You spend a lot of time and energy getting visitors to attend your Toastmaster Open House. You crafted a great experience and engaged each visitor. (check-out: 7 Effective Ways To Connect With Guest)
Now what?
Emails:
Email is the number one direct channel in terms of daily use and preference for both personal and marketing communications, with 91% of people checking their email on a daily basis.
- Thank You Email. This is the simplest form of follow-up. First-time guest emails can easily be a template for use time and again. It’s always best, however, to personalize the email from week to week. Always address the guest by name, try to reference the meeting theme, and mention any upcoming events they might be interested in. Your guest thank you emails should go out no later than the next day after your meeting.
- Come Back Email. Send it a few days before the next meeting. You will see high returns in guests attending for the second time.
- Club Presidents Email.
Phone calls:
A phone call to a first time guests is almost always welcomed. It’s best to have someone with knowledge of Toastmasters contact guests. These calls should take place before the next club meeting. Don’t leave guests waiting for answers to questions they may have. Here you can provide an opportunity for a face-to-face which helps foster deeper connections to your club.
PostCard:
Sending an actual piece of mail seems rather outdated and boring when an email will do. While email and social media may be the easiest way to stay in touch with your attendees, they might not always be the best. Sending a handwritten note from time to time can still be a very nice way to stay in touch.
Social Media:
Social media is one way in which you can stay in constant connection with guests. You can directly recognize your guests, post photos and share future event information.
Social media can help your club meeting linger in the mind of your guest. This continued buzz and enthusiasm will provide a wonderful opportunity to grow your club.
Conclusion:
No matter how you choose to follow up with your guests, be sure to stay creative and active with your communications. Using a combination of the different methods above will provide a nice mix for your guests and not seem like spam.
Remember, as long as you show gratitude and provide value your guests will appreciate your efforts to stay connected.