Retention is not just the frenzied reaction following an unanswered second dues notice. Instead, it should be a proactive culture of embracing members and engaging their passion to help them meet a need.

Keep in mind, each new Knight is looking for value from his council.

• First impressions are lasting – make him and his family feel welcome.
• Keep him active in charitable outreach and spiritual fulfillment.
• Create a path for him to become an officer or service program director.
• Provide a positive experience, which will keep him committed and allow him to build sustainable relationships with other members.

Know why he joined and what he expected; this is critical!

• Involve him in relevant programs that allow him to contribute in a worthwhile way.
• Replace aging activities with fresh events that capture his interests; be open to different ideas.
• Assign every new Brother a sponsor who closely monitors them.
• Understand why he joined. Not everyone enjoys meetings. Many members desire the brotherhood of service, some joined for the insurance, while others simply want to enhance their faith.

Assess your efforts periodically and make changes if the council isn’t fulfilling his expectations.

• Determine why things broke down and fix it. Where did you fail in meeting his expectations?
• Keep in mind that the majority of members in arrears weren’t kept involved and felt neglected.
  • In other words, the council does this, but the member was looking for that.
  • And remember, people use platforms other than email to communicate today.
• Don’t let when it’s time to pay dues be the only time he hears from the council.

If a Brother finds worth and meaning in his membership, the Order has provided him with a tangible benefit. He and his family will enjoy years of service and gratification and will eagerly recruit others to join. In other words, engaged Knights remain active and aren’t likely to fall into arrears.