo day featuring presentations from a limited number of industry partners that offer community platforms. Community experts will be showcasing platforms and sharing their knowledge with the association market. More info/register.
Host: ASAE
Tue 6/22 at 1 p.m. – How to Demonstrate the Value of Components to Your Association Through Data, ROI & Strategic Vision
As our capacity for in-person engagement starts to open back up, the question is how can we better mobilize our chapters to serve members and advance the mission of our association while creating a win/win for everyone? The answer is in real-time chapter data. Learn how other associations are defining and measuring success of their components as it pertains to delivering member value and on the mission of the association. Explore the possibilities of tracking component data and measuring chapters to prove ROI and drive the future vision for component-based associations. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: Billhighway
Presenters:
- Mark Prevost, Billhighway
- Fred Ulreich, Founder and Managing Director of The Eastwind Group & Former CEO of NARI
Wed 6/23 at 12 p.m. – Creating Innovative New Classes, Certifications & Association Products That Wow Members — and Your Board
How can your organization improve or create new, innovative and profitable offerings that benefit both your members and your organization? Whether it’s a new course, a new certification or any other event, it can be hard to pinpoint what will make them super engaged. Learn about some quick product-development sprint techniques, then work with your association colleagues to invent—or re-invent—your very own new offerings during our hands-on session. More info/register.
Host: Lee Gimpel, founder, Better Meetings
Wed 6/23 at 1 p.m. – The Shift to Remote Work: Taking the Long View
Hear a lively discussion about remote work and its impact on associations long-term with a focus on the following three questions: What are the four primary forces of turbulence already shaping this decade? How will these forces of turbulence affect the context in which remote work takes place? Why do association decision-makers need to take the long view on the shift to remote work, and how can they do it? 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: Achurch Consulting
Presenters:
- Jeff De Cagna FRSA FASAE, executive advisor for Foresight First LLC
- Rebecca Achurch PgMP, PMP, CSM, CAE, CEO, Achurch Consulting
Association Brain Food Weekly is published Friday mornings. If your organization offers free professional development for the association community, please send me the link via email or Twitter before Wednesday evening.
Photo: coming up the slickrock on our way to Big Springs Canyon in Canyonlands NP (Needles District)
Association Brain Food 