The Art of Onboarding and Inboarding

In the world of exclusive clubs, where full member equivalent dues ensure the lights stay on, the heartbeat and legacy of the club extend far beyond mere financial contributions.

At the core lies the transformative power of onboarding and inboarding – a journey that goes beyond joining, fostering loyalty and, ultimately, securing the future.

Properly onboarded members are the lifeblood of a thriving club, showcasing their loyalty by actively participating in events and exploring all facets the club has to offer. Their commitment is more than attendance. It's a recognition of value, a testament to the club's significance in their lives.

Education becomes the cornerstone of sustained success. From understanding intricate bylaws to navigating club handbooks and leveraging online tools, the ongoing education of members proves pivotal.

This culture of learning, however, originates from the top – with board members serving as torchbearers of true education and knowledge.

Enter the membership director, the guiding force responsible for informing, educating and implementing the rules and regulations that define the club's essence. Starting at the top, these directors ensure that every member, properly onboarded, becomes a potential steward of the club's principles, evolving into future board members, ready to inform, educate and implement.

In an ever-changing landscape marked by unpredictable weather, economic recessions, stringent budgets, soaring food costs and evolving employment laws, the importance of such education becomes evident. The lessons of 2020, where pandemics became a stark reality, further emphasized the need for resilience and adaptability.

As country clubs flourish and face unprecedented challenges, a simple yet profound question resonates: Have you been properly onboarded, and are you currently being inboarded?

An educated and informed member emerges not only as a financial asset but as a custodian of the club's legacy, ensuring a prosperous future for generations. It is in this commitment to continuous learning that the club's true strength lies in weathering storms and shaping a legacy that transcends time.

In the dynamic landscape of country clubs, the first 30, 60, 90 days of a new member's journey prove to be fundamental. Research reveals that members who are engaged, informed and properly inducted during this initial period are likely to stay 10 times longer than a member who has not been properly onboarded. This statistic translates into a profound impact on the longevity and legacy of country clubs.

These unprecedented times have seen country clubs facing unique challenges, with waitlists stretching from months to years across the nation. Membership directors must maintain a consistent level of attention and detail through onboarding and inboarding processes. This commitment is the linchpin for ensuring the continued legacy, longevity and lifeline of our cherished country clubs.

Amidst the flux, new blood brings new measures. It's a period not just for recruitment but a strategic focus on retention and appreciation. Every member onboarded with care becomes a building block in the foundation of the club's future?

It's a time to relish the journey, witnessing hundreds of new families creating thousands of memories and contributing to the collective joy and happiness that our world always needs.

In essence, the onboarding process is not merely an administrative task but a vital investment in the thriving future of country clubs. So, let's embrace this amazing ride, celebrating the influx of new members and nurturing the bonds that will resonate for decades to come.

Fairways and greens!

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Jessica ". is director of membership at San Jose Country Club, Jacksonville, FL. She can be reached at (904) 737-9064 or via email: [email protected] | www.Sjccjax.com