Working together, national associations and their local chapters can
achieve great results. By combining national resources with a grassroots
perspective, they create a partnership whose value can be greater than
the sum of its parts.
All too often, however, that partnership breaks down due to inadequate
communication (in either or both directions), limited management resources
at the local level, or turf battles over program ownership. To overcome
these hurdles, we're suggesting a National/Local Bridge that brings
these organizations together as a strong voice for your industry or
profession. The Bridge is an association management office that:
- Serves as the local headquarters for the each affiliate, providing
administrative and program services to local members;
- Serves as the clearinghouse and resource department for the national
association to its affiliates; and
- Serves as an objective, third party viewpoint in local/national
conflicts.
Do These Challenges Look Familiar?
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Problem
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Solution
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Poorly managed or under-producing volunteer-run chapters
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Offer professional management by Mariner to improve the quality
of service provided by the local chapter, free volunteers from
administrative responsibilities, and help align local chapter
efforts with national association goals.
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Distrust between local chapters & national leadership
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Use Mariner in its position as chapter management to build an
unbiased communications bridge between the national and local
organizations. Our extensive experience at the national level
will allow us to clear up misunderstandings that underlie mistrustful
relationships.
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National & local services conflict
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Conduct a member service audit at the local level to identify
conflicts and solutions, and develop incentive programs for chapters
to benefit from national services.
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National chapter department budget out-of-control
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Outsource some or all staffing and administrative requirements
to Mariner; consider sharing expenses with local organization.
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As fellow association executives with a combined 40 years experience
in association management, we've seen these challenges of building an
effective national/local partnership first hand. We have identified
solutions to help you turn these problems into real opportunities. Take
an hour with Mariner Management & Marketing to explore how the National/Local
Bridge can help you build a better partnership and create greater value
for your members and association.
