Metrics are a key component of data-driven marketing as they provide a standard and consistent way to measure, understand, and track marketing data and results. They track key performances, progress, quality, efficacy, efficiency, and more. When measuring metrics it is important to establish a baseline in order to effectively analyze the information you are gathering. In order to measure effectiveness and growth, a baseline must be in place to do so. It is also important to measure consistently. Most associations measure monthly or quarterly, looking for insights, patterns, outliers, and more. Another key part of metrics is identifying a KPI, or a key performance indicator. KPI’s demonstrate growth and opportunity, as well as success. KPI’s can reflect goals, number of views, values of data, and more.

These are my little secrets, my swiss army knife of tricks up my sleeve, my free resources that make me look like a rockstar within my team and in front of a client (and I’m sharing them with you!). Whether you are newly tasked with the membership marketing goals of your organization, fully versed in digital marketing lingo, or somewhere in between - I’ve got something here for you. I even especially highlighted these resources for associations and nonprofits.

The common goal of an association’s marketing efforts is member engagement; however, the marketing approach that produces the most member engagement is the most difficult to execute. So, we uncovered some interesting insights through our annual Demand Metric marketing survey to learn more about event marketing and associations.

The professional education and certification programs that associations offer have long been an effective tool for recruiting new members and increasing revenue.  This year these educational offerings may become the most effective tool an association has to accomplish these goals.  The value placed on these benefits of membership has been on the rise in recent years.  According to a study on member engagement by Abila, professional education and certification is identified by all age groups as one of the most important benefits obtained from association membership.  An article, written by Jessica Lane at Abila, explains in more detail why associations should focus on education this year and what the benefits of doing so are.