So you've got a meeting place, chosen your topics and lined up speakers. Now you're wondering if your seats will fill. This is a very common fear among new groups. Here are some tried and true ideas for finding new members and making sure they come back!
- Childbirth classes – Be sure to let any childbirth educators know that you're having meetings and ask them to encourage their current and former clients to attend. Give them a schedule of your meetings and have them make an announcement at each class. Handouts are great! Use “Ten Questions to Ask,” by CIMS, with a note about your next meeting.
- Other professions – Like-minded individuals, such as lactation consultants, nurses, midwives, obstetricians, doulas, or prenatal and postpartum fitness instructors, are great places to find members for your birth network. They often have connections in the area and are ready and willing to work together to improve or expand upon local maternity services.
- Any place kids gather – Where have all the mothers gone? To the play grounds, mother's groups, parks and libraries! Never leave home without a notice for your group or your next meeting.
- Word of mouth – As you hold meetings people will begin to invite their friends, family, pregnant co-workers, etc. Then you see student nurses, educators, practitioners and more coming to network as well.
- Advertising – This can be costly, so do it wisely and be creative about negotiating for free or discounted ad space. Sometimes you can get a free ad in a local parenting magazine in exchange for writing an article for them on a topic that you are familiar with, another great way to promote your meetings.