By Paul Martin “Marty” Peters, Rotary Club of Del Mar, California, USA
Last month, I visited a neighboring Rotary club to sponsor someone to join that club. Their president asked me why I was sponsoring the person into his club instead of my own. When I mentioned the meeting time was more suitable for their schedule, he noted how this was the third Rotarian I had introduced into his club. That was more than most of his members had sponsored!
When he asked me how I do it, I had a simple answer. Every morning, I put on my watch, and then I put my Rotary pin on my collar.
He asked me if I was on my club’s membership committee. But the truth is, all the members of my club are the membership committee! At the end of that meeting, we shared some ideas that may work for all clubs.
First, wear a Rotary pin and smile when introduced.
Second, if someone asks you about Rotary, share a personal experience you’ve had. But keep it short, no longer than two sentences. Then invite the person to be your guest at your next club meeting.
If they agree, suggest they arrive a half hour before the meeting so they can observe your vocational or community service committee, if those meet before your regular club meetings.
During the meeting, sit with them as they enjoy the fellowship and the speaker. When the meeting is over, get their response to what they experienced. I typically ask, “What is your reaction now that you have seen my crazy second family?”
Usually, your guest will respond positively. If so, you can let them know you would be honored to be their sponsor (as membership is by invitation). Have an application and a projected cost sheet handy so you can answer any questions they have about membership.
Share these simple steps with your members and encourage them to be the de facto members of your membership committee. Consider having a committee meet before your regular meeting. It’s a great and effective way to give guests a good look at your club’s service impact.
Remember, bringing in new members starts with you. I’m sure your parents always told you to make your bed first thing in the morning. Now, just add to that, “wear your Rotary pin.”
About the author: Paul Martin “Marty” Peters is a member of the Rotary Club of Del Mar, California, USA, and a passionate advocate for membership growth. Marty has personally sponsored and helped introduce nearly 40 new members to Rotary, not only in his own club but also in two neighboring clubs. His approach reflects his belief that every Rotarian is part of the membership committee and can play a role in helping people discover Rotary.
