THE ESSENCE OF MEMBERSHIP

In this third instalment of our 4Ms series, our focus shifts to a fundamental and integral strand of our organisational DNA -? Membership. Imagine that you are attending a party or social event, and there’s a certain class of people all dressed in a particular and identifiable attire. How and why did you notice this category of people? My best guess is that they must have been distinct and or stood out from the majority of those gathered.???

Also imagine an organisation as a vibrant, bustling city, each team member as a unique building, and membership as the well-cobbled streets that connect them all. For us, it’s not merely a roll call of names or listings on a payroll entry; it’s the vibrant pulse that courses through our corporate veins, forging a profound sense of identity and belonging.?

In a world that often celebrates individualism, Membership stands as a testament to the power of unity. For us at Moniepoint Group , Membership isn’t just a concept. It’s the invisible but palpable thread that weaves through every department, every project, and every interaction, connecting us in ways that go beyond titles and job descriptions.?

Membership embodies the idea and ideal that we are more than the sum of our individual talents and efforts. It harnesses the inherent power of the collective that is bound together by a common purpose and shared values.?

Best-selling Isreali author, Nir Eyal suggests that "we are a species that depend on one another... Humans have specially adapted neurons that help us feel what others feel, providing evidence that we survive through our empathy for others... We’re meant to be part of a tribe and our brains seek out rewards that make us feel accepted, important, attractive, and included."

Moving on, let’s explore the operationality of membership and also how it impacts our professional lives, our personal growth, and the collective success that we all aspire to achieve.?

Membership in action?

As I have reiterated, membership isn’t a feel good, buzz worthy mantra that we chant, it’s a living, breathing force that shapes our daily interactions, fuels our collaborative spirit, and propels us toward shared goals.?

Here are tangible ways to bring this fine concept of Membership to life within your organisation, club or community:?

• Inclusivity: At the heart of our commitment to Membership lies the powerful principle of global inclusivity. As a global and diversified workplace with members putting in their shift from different locations across continents, inclusivity isn’t just a concept; it’s a cornerstone of our identity. We foster an environment where every team member feels valued, heard, and empowered. It’s about ensuring that everyone’s unique perspectives and contributions enriches our collective tapestry and conversations at all levels. So ask yourself what systems do we need to put in place that can ensure that we have a plurality of opinions especially when we’ve got big decisions to make?

• Collaboration: We recognise that true innovation and success emerge when individuals come together as a cohesive and study unit. Imagine members of the Marvel Cinematic UniversewIron Man. Membership inspires collaboration at every level, from cross-functional teams working on projects to leaders engaging with their teams transparently.?Our Membership ethos is one of collaboration without hierarchy, where the spirit of teamwork is paramount, and the recognition of every individual's worth is a daily practice. It’s a testament to our belief that true success is a collective effort, where every team, working collaboratively, contributes to the vibrant tapestry of our accomplishments.?
• Professional growth: Our dedication to Membership extends to nurturing the growth and development of our team members. We invest in their professional development? and provide opportunities for learning, mentorship, and skill-building. Our Learning and Development Team acts as the compass, providing requisite guidance and advisory for everyone on this journey of growth. With their support, every individual has the opportunity to up-skill and up-tool, try something new and adventurous with a view to elevating their careers. The benefits are twofold; not only do our team members flourish professionally, but the organisation also reaps the rewards of a skilled and motivated workforce.??

• Open communication: We maintain open channels of dialogue throughout the organisation, allowing team members to voice their opinions, share feedback and contribute to our continuous improvement efforts. Even if you don’t remember anything that I have shared so far, never forget that communication is the lifeblood of Membership. It ensures that every team member is not just a passive observer, but an active participant in the collective journey towards success. By removing barriers to communication and embracing transparency, your members are empowered to contribute their insights and ideas, without fear of retribution which in turn enriches your community with diverse perspectives and thoughts that can lead in the right direction.?

Membership provides a huge sense of recognition. People want to be recognised as part of a tribe that’s changing the world. They want internal recognition from their bosses and peers on their contribution. They also want to be known to work for an organisation that has meaning and recognition. Here's another great tip that I'd like you to hold onto - recognition is the most valuable currency in the workplace. It's part of what has brought us this far as a business. Recognition is the tonic that allows an employee to build a personal legacy within the organisation seeing that it boosts the employee’s profile, and can result in greater day-to-day satisfaction and retention.?

When due recognition is given, your chances of reducing churn in the workplace receives a giant lifeline (organisational benefit) and the employee's visibility increases within the community, thus shining a light on talent and encouraging success. Employees benefit. The business benefits. That’s a win-win in my books.?

As I sign out from this piece, I believe that we should never do life alone and Membership is the adhesive that gives meaning to meaning and situates you in a space where you are encouraged to deepen your Mastery and be duly rewarded or compensated for it Monetarily as well as the intangible sense of satisfaction it brings. Membership is not only a privilege but also a responsibility - to one another, our clients, and to the future we collectively envision.?