In the business world, and other not for profit organisations, it is very common to consider hiring specialists in areas requiring skills and professionalism, and generally we get what we pay for.

Article by PDG Andrew Hamilton, Assistant Rotary Coordinator

Rotarians all come with a wonderful variety of skill and talents. When anything needs to be done, we will almost always look to our fellow Rotarians to undertake these tasks.

The challenge is Rotarians are usually busy people, and over a period often start to run out of time and energy to see long term tasks through.

In the business world, and other not for profit organisations, it is very common to consider hiring specialists in areas requiring skills and professionalism, and generally we get what we pay for.

Marketing our Rotary Clubs is traditionally done by the Rotarians in the Clubs and much depends on the skill sets of the Rotarians involved with this task. When new members join Rotary Clubs, generally in the first instance they actually join the person inviting them, rather than the actual Club. The world is constantly changing, and we find priorities also change. New Rotary Club members sometimes find their expectations are not always met.

Clubs should seriously consider hiring paid professionals for marketing their Club to attract new members. This has started to happen is some districts. One example is the Temuka-Geraldine Club in District 9999. A Club which was struggling with membership for many years (membership of approximately 15), hired a professional marketing person and ran a marketing campaign which has had tremendous success, resulting in at least 10 new members joining the Club, and likely more to follow.

Of course, this costs money but is worthwhile for successful Club growth. When hiring professionals, generally you get what you pay for, so it is important to ensure their skills, expertise and experience are relevant before deciding who to hire, and implementing such a strategy. The results can be well worth it.