Why Fewer People Join Organizations Today

A review of all sized organizations, whether small, intermediate or large, has indicated that nearly all have experienced a reduction in membership over the last couple of decades, with an even larger decline in the past decade. This includes various types of groups, including professional organizations (such as medical society, dental society, law association, etc.), civic organizations, organized political parties (especially Republican and Democrat), philanthropies, religious (synagogues and churches), etc. While there is no one specific reason for this decline, some of the major factors that have contributed to this trend include:

1. People are unwilling to spend the monies to belong. There is so much more competition for our attention, and so many different ways that individuals can get the services once offered advantageously to members. Many individuals have decided to prioritize and reduce the number of organizations that they affiliate with.

2. Has the organization evolved for modern times? Many organizations have not adapted to changes in the world and the way business and life is done, and so many potential members find the organization no longer relevant. Other organizations, in their attempt to evolve or be more relevant, dramatically changed their "mission," and thus alienated many of their past members, who felt abandoned. Leaders of organizations must understand that there is a fine line between evolution of an organization and revolution, and that evolution almost invariably has better results and implications.

3. Many organizations suffer from dearth of leadership. As the membership numbers have declined, so has the pool of potential quality leaders, and poor leaders lose members. Leaders and potential leaders need to be extensively trained in a quality, professional designed, organized and conducted Leadership Training program. Leadership development must be a process that begins with identification of possible leaders, then qualifying these individuals, and then a true step by step training program, that teaches them both the necessities and responsibilities of leadership.

4. Many leaders have not motivated leaders. Organizations need to motivate potential members, past (or lapsed) members, and present members that their belonging and getting more involved is both relevant and important, and make people feel wanted. Far too few individuals in leadership roles understand the importance of the two words, "Thank You," to getting someone to remain involved and feel wanted.

5. Organizations need to address the issue of perceived value. How do potential, lapsed or even present members perceive the group? Do they feel it's worth their time, money and effort to belong? In what ways, will belonging enhance their being and provide value, whether it be financially, ethically, philanthropically, etc. How many understand the past achievements, the present programs or the future vision and direction of the group?

These are just a few of the factors involved, yet it should be obvious that it is not merely an accident that so many changes have occurred in terms of membership and member involved. Those organizations that identify and commit to addressing these and other relevant issues often thrive while others cease to exist.

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