HOW TO SELL YOUR CLUB! By Peter Blades, Berri Probus, SA

Most people have heard of Rotary, Lions, Apex, and similar clubs but too few seem to know about Probus, therefore we set out to change that in our own area and hopefully gain some additional members.

Here is an account of a Probus promotion cum Membership Recruitment Day that was organised for the Men's Probus Clubs in the Riverland of South Australia and, as first timers ourselves, hopefully our experiences will point out what to do, what not to do, what should happen, but what can happen.

Well in advance of the day have a meeting of all those who will take part and discuss the details, making sure that the selected day does not clash with another local event unless you are lucky enough to be able to share the site with that event. Would other Probus clubs, or the local Rotary club, in the area like to take part?

Then make the initial contact with Probus Pacific with an outline of your planned approach and ask for their support that normally includes information leaflets, posters, balloons, etc.

Next step is to arrange the venue. Book early as there are many others trying to book positions and the numbers allowed are usually limited by law. When applying state clearly that your site will not be selling items, nor asking for donations, it is simply to show the public who we are and what we do. This usually leads to acceptance of your application.

Perhaps the best publicity for the event is by Radio and/or TV and again these must be contacted early as most require details for their free Community advertisements up to three weeks before the event. It would be great if a local member is prepared to do an interview but failing this why not approach your State representative as we did, but remember that they are volunteers so please ease their financial burden by at least offering to feed and house them amongst your members while they attend the event.

Having obtained all of these details ask Probus Pacific if they would kindly make an official approach for you with details for your free Event advertisement and also to state the availability of a local (or your State) Probus representative. Probus may also include media handouts and give details of a local member to contact. A few days later telephone the station to confirm receipt of the information and take this opportunity to arrange interview details.