Kerry Oliver’s Personal Touch is Attracting New Members

In the world of Rotary, attracting and retaining new members is not just about spreading the word—it’s about building genuine connections. A recent example from the Eugene Delta Rotary Club highlights how this personal touch can make all the difference.

Kerry Oliver, an insurance agent by profession, approaches membership in much the same way he would when attracting new clients. Over the past 5-6 weeks, his methodical and personable approach has brought impressive results. Kerry’s strategy is simple yet highly effective: he prioritizes immediate engagement with potential members. Here’s how he does it:

• Prompt Follow-Up: The moment a potential member expresses interest, Kerry reaches out to them, often arranging a coffee meeting within days. This immediate connection makes new prospects feel valued and welcomed.
• New Member Interest Survey: During these meetings, Kerry ensures that each prospect completes the New Member Interest Survey. This not only helps the club understand the new member’s passions and skills but also allows Kerry to tailor the onboarding experience to each individual.
• Showcasing New Members: Kerry makes it a point to schedule New Member Bios at club meetings. This step ensures that new members feel recognized and integrated into the club’s culture from the start.
• Accompaniment to Other Meetings: Going beyond the usual induction, Kerry accompanies new members to other Rotary Club meetings. This not only familiarizes them with the broader Rotary community but also helps cement their commitment to the organization.

Thanks to Kerry’s dedication and personal touch, the Eugene Delta Club has welcomed two new members recently, with three more prospects showing serious interest after their first visits.

Building Connections, Building Rotary

Kerry Oliver’s approach is a powerful reminder that personal connections are at the heart of what we do in Rotary. It’s not just about recruiting numbers; it’s about fostering relationships that make new members feel like they are truly part of our Rotary family.

As we all strive to grow our clubs, let’s take a page from Kerry’s book. The next time a prospective member comes through our doors, let’s ask ourselves: How can we connect with them on a personal level? How can we make their Rotary journey meaningful from the very beginning?

Remember, attracting new members is not just about what we say—it’s about how we make them feel.