Engagement Levels Overview
Members engage in different ways — and all forms of participation are valid.
A strong Local Group offers multiple ways for members to feel connected, without requiring members to engage in a specific way.
Purpose
[edit | hide all | hide | edit source]Provide a simple framework for understanding and designing member engagement across different levels of participation.
The Engagement Spectrum
[edit | hide | edit source]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
[edit | hide | edit source]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
[edit | hide | edit source]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
[edit | hide | edit source]A healthy Local Group offers opportunities across multiple engagement levels.
| Engagement Level | Typical Focus | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Low | Easy entry | Casual or drop-in activities |
| Medium | Connection and consistency | Recurring groups or structured activities |
| High | Ownership and contribution | Organizing, hosting, or leadership opportunities |
Balance matters more than any single activity.
Using This Framework in Practice
[edit | hide | edit source]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
[edit | hide | edit source]- High engagement is better.
- All engagement levels are valuable.
- Members should be encouraged to participate more.
- Engagement should be invited, not pressured.
- “Non-attending members are disengaged.”
- Many members engage through communication, identity, or passive participation.