New member onboarding processes vary from organization to organization. But one key tactic nearly all organizations employ is the sending of a new member welcome email. 

That’s really your first touchpoint with a new member, meaning your first chance to get them engaged. So how can you capitalize on the opportunity? How can you ensure your new member welcome email “gets the job done”? 

Below are few key elements you’ll want to include:

  • A personalized greeting – This one probably goes without saying, but remember: This person just paid to be a part of your organization. Be kind, gracious, and welcoming by acknowledging them by name. 
  • A sincere thank you – Sure, this member hasn’t quite done anything yet, but by paying dues alone, they’re supporting your organization’s mission. Thank them for that! 
  • A list of (or link to) upcoming events – The quicker you can get your new members involved, the better. Include a list of upcoming events (virtual events included!) and a link to learn more and register. 
  • Other benefits to utilize immediately – What other benefits can your new members take advantage of immediately? Is there members-only content they can explore? Is there a member directory they can browse? Suggest a few quick, easy ways they can get involved. 
  • A testimonial from an active, long-time member – Even though you’ve already gotten this person to join, a testimonial can help them begin paving their own path. (Every member’s journey is different.) This could be a testimonial about serving on a committee, or attending as many events as possible. You’ve already sold the membership; now sell the individual offerings within that membership. 
  • Contact information – Should your new members have any questions, be sure to include a key contact they can reach out to by phone, email, etc. 

Below is an example of these elements in action (in other words, an example of a new member welcome email, as promised):

Dear [new member’s name],

Thank you so much for becoming a member of [organization’s name]! We’re thrilled to have you on board and can’t wait to get to know you.

To help you get involved, here are a few events we have planned over the next couple of months:

  • [List of upcoming events]

You can view our full calendar of events at [link to event calendar].

In addition, we want to make sure you’re taking full advantage of all the membership benefits available. Here are a few other things to get started with ASAP:

  • [List primary membership benefits]

As [membership length, e.g. “four-year”] member [active member’s name] likes to say, “[quote about the best way to get the most value out of membership].”

Should you need any assistance or have any questions or comments about your membership or benefits, please feel free to email [primary contact’s name] at [primary contact’s email address] or call [primary contact’s phone number].

Again, we’re so thrilled to have you on board and can’t wait to get to know you better! 

All the best,
[Your name]
[Your title]

New member welcome emails are just the first step in onboarding your new members (effectively, at least). To get them more engaged, more steps need to be taken. A solid new member onboarding process is key. 

What should that process look like? Download our free guide below for a handful of onboarding MUSTS! 

Note: This post was originally published on 7/26/16, but updated on 10/7/20 for added value.