Always be ready with a 2-3 minute ‘elevator pitch’ on the importance and benefits of Legion membership.
Former American Legion Membership & Post Activities Committee Chairman Randy Goodman of Georgia shares his best practices for membership recruitment and retention. View Q&A
If your department has invested in door hangers, get some and modify with your post information. You’re now ready to reach out to potential members even if you’re not face-to-face.
Work your post’s Expired Members listings that can be found under the Find Members in my Area section on www.mylegion.org.
Build and maintain a relationship with military installations. Refer to the publication Access Granted for details on how.
Build and maintain a relationship with the person in charge of veteran admissions and/or veteran student organizations that may be on college campuses.
Network with first responders, civic and community organizations, as well as other veteran service organizations to expand your pool of potential members.
Ensure that your post is building its brand
Send a localized version of the post’s CPR to the media outlets in your area, and that this same information is published in the post’s newsletter
Make sure your post is actively participating in at least one program, and that it is done WELL
Make sure your post is an asset to the community; inform them of your post’s programs, participation in parades, service activities, etc.
Be seen in your Legion apparel
Don’t narrow your focus to veterans in only one or two war eras. Any veteran may be eligible, but you won’t know if you don’t ask!