As anyone knows who has tried to organise any sort of group, from a book club to the National Trust, from a scout troop to a business networking group, it is an enterprise fraught with challenges - acquiring members, involving members, retaining members, keeping the organisation focused, functioning and vibrant - none of this is easy. Brad Parkes has been involved with membership organisations at the highest levels for a number of years, and has developed a number of tried and tested strategies and approaches which, when applied, will help any membership organisation to flourish. A skilled and much sought-after speaker, Brad presents his ideas in a lively and attractive way, using a threefold approach - through the story of a young man, Billy, just starting out on his career, his boss and mentor Alex, and a cafe called Archie's; through case studies and real-life examples; and, finally, through suggestions, hints and tips to apply in order to a membership organisation successfully. It is Brad's great belief that membership organisations play an incalculably valuable role in providing individuals with a sense of belonging, a place and a purpose, and that, in today's increasingly fragmented society, it is crucial that membership organisations of all sorts and sizes survive and thrive.

About the Author

Brad Parkes has lectured at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, examined for the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers and facilitated workshops for Specsavers. Outside of his professional commitments, Brad has also become recognised as a prolific professional speaker and a communications coach, as well as a qualified Toastmaster. Since 2003, Brad has been involved with Round Table, holding a number of posts including membership and development officer on the national board from 2006 to 2008. In 2012 Brad joined the Membership Team at The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers, and 2013 saw him take up a post of Assistant to the Court - the equivalent of a board position in other organisations.

Reviews

'An interesting and insightful read.'

-- Cait Allen - Chief Executive, Round Table

'For me, Brad is truly world-class in the field of recruitment and retention of members in membership organisations, and this book sets out everything that anyone associated with any club at any level would need to know. This book is the gold standard that others will be compared to - its the mark of a champion. Dive in and enjoy the read.'

-- Leon Taylor - British Olympic silver medallist in diving, author and professional speaker

'This book is written in a style that makes it easy to read, and being centred on a main story made up of a number of anecdotes, stories and metaphors that allows the reader to explore their own reality and how the principles can be employed in their clubs or teams makes this a uniquely simple yet very effective volume.'

-- Dame Mary Perkins - Founder Specsavers Optical Group



Book Information
ISBN 9781909116290
Author Brad Parkes
Format Paperback
Page Count 160
Imprint Right Book Press
Publisher Right Book Press
Weight(grams) 276g