Welcoming New Members: The Buddy Bag Initiative

Entry Details

The Buddy Bag initiative was designed to enhance the onboarding experience for new members of our chapter. Each new member received a messenger bag featuring our chapter logo, generously donated by one of our corporate partners. These bags were filled with thoughtful goodies, including books from recent speakers, information about our corporate partners, the chapter calendar bookmark and brochures from the National CMAA outlining the path to certification. This initiative has enhanced our chapter by: Creating a warm and welcoming environment for new members. Providing valuable resources that help new members integrate into the chapter. Strengthening connections between new members and existing members through personal, in-person interactions. Fostering a sense of belonging and community from the very beginning of their membership.

Implementation

Implementation involved the membership committee members meeting with each new member to personally deliver their Buddy Bag. This face-to-face interaction allowed committee members to welcome new members and explain the contents of the bag, making the experience more personal and engaging. The general reaction from chapter members has been very positive. New members expressed appreciation for the thoughtful gifts and the warm welcome they received. Many reported feeling excited about their involvement. The initiative has also encouraged existing members to take an active role in supporting new members, fostering a culture of mentorship and camaraderie within the chapter. Overall, the Buddy Bag initiative has proven to be an effective tool for enhancing new member onboarding, creating a lasting impression, and encouraging long-term engagement.