GFWC clubs are made up of volunteers whose time can be limited. A solid communication strategy will help you deliver a unified message about your club and build outreach and connections with your membership and the public. You don't always have to post a lot in your communications, but consistency matters.
Before you create your communication plan, survey your members to learn how they prefer to receive information so no one feels left out. Most club members have email and prefer to get information fast, on their own schedule. In addition, some may need to receive information by mail or phone.
How can your club communicate?
Club newsletters offer an efficient way to communicate to your members about events and club news. These can be sent electronically and/or printed and mailed to members. Some clubs may post them on their website via a login. Clubs typically have a schedule for their newsletters (some are monthly and some are quarterly), a deadline for when content needs to be sent, and a dedicated editor who publishes the newsletter. Newsletters can be used to notify members of club meeting dates and locations as well as district/state/GFWC International meetings. They can also provide details for a club's fundraising activities, including a flier that can be printed and shared.
Websites offer a window into who you are and what you do for both your members and the public who may be searching to join, volunteer, or find funding. These should have a yearly calendar that is a source of club/district/state/GFWC International meetings and events. Websites have a webmaster who manages the website. They coordinate input with the club president and chairmen.
Social media has become a popular communication tool. You can post on Facebook, use Facebook Live, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, YouTube, X, and TikTok. It may be easier to choose one or two to start. Make sure your content is up-to-date, and you post on a regular basis. Always have someone monitoring the platform, especially on platforms where the public can post comments or questions. Social media is good for promoting your club to the public by letting them know when and where you meet and, if appropriate, that you are looking for new members. You can list club fundraising events as well as other events open to the public. It is also a good tool for thanking businesses that donated to a fundraising event, including photos of the business donations.
