Welcoming New Members: Difference between revisions
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{{Words of Wisdom | {{Words of Wisdom | ||
| wisdom = | | wisdom = | ||
Welcoming | Welcoming new members is one of the highest-impact things a Local Group can do. | ||
A positive first impression helps members feel connected, informed, and more likely to explore what Mensa has to offer. | |||
| success = | | success = | ||
* Members understand how to engage locally (if they choose) | * Members understand how to engage locally (if they choose) | ||
* Members know where to find information and support | * Members know where to find information and support | ||
* Members feel acknowledged and | * Members feel acknowledged and welcome | ||
* Members can identify at least one path for future involvement | * Members can identify at least one path for future involvement | ||
| best = | | best = | ||
Welcoming works best when it is part of the Local Group culture rather than the responsibility of a single officer. | Welcoming works best when it is part of the Local Group culture rather than the responsibility of a single officer. | ||
* | * Make contact promptly | ||
* | * Personalize communication when possible | ||
* | * Welcome members at all events | ||
* | * Treat welcoming as a shared responsibility | ||
| pitfalls = | | pitfalls = | ||
* Delayed or no initial contact | * Delayed or no initial contact | ||
* Overwhelming new members with too much information | * Overwhelming new members with too much information | ||
* Relying only on | * Relying only on automated communication | ||
* Focusing only on event attendance | * Focusing only on event attendance | ||
* Leaving new members to navigate alone | * Leaving new members to navigate alone | ||
Revision as of 05:59, 2 June 2026
Words of Wisdom
Welcoming new members is one of the highest-impact things a Local Group can do.
A positive first impression helps members feel connected, informed, and more likely to explore what Mensa has to offer.
What Success Looks Like
- Members understand how to engage locally (if they choose)
- Members know where to find information and support
- Members feel acknowledged and welcome
- Members can identify at least one path for future involvement
Best Practices
Welcoming works best when it is part of the Local Group culture rather than the responsibility of a single officer.
- Make contact promptly
- Personalize communication when possible
- Welcome members at all events
- Treat welcoming as a shared responsibility
Common Pitfalls
- Delayed or no initial contact
- Overwhelming new members with too much information
- Relying only on automated communication
- Focusing only on event attendance
- Leaving new members to navigate alone
Purpose
Provides guidance for helping new, reinstated, and transferred members feel welcomed, informed, and connected to their Local Group. These efforts complement the communications provided by the National Office.
Key Actions
Not every member joins Mensa looking for the same experience. Some seek social activities, others intellectual engagement, volunteer opportunities, travel, online communities, or simply the satisfaction of belonging. Effective welcoming helps members discover the opportunities most relevant to them.
| Step | What It Means | References |
|---|---|---|
| Make Initial Contact from Local Group |
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| Learn About the Member |
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| Help Members Get Started |
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