Engagement Levels Overview: Difference between revisions
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== Common Misconceptions == | == Common Misconceptions == | ||
* '''“High engagement is better.”''' | * '''“High engagement is better.”''' | ||
** Not true. All levels are valuable. | |||
* '''“We should push members to participate more.”''' | * '''“We should push members to participate more.”''' | ||
** Engagement should be invited, not pressured. | |||
* '''“Non-attending members are disengaged.”''' | * '''“Non-attending members are disengaged.”''' | ||
** Many members engage through communication, identity, or passive participation. | |||
== Key Takeaway == | == Key Takeaway == | ||
Revision as of 23:24, 25 March 2026
Purpose
Provide a simple framework for understanding and designing member engagement across different levels of participation.
Guiding Principle
Members engage in different ways — and all forms of participation are valid.
A strong Local Group offers multiple ways to connect, without requiring members to engage in a specific way.
The Engagement Spectrum
Engagement is not a binary (active vs inactive). It is a spectrum:
| Level | Primary Goal | Typical Experience | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Commitment | Easy entry | Flexible, optional, low-pressure | Coffee meetups, newsletters, virtual chats |
| Medium Engagement | Build connection | Some structure, repeat participation | Book clubs, workshops, group outings |
| High Engagement | Create ownership | Responsibility, leadership, contribution | Hosting events, committees, leadership roles |
How the Levels Work Together
These levels are not steps that members must follow.
- Members may stay at one level indefinitely
- Members may move between levels over time
- Different levels meet different needs
The goal is not to “move everyone up” — it is to provide options.
Why This Framework Matters
Using engagement levels helps Local Groups:
- Reach more members
- Reduce barriers to participation
- Support different interests and availability
- Build sustainable volunteer pipelines
A group that only offers one level will unintentionally exclude members.
Designing a Balanced Activity Mix
A healthy Local Group offers a mix of engagement levels over time.
Example:
- Low: casual meetup or newsletter engagement
- Medium: recurring discussion group
- High: member-led event or committee
Balance matters more than any single activity.
Using This Framework in Practice
When planning activities, ask:
- What level of engagement does this activity support?
- Who is this designed for?
- Are we offering enough variety across levels?
This helps ensure your calendar serves a broad range of members.
Common Misconceptions
- “High engagement is better.”
- Not true. All levels are valuable.
- “We should push members to participate more.”
- Engagement should be invited, not pressured.
- “Non-attending members are disengaged.”
- Many members engage through communication, identity, or passive participation.
Key Takeaway
A strong Local Group does not try to maximize participation in one way.
It creates multiple ways for members to feel connected — on their own terms.