3 Factors That Can Boost Social Cohesion Among Your Membership

In order for members to cooperate, they need to have the tools to communicate
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Social cohesion refers to the bonds that bring society together. In group settings, it’s the willingness of members to cooperate with one other and be motivated to stay involved. Prior to joining a group, members usually differ from each other in most aspects, including past experience, work ethic, attitude, and cultural background. To ensure social cohesion and, in turn, increase productivity for a group, it’s essential for members to find a common ground. The following are factors to consider when trying boost cohesion among your membership.

1. Group openness to new members is key

​Membership is constantly changing, as some individuals will leave the group and others will join. What shouldn’t change is your openness and atmosphere. When a new member first joins up, the group should be welcoming. It’s incredibly intimidating for someone to enter an organization in which everyone else knows one another. Discouraging cliques and actively meeting and learning about new members will increase morale across the entire group. Openness can be made easier with tools such as group text messaging; having the opportunity to send out an instant message to all of your members and share responses makes it easier to acclimate new individuals and quickly make them feel like part of the gang. 

2.  Volunteering as a shared experience

​Volunteering can play an integral role in creating new relationships and bringing people together whose paths may have never otherwise crossed, creating a sense of trust and understanding. The life experience, camaraderie, and knowledge gained through volunteering opportunities will encourage social cohesion through shared experiences. For non-profits, getting donors and volunteers engaged in the process and the knowledge that their contributions are making a difference can help make all parties feel included. Engagement can be accomplished through postings on a group donation page as well as by using social media.

3. Member Database

Are you looking for a member with specific marketing experience? Maybe you want to reach out to someone you met at the last meeting but can’t remember their number. In times like these, it’s great to have an internal portal or customized directory to be able to locate, learn about, and connect with your members. This kind of access allows all individuals to get immersed in learning about and reaching out to fellow members. It will increase the productivity and effectiveness of the group while providing even more opportunities to build new relationships.
When you’re looking to boost social cohesion in your membership, look no further than memberplanet. Our work with all kinds of groups, ranging from nonprofits and Greek and Alumni associations to Homeowners Associations, has allowed us to fine tune our services to meet all of your needs – all in one spot. Find out what people are saying about how memberplanet has improved their productivity and cooperation. And learn how we can help you too!