The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community…
Generative AI. AI content is short-term arbitrage, not a long-term content marketing strategy, says Ryan Law at Ahrefs. Google doesn’t look kindly on AI-infused content. You won’t stand out in your market or connect and build trust with your audience if you’re publishing mediocre AI-generated content. I’ve got room in my schedule for another client if you’d rather share the expertise and experience of a real human.
Strategic advice. Once again, Dean West of Association Laboratory applies lessons learned from his European travels to aspects of association management, such as anticipating setbacks, building on and updating earlier structures, seeking guidance, understanding roles, and finding time for an aperitivo or two.
Event technology. For their event technology buyer’s guide, EventMobi interviewed 20 association event professionals to better understand the most time-consuming challenges when buying event technology—a good thing to know when starting a selection project. They share insights on what you should look for in a technology partner, key questions to ask potential vendors, and purchasing mistakes to avoid.
Google rankings. The SEO community is buzzing about the internal Google documents leaked to the founder of an SEO software company. Tim Metz at Animalz shares the biggest takeaway: “original, helpful content beats copycat fluff.” He wisely advises writing for readers, not for SEO algorithms.
Annual conferences. Redesigning your annual conference is risky but you have to keep appealing to new audiences as they enter and make their way through the workplace. Kara Nacarato at Event Garde offers advice on balancing tradition and innovation when reinventing the annual conference experience.
Membership. A few common issues come up in GrowthZone’s latest association survey report. One is the difficulty of proving the value of membership to prospects and members. Another is persuading members to make time for association engagement. The report spotted a lack of intention in solving these issues: most associations admit to not having documented plans for member engagement, young professional recruitment and lapsed member reengagement. Seems like a good place to start.
Event sunsetting. Chamber Pros Community describes how to use data to assess whether an event is still serving your chamber, chapter, or association.
AI detection. Last summer, MIT researchers advised not relying on AI detection tools to determine whether someone used ChatGPT because of false positives. But many companies still think these tools work. Josh Bernoff says generative AI platforms write with an “accent,” that’s how you spot suspect content.
Off-topic
How to turn off Google’s annoying AI overviews and only get search results. | by Avram Piltch, Tom’s Hardware
What a disaster. Why reading books, not paragraphs, is essential for our children and for civilization. | by Doug Lemov, Education Next
On a visit to the Cathedral at Chartres. | by Peter Hitchens, The Lamp
Anne Elliot is twenty-seven. (IYKYK) | by B. D. McClay, The Paris Review
You never grow old at the table
My fish market recommended this satisfying recipe: pan-seared blueline tilefish with mushrooms, asparagus, and onions. Despite what the recipe says, just use one pan to sauté the mushrooms, onions, and asparagus all at the same time. I added garlic to the recipe and increased all the amounts because I had one pound of tilefish fillets.
The next night, we had pan-seared lemon-pepper yellowfin tuna steaks. Avoid god-knows-what and make your own lemon-pepper seasoning from lemon zest, freshly ground black pepper, and salt. I added a big, smooshed garlic clove to the oil as it was heating up and sprinkled lemon juice over the steaks as they were cooking.
For Sunday breakfast, we had this tasty dish: baked eggs with salsa verde. I used Muenster cheese instead of Monterey Jack because we had some in the frig. I’ve made salsa verde a few different ways but never in a blender like this. The leftover salsa is doing wonders for my breakfast burritos.
For dinner on Sunday, I made Ina Garten’s skillet-roasted chicken and potatoes from her cookbook, Modern Comfort Food. Delicious as you would expect from Ina. My only change: adding rosemary in addition to the recommended thyme. On the side, roasted broccoli, orange cauliflower, and purple cauliflower with red onion and garlic powder.
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If you have a free webinar or event coming up, please send me the link by Wednesday afternoon the week before it’s scheduled. I’m happy to feature it as long as it’s not too product-centric.
Fri 6/7 at 11 a.m.* – To Take a Stand or Not: A Framework to Discuss and Decide
Learn how to rank the importance of polarizing positions based on your brand purpose, how and why certain polarizing issues become part of your brand conversation and how to manage them, the decision-making factors within which companies/associations navigate taking a stand, and how to effectively give leaders common language to determine if an issue is worthy of a campaign or public statement. More info/register – repeats Sat 5/8 through Wed 6/12 at 11 a.m.
Hosts: crisis communications expert Adele Gambardella and Chip Massey
*All events are online at Eastern Daylight Time unless otherwise noted.
Fri 6/7 at 4 p.m. – Online Communities Series: Part 2 – Creating an Impactful Onboarding Campaign for an Association’s Online Community
Do more than welcome members into your community with a strategic onboarding campaign that gets them deeply engaged within their first year. A simple, efficient campaign educates members on how to effectively utilize the community, ensuring they get value out of using it. These ideas can also be used when reviewing the comprehensive member onboarding processes and campaigns that your organization has set up. Learn techniques that result in a 5% increase in member engagement within the first few months. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: Fridays@4
Speaker: Catherine Hackney, online community consultant specializing in association member communities
Mon 6/10 at 8 a.m. – Meetings in Politically Challenging Environments (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)
Every week Rogue Tulips brings the nonprofit community intriguing guests discussing vital topics affecting nonprofit organizations around the world—and we have fun doing it! Episodes are published Monday mornings in both audio and video format, available on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast (to name a few!).
Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, CNP, principal and founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting
Guest: Frank Gainer, Vice President, Meetings & Events, American Occupational Therapy Association
Mon 6/10 at 12 p.m. – Membership Monday: Leveraging Volunteers to Supercharge Community Engagement
Learn how to clearly define the foundation of a Community Champions volunteer program, find superusers and engage the right people to be volunteers, work synchronously with volunteers and keep them engaged over time, and prepare for what to do in best-case and worst-case scenarios. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE
Speaker: Catherine Hackney with Confident Communities Consulting
Tue 6/11 from 12 to 2 p.m. – AI Policy, Practice & Communication (Washington DC)
Hear three association case studies on using AI to create content, develop a special magazine issue on AI, and put together an internal AI use policy. Location: Washington DC. More info/register.
Host: AM&P Next community
Speakers:
- Matthew Cibellis, Learning First Alliance
- Cecily Garber, associate vice president, communications and member relations, NBOA: Business Leadership for Independent Schools
- Dani Gudakunst, managing editor, Police Chief, International Association of Chiefs of Police
Tue 6/11 at 12 p.m. – Tech Tuesday: Supercharge Your Association with Data & AI
Discover how data and AI can propel your association’s growth. Hear valuable insights on leveraging technology to drive success. Learn from your community and transform your association with cutting-edge strategies. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE Technology Council
Speaker: Tori Miller Liu, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO of the Association for Intelligent Information Management,
Moderators: Reggie Henry of ASAE and Dave Coriale of DelCor Technology Solutions
Tue 6/11 at 12 p.m. – LGBTQIA2+ 2024 Community Call
This event is a unique and inclusive opportunity for association professionals across all career stages to connect and engage over lunch. It’s a space where you can openly share and discuss topics that are current and significant to the LGBTQIA2+ association community. Whether you have burning questions, pressing issues, or insightful experiences to share, this judgment-free zone welcomes your valuable contributions. Let’s come together to support, learn from each other, and build a stronger, more inclusive community. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE
Tue 6/11 at 4:30 p.m. CDT – AWTC AMS Fest Chicago Welcome (Chicago IL)
Come network with the AWTC community of women and allies. Location: Chicago IL. More info/register.
Host: Association Women Technology Champions
Wed 6/12 at 12 p.m. – Prepping Your Team for a Migration Journey
Migrating to new systems requires not only tactical planning and training, but knowing when to rally staff as they adopt new processes and manage change. Since technology, and more importantly, data is owned by more than one team, associations also have to figure out how best to move forward while maintaining business continuity. Learn what to watch out for and how you can update your association technology stack while minimizing disruption and ensuring continued ownership and improvements. More info/register.
Host: HighRoad Solutions
Speaker: Chandler Miller, Sr Digital Advisor, HighRoad Solutions
Wed 6/12 at 12 p.m. – Beyond Content: AI Strategies To Boost Your Association’s PR Efforts (Open Mic)
Learn about AI tools that not only enhance the readability and SEO of your press releases but also optimize timing for distribution to maximize engagement. Hear about the power of predictive analytics to refine your PR strategies, analyze historical data and current trends, and predict which efforts will yield the best results, helping you craft content that truly engages your audience. Learn how to create a customized AI model tailored to your association’s needs. More info/register.
Host: OnWrd & UpWrd
Speakers: Colleen Gallagher, President & CEO, and Meghan Henning, Senior PR Strategist, OnWrd & UpWrd
Wed 6/12 at 12:30 p.m. – YPAC Lunch & Learn: Navigating Trust Falls, Ice Breakers, and Team Building
In today’s semi-remote world, how can we build connections across job titles, functions, and generations in meaningful and constructive ways? How do you approach bringing your authentic selves to a new workplace? Learn how to foster and develop relationships in your workplace. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE Young Professionals Committee
Speakers: Genevieve Borello, CAE, MPA
Wed 6/12 at 1 p.m. – Lessons From Amazon: Mastering Data Analytics for Unmatched Customer Experience
Members expect personalized, responsive service that anticipates their needs and preferences. Amazon has set the gold standard by leveraging data analytics to create ultra-curated experiences for each customer. But how do they do it? Hear about Amazon’s strategies and actionable insights for organizations aspiring to deliver similar excellence. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: UST Education
Speaker: Rachel Mace, Director of Client Experience, Association Analytics
Wed 6/12 at 1 p.m. – Because You Are Worth It: The Art and Science of Self-Promotion and Self-Advocacy
Learn how the art and science of self-advocacy and promotion showcases and highlights career accomplishments for professional advancement. However, factors such as cultural background, gender norms, imposter syndrome, and career stage can present barriers. Hear insights, real-world examples, and tools that help you become more effective at self-promotion for career advancement and enhancement. More info/register.
Host: Association Latinos
Wed 6/12 from 1 to 4 p.m. – Panel Discussion: Credential Value Creation (Washington DC)
Explore credential value creation with a panel of diverse speakers, presenting perspectives from certification organizations in different industries, an accreditation organization, and a certification lawyer. We will begin with updates from our four panelists on key aspects of credential value creation including two cases studies and then move to an open Q&A panel discussion. Location: Washington DC. More info/register.
Host: Certification Network Group
Speakers:
- Julia Judish, Special Counsel, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
- Joe Maslott, CPA, AICPA
- Usma Mohamed, Council for Professional Recognition
- Denise Roosendaal, Institute for Credentialing Excellence
Wed 6/12 at 2 p.m. – 2024 CQ Election Watch: US Presidential Campaigns
Learn everything you need to know about the 2024 presidential election and how to start preparing. Hear about key battleground states, emerging campaign strategies, and the critical issues shaping the electoral landscape. More info/register.
Host: CQ
Speakers: CQ and Roll Call White House correspondent John T. Bennett and elections analyst Nathan L. Gonzales
Thu 6/13 at 10 a.m. – Unlock the Power of Translation: How to Create a Language Strategy for Your Association
Find out about all aspects of translation and language strategies for associations. Discover the benefits of translation beyond just member growth, including reach, perception, inclusion, and accessibility. Learn how to conduct market research to assess translation needs and develop a cohesive language strategy to maximize ROI. Hear about various translation options, such as in-house staff, third-party vendors, and AI technology. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE International Associations Advisory Council
Speakers:
- Jakub Konysz, MBA, IOM, CAE, Founder and CEO, Global Navigators
- Magdalena Nowicka Mook, CEO, International Coaching Federation
- Allison Ferch (moderator), Executive Director, Globalization and Localization Association
Thu 6/13 at 12 p.m. – Power Dynamics in Nonprofit Governance: Recognition, Redistribution, and Resistance
Explore new perspectives and cutting-edge practices in governance, with a strong emphasis on bridging the gap between research and practical application. More info/register.
Host: ARNOVA Governance Section
Speakers:
- Patricia Bradshaw, Ph.D., Professor Emeria, Sobey School of Business, Saint Mary’s University, Canada
- Nesly Metayer, Ph.D. , Principal, EquiLead Consulting Group
Thu 6/13 at 1 p.m. – Creating Vibrant Online Communities: Strategies & Insights for Membership & Marketing
Hear about the complexities of creating inviting and engaging online communities that drive member retention and growth. Learn why traditional measures of engagement are not synonymous with vibrancy, how to implement the essential elements of a vibrant community, how vibrant communities drive member retention and growth, and why the most impactful communities foster a sense of genuine belonging. More info/register.
Host: Forj
Speakers:
- Heidi Ellis, Managing Director, Community and Event Engagement, ISTE
- Kurt Heikkinen, Chief Executive Officer, Forj
Thu 6/13 from 5 to 7 p.m. CDT: Noche de Cultura y Comunidad (Chicago IL)
This evening showcases Latino culture, traditional foods, refreshing beverages, and a familia vibe for networking. Enjoy cultural games and trivia, learn about Latino culture, and get ready to bailar as we turn up the music with lively Latino rhythms. This event isn’t just about fun; it’s a chance to strengthen connections among colleagues, allies, and familia within the nonprofit sector. Whether you’re part of the Latino community or a supportive ally, you’ll find something to enjoy, learn, and dance to. More info/register.
Host: Association Latinos
Fri 6/14 at 1 p.m. – Talk with CAEs
An online space for CAE candidates to ask questions about the CAE (e.g., exam preparations, eligibility, exam content outline, study strategies, practice questions, tips and advice, etc.) and current CAEs to share their knowledge and experience with the exam. More info/register.
Facilitators:
- Aaron Grau, CAE, President, Global Association Partners
- DeeJay Hastings, CAE, Executive Consultant, LEWIS, LLC
Fri 6/14 at 4 p.m. – What Does Juneteenth Mean to You, and How Can Associations Honor or Celebrate It?
Participate in a networking discussion about what Juneteenth means to you and how associations can best honor/celebrate it. More info/register.
Host: Fridays@4
Mon 6/17 at 3 p.m. – Finding Focus: Establishing Strategic Priorities that Meet the Moment
Hear how association executives have approached strategy development and prioritization with mission impact in mind. Explore a data-driven, collaborative approach to strategic planning that aligns the board and staff to pursue a shared vision of success. Learn how to identify and establish enduring priorities that align with your organization’s mission, empowering you to drive meaningful impact while staying responsive to change. More info/register.
Host: McKinley Advisors
Speakers:
- Deborah Bowen, FACHE, CAE, President & CEO, ACHE
- Sherrif Karamat, CAE, President & CEO, PCMA and CEMA
- Christie Tarantino-Dean, FASAE, CAE, Chief Executive Officer, IFT
- Jay Younger, FASAE, President & CEO, McKinley Advisors
Mon 6/17 from 3 to 5 p.m. – Unveiling UX Insights: A Hands-On Exploration (Rockville MD)
Get hands-on experience with user research techniques and see how to collect insights that shape your member’s digital experiences so you can run your own UX research and usability tests to improve your association’s digital presence. Learn how to conduct usability tests to enhance UX functionality and user satisfaction from developing your research goals, building a test plan, executing your testing, and analyzing your results. Location: Rockville MD. More info/register.
Host: Association Women Technology Champions
Speakers:
- Anisah Kabli, Director of Web Development at AVIXA
- Rhoni Rakos, Director of Digital Strategy at fusionSpan
- Ray van Hilst, Director of Client Results at Yoko Co.
Tue 6/18 at 12 p.m. – 10 Awkward Questions to Ask your Tech Vendor
An AMS salesperson might wow you with all the system’s bells and whistles, but asking key awkward questions will help you determine if you are investing in the right system to meet your association’s needs. Learn how asking the right awkward questions can set you and your association up for success. More info/register.
Host: Ellipsis Partners
Speakers: Jim Pearson, MS Ed, PMP, senior consultant, and Moira Edwards, CAE, president, Ellipsis Partners LLC
Tue 6/18 at 1 p.m. – Mapping the Cookie Crumbs: A Hands-On Approach to Process Mapping
Learn about the fundamentals of process mapping. Find out how to create and interpret process maps and apply process mapping to improve business operations. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: UST Education
Speaker: Gary Harpenau, COO, Innovia Consulting
Tue 6/18 at 1 p.m. – Positioning your Credentialing Program for Success
Learn how to build credentialing programs that meet the needs of stakeholders (now and as they evolve in the future), are consistent with best practices, and are legally defensible. Hear how to gather evidence to make decisions, define members’ needs, find cost-effective solutions for key steps and services in the credentialing process, and create a product portfolio of diverse offerings that address professional development needs and drive revenue. 1 CAE credit. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE
Speakers:
- Cynthia Allen, ICE-CCP, President, SeaCrest Consulting
- Amanda Dainis, PhD, MPA, CEO & Lead Psychometrician, Dainis & Company, Inc.
- Michael Mayer, President, Prolydian
Wed 6/19 at 11 a.m. – Charting the Course Beyond Membership: The Essential Role of Non-dues Revenue in Association Success
Learn how associations can strategically leverage non-dues revenue opportunities to ensure financial stability and long-term success. Hear about practical strategies, best practices, and real-life examples to maximize revenue potential and drive success beyond traditional membership models. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: UST Education
Speaker: Bill Sheehan, Global Head, Association Strategy, D2L
Thu 6/20 at 12:30 p.m. – Behind the Screens: TMA’s Website Makeover
Hear about the “behind the screens” experiences leading TMA’s successful website redesign including what worked (and didn’t): designing the RFP and finding the right partner, streamlining navigation and introducing modern branding, creating member journeys and personalized experiences, and empowering TMA’s small staff and creating efficiencies. 0.5 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: .orgSource
Speakers:
- Jodi Talley, Senior Director of Marketing & Communications, Turnaround Management Association
- Laura Graham, Senior Solutions Consultant, Results Direct | RD Mobile
Thu 6/20 at 1 p.m. – How to Build an Effective Business Continuity Plan
An effective business continuity plan (BCP) seeks to minimize downtime and lost goodwill in the event your operations are disrupted. This spans everything from identifying potential losses to drawing up recovery plans to designing system and personnel redundancies to simulating various incidents. Learn why business continuity plans still matter in the age of remote work, the anatomy of a comprehensive BCP according to current best practice, and hw to go about building your association’s unique plan. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: UST Education
Speakers: Chris Abel, Manager of Consulting Services, and Heinan Landa, Founder & CEO, Optimal Networks
Fri 6/21 at 3 p.m. – The Informal Consultants Networking Extravaganza
Topic for this month’s networking meeting for association consultants is: business continuity planning for the solopreneur or small practice consultancy—in addition to any immediate concerns of the group, which will be discussed first. This meeting is self-organized by the consultant community, not an official ASAE event. More info.
Organizer: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting
Association Brain Food Weekly is published Friday mornings. If your organization offers free professional development for the association community, please send me the link via email by Wednesday afternoon the week before it’s scheduled.
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