The Great Ideas Conference is going on in Orlando right now. This year 800 people have come together to talk about innovation and what that looks like for associations. Here’s how you can apply some of those concepts to chamber innovation as well.
I’m following the Twitter stream quite intently as I love the subject of innovation. Here are a couple of gems I gleaned from the conference.
One of my favorite quotes coming out of the conference so far is:
“What if” turns a thought into a conversation
Often we wonder what the key to engagement is. How do we get our members to engage with us and with our content? Sure, producing worthwhile content that educates, entertains and/or entices is at the center of that, but sometimes it’s as easy as asking.
Reading is a passive activity so placing a question at the bottom of your blog post most likely won’t elicit a reaction or conversation.
A conversation, on the other hand, is an active undertaking, so asking people what they think or “what if” questions draws a response. Unless they want a socially awkward moment they have to provide that feedback.
This is also a fantastic motivator for employees. If you’re excited about a thought you had, don’t open it up to your staff with: this is what we’re doing, if you want a conversation or feedback. That sentence structure closes a door and produces head nods and quiet glances. If you want a conversation, and still want to present an idea, try “what if.”
Another great quote:
Your vibe attracts your tribe
People want to be with others who fit their world view. When you make people feel good, people will be attracted to your chamber. A vibe of helping business will attract those interested in growing your community and improving the economy.
Storytelling can be an extension of that vibe. Telling a chamber story that is true to who you are, not who you wished you were, is essential to attracting your ideal member.
Finally, one last note about innovation. Creative thought and innovation is born out of repose. If you’re not allowing yourself time for that, your ideas will stagnate and you’ll fall into the trap of doing it like you always have because it’s easier and less time consuming.
