Selling AFSA
Every chapter spends a fair amount of time recruiting new members, but has anyone really sat down and thought about what sells AFSA? What is it about our association that makes one person pay $25, and the next walk away?
Our association works very hard for each demographic, whether it is active duty, reserves, national guard, or retirees. What I have found to be most effective, is focusing on the hot-topics that matter most to my audience.
For example, when I am selling AFSA at the First Term Airman Center, I focus on pay raises and education, the quality of their dormitories and dining facilities. They need to know that membership has rewards, such as being able to state they are a member of AFSA when their first EPR is written, or their below-the-zone package. And if they take advantage of the volunteer opportunities our AAC provides, they will have a huge leg-up on their competition.
Conversely, our SrA and young NCOs at Airman Leadership School need to focus on setting a good example, meeting the intent of the Enlisted Force Structure, and staying informed so their Airman can and will rely on them for information regarding their benefits. They need to know that leadership opportunities exist in the chapter, and that any member can become the president, not just SNCOs.
You get the picture without me going on to SNCO, AFRC, and retiree topics. Just find out what matters most, and let AFSA sell itself. No one needs high-pressure tactics or glamorous stories, just the power of AFSA's impact on Capitol Hill!
SMSgt Bryan Thompson