Getting New Members

By Deone Roberts, AU Sport Development

One of the easiest ways to get the word out about an existing club is to place an inexpensive ad in the local newspaper.

For AU’s Rocky Mountain Racing Pigeon Club in Utah, the result has been very beneficial. The first year they ran the ad, the club gained six new members. The second year the club ran the ad; the club gained nine new members. How can something so effortless give such a great return?

You know the old saying, “Keep it simple?” That’s exactly what they do. The pet section of the newspaper addresses the target audience they want. The ads are inexpensive. The wording is kept to a minimum and creates interest.

“Forming competitive racing pigeon club. Racing 100-600 miles. Local club willing to help beginners get started. Contact Joe Racer 555-555-5555.” The first ad attracted interest from people in their 20’s. The second ad attracted a wider span of age.

Once interest is confirmed, club members work to get the new fanciers on the right road. With a little pre-planning and extra breeding, the birds and guidance are readily available. Preparation meets opportunity. The AU Rocky Mountain Racing Pigeon Club is enjoying more racing competition than they have had in years.

Nice work guys!

Another way to utilize the local paper is to list your club meeting time in the weekly activities section. These listings are typically free. Each newspaper has its own deadline. Some ask that information be sent the week prior. Others prefer 2-3 weeks in advance. They may even provide guidance on the preferred format. A simple format example would be, “Rocky Mountain Racing Pigeon Club meets Thursday, March 30, 7pm. Provides beginner assistance. Contact Joe Racer 555-555-5555.”

Once the inquiries are filtered, callers can be invited to the meeting. Having helpful printed materials and educational meetings will make the newcomer feel welcome and better informed. The American Racing Pigeon Union has plenty of supportive materials available to provide for visitors.

Eventually the club may determine to have an “open to the public” meeting, at which curiosity seekers can satisfy their interest. Having a member assigned to provide coffee and cookies makes a welcome transition into introductions and conversation. Even though club members know the open meeting is not for member gain, it is a great opportunity to influence company with positive communication.