Top 23 Association Trends 2023

2022 is almost in the books. As the curtains close on another year, it’s important to think ahead to what actions you want to take in 2023. We’ve compiled a list of the top 23 trends we think associations should consider in 2023.

1. Get more specific member data. Some platforms (such as Propfuel) are able to obtain more personal data points about members to help you help them more than you ever have.
2. Change up dues structure. Is your annual dues structure still working for you? Some associations have opted for a monthly subscription-like structure, auto-renewals, and more.
3. Increase dues when necessary. In order to foster growth, you may need to increase dues. This will support more initiatives that increase member education and engagement. It may feel counterintuitive, but it may be necessary.
4. Communicate with members about dues. You are not on your own when it comes to dues decisions. Consider sending out a survey asking if members would support increased dues if it meant more resources.
5. Increase non-dues initiatives. We are in the content era. Consider writing a white paper, launching a podcast, or putting together a webinar — but be sure the topic is of interest to members. 
6. More engagement with members. Consider getting more personal and increasing engagement by shouting out members on social, sending personal follow-ups after events, or sending questionnaires to make sure your members are being served the way they want.
7. Place importance on the member experience. Review your communication styles, your website usability, and more from a member perspective. Are resources easy to find? Is it easy to get help? Make sure it is a good experience for every member.
8. Vary communication methods. Members are on the go more than ever. Some may not check email but might be on Instagram frequently. Using multiple forms of communication will ensure that everyone gets the message.
9. Get social. Gen Z is already in the workforce, so how are you reaching them? You don’t have to keep up with the latest TikTok trends, but you do need to keep tabs on platforms these younger professionals stay connected on.
10. Create short-form media. Gather clips from webinars, conferences or podcasts if you have them. Members may not have a lot of time, so these short clips will get to the point and increase engagement.
11. Storytelling. Video and audio are the content members want. Consider using a story of a member that benefited from your organization rather than just describing the mission. People remember stories, not words.
12. Hybrid events. They are not going away! Members are loving the option to attend from their homes. By going hybrid, you’re opening more doors.
13. Micro events. Fun things like Facebook Lives and Zoom chats are becoming more popular. These are great ways to engage with members and show that you’re flexible and social.
14. Livestreams. Consider live-streaming sessions during your events. This is an excellent facet of hybrid events that can make members feel like they’re (almost) in the room.
15. Volunteer engagement online. Encourage volunteers to post about the organization on social media to show that your organization is vibrant and interactive.
16. Collaborative events. Consider partnering with another association to host an event.. By pooling resources, you can provide even more for both member bases.
17. Be sensitive to board emotions. Board governance isn’t easy and members will more likely than not have different opinions. In these moments, slow down and listen.
18. Follow values. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day operations, but it’s becoming more important to stay true to the values of the association. This will help guide your decisions.
19. Have a flexible budget. If you get to July and find that you need to change some things up, do it! You have much more information about the second half of the year in July than you did in January.
20. Put diversity into action. We all talk about increasing diversity efforts, but now is the time to make it count. A more diverse board will ensure that all your members are being served. 
21. Have a zero-tolerance discrimination policy. By proving to volunteers, members, and your board that you have no tolerance for discrimination, you are showing that you value those in your organization — both staff and members.
22. Have healthy boundaries as a leader. You cannot be an effective leader without taking care of yourself first. Great leaders make sure they are mentally and emotionally healthy so they can go into their jobs with a clear mind.
23. Have clear leader succession plans. Help new leaders by ensuring that there are resources and support to help the incoming leader.