Member Management Myth-busting

There are lot of common misconceptions when it comes to best practices of member management. We respect that leaders have their own unique way of doing things, but sometimes the most used practices are not the best. Times change and the tools that were once adequate become outdated. (Remember when the internet was dial up?!) The same can be said about best practices to lead an organization. Member management software is a groundbreaking tool that can change the way you handle administrative tasks. It’s time to shed some light on common myths. By the end of this post we bet all of your views on management software will be busted!

Myth:  Dues collection is more secure offline.

There is a widespread and valid concern about the security of payment processors when it comes to sharing credit card information online. Don’t worry we’re right there with you. However, collecting dues offline also comes with some risks. Checks can get lost in the mail. Cash can be lost or miscounted. And there is no way to track or record payments other than ledger. There is greater risk for mistakes. This can cause a major issue for groups who will harbor sole liability if something were to go wrong.
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Reality: Collecting dues payments online increases the security of the transaction, and allows for accurate record keeping and transparency that all admins have access to. Yes, payments processing comes with a fee – but offering the option of online payment methods is also proven to increase funds. It’s a benefit that greatly outweighs the cost of fees. 

Myth: It is easier to send a mass text OR email, and impossible to do both AT THE SAME TIME.

Using your email account and plugging in the names of from a spreadsheet to your group members can take hours. Then once you’re done, you have to text the group separately (in case they don’t check their email). Plus, I think we can all agree that group chats and text become very cumbersome very fast. Check your phone on your lunch break and suddenly you have 75 responses to scroll through, and a drained battery. The information at the top of the thread can get lost in the hullabaloo.
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Reality: You can send both email and text at once. Even better, each person will get an individualized text that won’t inconvenience them with no chance of creating a massive reply thread. Instant and fast communication for you, and no hassle for your group members. 

Myth: During leader transition, the organization takes a couple steps backward.

Training a new group leader can be a tedious task. The transitional period, which can last a couple months, can also cause groups to take either a few steps backwards, or remain at a standstill while the new leader adjusts.
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Reality: The software allows you to cut down on time when transitioning from one leader to the next. You’re not starting over from scratch. You’re building upon the great work already accomplished. 

Myth: Planning events using Facebook is the most effective way to reach your group.

Hosting an event on Facebook, while helpful in certain aspects, leaves a lot of work to be done for an admin. You must jump between multiple single services, such as email, payments processing, and your database (if you have one), for features not on Facebook.

Reality: Let’s get one thing straight – social media is great for socializing, and using it to broaden the reach of your communication is a MUST. But the truth is, not EVERYBODY has Facebook. Building an event through a member management platform gives you the ease of using one system for all your event-planning needs. There is an added sense of professionalism to your organization’s official event. Your members can access your event site, invitation, and RSVP, without having to sign up for an account (Facebook or otherwise). And you will have access to the same features available on Facebook and more! Photos can even be uploaded by members to a shared album. Now all you have to do is, “Say cheese!”    

Join us and check out how we can help you improve the way you manage your group.  

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About Daren DeFrank

​As a content writer and social media coordinator, Daren uses her social media savvy to connect with group leaders and help them reach their goals. In her spare time, she's a major foodie with a love of traveling. With a ferocious appetite for places to explore, she’s always looking for new adventures around the globe.