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Yearly Wrap-Up With David Ewald 2023

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In this episode we welcome back David Ewald, CEO of Ewald Consulting, to review association trends of 2023 and discuss what we may see in 2024.

Takeaways:

  1. Hybrid Events are (Still) Here to Stay

Hybrid events, combining in-person and virtual components, have evolved into a significant and lasting trend. The adoption of virtual meetings, particularly during the pandemic, has demonstrated the benefits of extending reach, accessibility, and flexibility. Organizations now see the value of offering hybrid options, providing attendees with the choice to participate in-person or virtually, making events more inclusive and reaching a broader audience.

  1. The Future of Technology in Associations

The discussion emphasizes the need for associations to stay on top of technological advancements beyond just AI. David anticipates continued evolution of mobile technology in the association space, encouraging organizations to embrace and optimize the mobile experience for members. Additionally, the potential integration of virtual reality in conferences and events is highlighted, posing a question about the future possibility of attending virtual meetings using VR technology. The constant evolution of technology is seen as a significant factor that associations must navigate to stay relevant and effectively serve their members.

  1. Ongoing Challenges and Strategies for Associations

David underscores the enduring challenges faced by associations, such as budget constraints, changing demographics, and the need to diversify revenue streams. As associations navigate these challenges, the focus is on maintaining financial stability and operational effectiveness. Strategies discussed include meeting members where they are, understanding and adapting to demographic shifts, and finding innovative ways to generate revenue. Associations are encouraged to proactively address these ongoing challenges to ensure their sustainability and continued impact in the years ahead. Organizations also continue to face changes in workplace dynamics as we continue to determine what work will look like post-lockdown. All these things are important for associations to consider as they set goals for and navigate 2024.

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Associations Next: What Even Happens in a Board Meeting? With Laurie Krueger, CAE

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In a recent conversation with Laurie Krueger, an account executive with Ewald Consulting and an Executive Director for multiple international associations, we learned about how to make the most of your board meetings. From preparation to execution, Laurie shared valuable insights on how to make these necessary gatherings more efficient and productive. 

  1. Preparation is Key. Board meetings don’t just happen on their own; they require meticulous preparation. Laurie emphasized the importance of starting the process 3 to 4 weeks in advance. This includes drafting the agenda, working with officers to refine it, and collecting all necessary documents. Distributing this information at least a week ahead of time allows board members to review, ensuring a more meaningful discussion during the meeting. 
  1. Efficient Meetings Require Engagement. Laurie highlighted the significance of active engagement during board meetings. She encouraged board members to come prepared by reading reports and documents in advance. This not only saves valuable meeting time but also ensures that discussions are focused and productive. Furthermore, she stressed the need for respectful communication and steering the conversation back on track if it veers off course. 
  1. Post-Meeting Actions Matter. After the meeting adjourns, Laurie’s work is far from over. She compiles meeting minutes, tracks action items, and follows up with relevant parties promptly. Effective post-meeting actions ensure that decisions are implemented, and the organization continues to progress efficiently. 

Board meetings are a crucial aspect of organizational management. By following these tips from an experienced executive director like Laurie Krueger, you can transform these meetings from time-consuming ordeals into productive sessions that drive your organization forward. 

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Associations Next: Ch-Ch-Changes

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In this episode, we are joined by Genae Young, member of the Board of Trustees for the Organization Development Network, and CEO of 1 Extraordinary Life. Genae sat down with us to discuss change management, particularly when it comes to the ever-changing landscape of volunteer organizations. 

Takeaways: 

  • Change management is for the organization, but it is all about the people involved. Make sure they are taken care of, listened to and supported. 
  • Make change management part of your annual plan. Have solid systems in place that help you thoughtfully navigate your change. 
  • Associations are particularly used to change. Anchor your organization in your mission, vision, and values in order. 

 

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Associations Next: Yearly Wrap-Up With David Ewald

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In our third Associations Next annual wrap-up episode, we welcome back David Ewald to give us a rundown on 2022, and learn what he’s excited for in 2023.

Takeaways:

  1. Hybrid is here to stay. After three years of the pandemic, it is clear that the way we live and work has changed. It is now possible to attend a conference across the globe without leaving your house. While this was necessary during the pandemic, it is now a preference of many association members. Consider and ask what your members think about your events.
  2. The Great Resignation is still very much in play. Between record-low unemployment rates and baby boomers leaving the work force, it is difficult to keep talent. However, this is an opportunity to lean on a younger generation who can help modernize your association.
  3. There will always be something new. As David said, in his 36 years at Ewald, “every year I go into the next year thinking I’m pretty sure I’ve seen it all and every year proves to me that I haven’t.” As we approach 2023, get excited for change and opportunity.

 

Voice

Associations Next: Voice the Change

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In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Julie Gedro, Dean of the School of Business at State University of New York Empire State College. She tells us how to thoughtfully lead change by being empathetic and a good communicator.

Takeaways:

  1. Communication takes time. It may seem like sending an email takes a minute or less, but during times of significant change, you need to put time and energy into how your messages are crafted. Dr. Gedro suggests seeing this time as an investment rather than an expense.
  2. Provide messages in a variety of ways. Everyone receives messages differently, so communicating in different ways sets up you and your employees up for greater connection and success. Odds are, you will never communicate too much.
  3. Develop a habit of empathy. Developing trust can greatly impact your ability to succeed in your change efforts. Dr. Gedro explains that this trust must be developed over time, as you cannot convince your way into being trusted. You can do this by showing interest in your team’s points of view and opening yourself up to their opinions.

 

To dig deeper, check out these reading suggestions provided by Dr. Gedro:

 

Shulga, L. V. (2020). Change Management Communication: The Role of Meaningfulness, Leadership Brand Authenticity, and Gender. Cornell Hospitality Quarterly, 1-18, doi:10.1177/1938965520929022

 

Bridges, William. Bridges Transition Model. Accessed on 5/28/2021: https://wmbridges.com/about/what-is-transition/

 

Gedro, J. Allain, N. M., De-Souza, D., Dodson, L.,  & Mawn, M. V.  (2020): Flattening the learning curve of leadership development: reflections of five women higher education leaders during the Coronavirus pandemic of 2020, Human Resource Development International, DOI: 10.1080/13678868.2020.1779911

 

Listen to the Episode: Voice the Change

Stand

Associations Next: Stand Out With Dorie Clark

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In this episode, we present a conversation with Dorie Clark, CEO of Park Strategic Communications and named one of 50 Top Business Thinkers in the world by Thinkers 50. This previously recorded conversation occurred during Ewald’s Vision 2021 Conference.

Takeaways:

  1. Too often, innovation is something called upon only when needed. Dorie explains that’s not how it works anymore. Innovation should be a constant skill we use and improve upon.
  2. Challenge the status quo. Many organizations have been doing the same things for years, simply because that’s the way things have been done. Question your organization’s practices and utilize your experiences to bring in more perspective.
  3. Ideas come from problems. Your unique perspective on problems you have faced can open up new doors for innovation.
  4. Connectors are often the most valuable people in an organization — and it’s become easier than ever to become one. Finding gaps in communication and filling them makes you indispensable in your organization. Putting the effort in to network and get a feel for others’ ideas will help you disseminate the best ideas throughout your organization. Previously, it was difficult to meet up with peers across the world or the country. Now, we can hop on Zoom calls instantly.
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Listen to the episode: Stand Out With Dorie Clark

Change

Associations Next: The Organizations Are A Changin’

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In this episode we are joined by Founder and CEO of Creative Catalysts, Dr. Amy Batiste. She tells us all about how to thoughtfully create and navigate through change in your organization. To learn more, check out our blog, Ewald in Practice.

Takeaways:

  1. We often have to push ourselves to embrace and push change. These major shifts often disrupt the day-to-day that entire organizations are used to. Part of change is embracing the discomfort and recognizing that you are on the path of becoming better.
  2. Don’t just go for the quick fix. There is energy and excitement that comes with change, but it takes hard work and understanding beyond the initial spark to move forward and create meaningful, long-lasting change.
  3. Be honest and clear about why you are creating this change. Change is rarely perfect but be transparent about where you are in the process. Communicate what you can when you can. Further, being specific about how this change fits into your organization’s mission will help with buy-

Listen to the episode: The Organizations Are A Changing’

Hybrid

Associations Next: Tips For Your Hybrid Event

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In this episode, we talk to Vicki Thein, Ewald Consulting’s Director of Events, Vicki Thein. In the episode, she tells us all about how to pull of an engaging an exciting virtual event. 

Takeaways:

  1. Find the platform that works best for you. Vicki explains that when you are looking for a platform to support your virtual guests, think about what you need from your platform. Do you want breakout rooms? The ability to answer virtual guests’ questions? Look out for what you and your organization want in a platform.
  2. Have different offerings for your different audiences. While it is important to make the virtual guests feel part of the event, Vicki explains that you should have an incentive for guests to be in person. That way, it will be worth it for the in-person attendees to take the time to be there. You can do this through special lunches, site tours and more.
  3. Hybrid events offer tremendous opportunity. Even after the pandemic, hybrid events offer the ability to attend events from anywhere in the world. The newfound flexibility that comes with the events may be here to stay.

Listen to the episode: Tips for Your Hybrid Event

Law

Associations Next: Attorney Check-In

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In this episode, we talk to Heidi Christianson, an attorney who works with associations. She tells us what we need to know about contracts with conference venues this year and what we should consider when planning an in-person event in 2021.

Takeaways:

  1. Don’t count on a force majeure term to get you out of your contract for COVID-related issues in 2021. Heidi explains that in order for force majeure to be invoked, venues must not have any way to host your event. Most venues will argue that there is some way to still hold your event, thus eliminating the possibility of force majeure.
  2. If you end up needing to cancel your contract, consider whether or not you would be willing to hold your event at the same venue the following year or within a few years. Many venues have been postponing contracts in order to hold on to revenue. This could save you cancellation fees if you are willing to be locked in early.
  3. Be in close communication with your board and your members. If you are moving forward with an in-person event, make sure you can count on in-person attendance.

Listen to the episode: Attorney Check-In

2021

Associations Next: New Year, New Approach to Events

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In our first episode of 2021, Jill Tichy, Amanda Maw, and Sarah Ewald from our events department come on the podcast to give us a look at what events might look like this year as vaccines emerge for the continuing pandemic.

Takeaways:

  1. Events may still be virtual. Even though vaccines are being distributed worldwide, associations found that virtual/hybrid conferences allow for greater accessibility than exclusively in-person conferences.
  2. Associations will need to be flexible. We are going into the year only knowing that we will not know what to expect. But after a year of constant change, we are much better positioned to take on this year.
  3. Consider spreading your content out throughout the year via webinars and summer sessions rather than having it all in one conference. The widespread use of virtual platforms now allows for easier distribution of content, so do not be afraid to take advantage.

Listen to the episode: New Year, New Approach to Events

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