Societies that are Expanded and the new Needs they Find.

  Societies that are expanded and the new needs they find for their society. This topic came up on a sidebar at our board meeting yesterday.  When the society is 65 people and under, almost everyone can remember everyone and share tidbits and make all comfortable.  When a society reaches over the point and is reaching the 80's, 90's and above, one has to make some changes. We learned that a Greeter at the door is very beneficial to the society. It helps to make the attendee aware we know they are there. It helps the greeter to introduce them to other people who come in at that time so they can possibly mingle. What a nice way to start an adventure in genealogy this can be.

Generally, everyone is busy doing their own thing and not thinking about the new face at the door.  We were blessed when Ruth Himan joined our group and immediately offered to greet people to make them  welcome.  No we had not thought of that to seriously yet.  She moved into a different position. We did not fill this position again until it was brought to the board the earlier, new people thought the people coming in new  today should be greeted that way. Having stood at the door and greeted people at times I have managed to invite many in that were hesitate that  later became members. 

It is nice to get a phone call saying,   "Thanks for greeting me and making me feel welcome to your meeting." Yes, that has happened via phone and email.

So if your a large organization you may want to look at having an official greeter or two to meet the people when the come in.  It also helps sharpen the brain on the names of people and recognize them the next time you see them.

 A lot of plusses can come from this endeavor. You could even have people rotate being the "Official Greeter," so that more people get familiar with the many faces in a larger crowd. I would recommend a three month tour of duty for this position then move it to someone else. I also recommend two people if your over 100 people and they all come in at once.

It is nice to be noticed and it is nice to feel welcomed.