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By Nick Koerbin
In Australia, the aging population is not just a statistic but a significant shift that professional and industry-based associations must
address. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that over 4.2 million Australians are retirees, and in 2023 alone, 145,000 individuals
retired at an average age of 65.
However, within this challenge lies a hidden asset many associations overlook: their retired members' accumulated knowledge and experience.
While many associations accommodate retiree members, only some fully tap into the wealth of expertise these individuals offer. Here are some
ideas for engaging retired members.
π©βπ Mentorship Programs: Bridging Generations
Consider the unique value of pairing a seasoned professional with a young, aspiring member. Retired members possess a wealth of real-world
experience that can guide, inspire, and navigate the industry's complexities.
π‘ Content Creation: Leveraging Experience for Publications
Retirees can be a transformative resource for your association's publications. Whether they contribute by writing relevant articles, sharing
industry trends, or editing newsletters, their involvement can elevate the quality and relevance of your content. By tapping into their
wealth of experience, you ensure that your publications reflect a depth of understanding that can resonate with your audience.
π§ Advocacy and Representation: Continuing the Legacy
Retirees with a history of advocacy or representing the association on government standards committees can continue to play a pivotal role.
Their expertise in navigating regulatory landscapes and established connections can significantly bolster your association's efforts to
influence policy and standards, potentially leading to positive changes in the industry.
πββοΈ Volunteering: Time and Energy Well Spent
One of the most significant advantages of engaging retirees is their availability and enthusiasm. Many retirees have the time and energy to
commit to various tasks, from organising events to leading special projects. They often volunteer because they enjoy the work and want to
give back to their industry.
π Foster a Culture of Gratitude
Acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of retired members is essential. Providing certificates of appreciation and publicly
recognising their efforts can foster a culture of gratitude and encourage ongoing participation. This recognition honours their
contributions and inspires others.
Now, it is time to Embrace this Hidden Asset. π
Retired members are a valuable, yet often underutilised, asset for any association. By engaging these experienced professionals,
associations can enhance their offerings, bridge generational gaps, and maintain a rich repository of knowledge and expertise.
The association sector is in the middle of a leadership handover.
Across Australia and New Zealand, CEOs and Executive Directors are moving on. Some are retiring. Some have gone to larger organisations.
Some have left because the relationship with their Board ran out of puff. The reasons vary, but the movement is noticeable, and Boards are
appointing replacements.
The encouraging part is the calibre of the people coming in. Many are genuinely well suited to the job β capable executives with strong
records behind them. A good number are stepping into an association CEO role for the first time.
Most associations can provide a long list of membership benefits. They may include professional development, advocacy, networking, industry information, events, resources, accreditation, discounts and access to specialist advice. However, a list of benefits does not necessarily explain why someone makes the decision to join.
While every Board is different, the same governance issues appear time and again. One of the most common is allowing one personβs behaviour
to dominate the Board table.
Almost every Board has experienced it at some point. One director who seems to consume more time and energy than everyone else combined.
How we help membership based, not-for-profit associations now and into the future.
