Property participation at association events

Does anyone have any "new" ideas for increasing property participation at industry association events? I serve on the local Board and have been given the directive to increase attendance at events. I posed the question, "What is exciting/sexy about property management?" I feel that once we can answer this, we can give the membership what they need and thus increase participation. Any thoughts?

In this economy, what I'm hearing most is that companies have cut back drastically on their marketing/training and other line items, so on-site teams can't spend as much to attend functions.

I've had the best luck by adjusting the rates for attending. If I can get 100 people for a little less money and only 20 at a higher rate, then I'd rather adjust the rates so that the associations can make more money and so that I can get the training out to more of the on-site teams.

Also, in this economy having meaningful drawings also helps bring people in - gift cards to party supply stores, discount stores, gas cards, etc. that they could turn around and use on their property or personally.

As a long time association supporter and a past board member, I have seen our association go through the same issue. My suggestion to you and what we as a board did was take a look at our association as a whole to make sure that we were offering both direct and associate members what they wanted from their association. (please note that the key word is "their"). The membership has to take ownership and make it theirs. We polled the membership and asked them what type of speakers they would like to hear and what other activities that they would like to do. We also asked how they felt about the association. We found out that alot of people thought it was clickish and a waste of time. We as a board went into action to change that reputation. We developed and promoted committees that improved education, community outreach,membership, and programs. we also came from around the "board table" and sat with the membership during meetings. now our members feel like they are a part of an association that is making a difference in our communities and in our careers.


I hope this helps.