March April 2020

FOCUS NORTH March/April 2020

Charting a New Heading The MRAA’s reimagined Dealer Week conference was a master class in designing an unforgettable event. PG 5

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www.associationsnorth.com

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Focus North is published 6 times a year by Associations North 1970 Oakcrest Avenue, Suite 100, Roseville, MN 55113

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Phone: 651.647.6388 Fax: 651.647.6416 Website: www.associationsnorth.com Email: info@associationsnorth.com The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not reflect the opinions of Associations North. Editorial contributors in any area of association management are welcome. Articles accepted for publication are subject to editing

by Associations North.

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Staff Angela Kisskeys, Co-Director VP of Operations & Communications

CONTENTS

Sarah Kragness Education & Project Manager

March/April 2020

FEATURES

Sarah Ruzek, Co-Director VP of Finance & Education

a New 5 Charting Heading

Chris Villeneuve Membership & Office Manager

Leaders: 7 Advancing Fuel For ForwardThinking

The MRAA’s reimagined Dealer Week conference was a master class in designing an unforgettable event.

Mission

To advance and serve the association management profession in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Vision

+ Events: 10 Meetings In The Details Advancing

Recruitment: Moving Membership

Associations North, our members and their associations will thrive and grow.

In principle and in practice, Associations North values and seeks diversity and inclusiveness within the association management industry. Associations North advocates for and promotes involvement, innovation, and expanded access to leadership opportunities that maximize engagement across underrepresented groups in the Associations North membership.

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Advancing Diversity & Inclusion: Journey Forward The Importance of Diversity & Inclusion in the Association World

Board of Directors

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What’s CO-ing On?

19 Calendar of Events 20 Brain Power 24 Et Cetera 25 Spotlight: Member in Motion

3 Ways to Amp Up Event Messaging

Five Steps to Modernize Your Association’s Membership Dues Model for Growth

Diversity & Inclusion

Moving Forward Together

18 Conversations

Demonstrate Strength in Uncertain Times

8 Advancing Engagement +

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16 Advancing 15 Advancing Communications: The Essentials: Stay Connected

Invaluable Insights

Five Steps for Handling Workplace Conflict

FAQs Regarding COVID-19 and Human Capital, Tax Impact

Best quote or motto to live by...

Robbie Thompson (2020 Chair) Professional Liability Underwriting Society Mark Salter, CAE, ABC (Past - Chair) CFA Society Minnesota David Siegel, CAE, IOM (Chair - Elect) Builders Association of the Twin Cities

Angela Kisskeys Associations North

Justin Bieganek Mercury Creative Group

Success is doing ordinary things extraordinarily well.

Mary Detloff, CAE Engineering Alliance Minnesota

Human-kind – be both.

Janel Fick Global Management Partners LLC

Amanda Friedrich, CMP Visit Saint Paul

Challenges present opportunities.

Love your neighbor.

Clara Albert, CAE (Secretary / Treasurer) MN Electrical Association Sarah Ruzek Associations North

Be the change you wish to see in the world.

Chase your dreams - you might catch one.

The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

Maria Huntley, CAE, MANM Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians

You can only control yourself and how to respond in difficult situations.

Karla Keller Torp Minnesota Shopping Center Association

Work hard. Play hard.

Christi Kokaisel, CAE, MBA American Academy of Neurology

You’ve got this.

One day or day one…it’s your decision.

20 years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did.

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Moving Forward Together: Associations North Partners

YEAR LONG SPONSOR: AVEX Audio + Visual Helping during COVID-19 AVEX is a full service event company, whether the event is live, or completely virtual. We are currently offering special pricing on all web streaming products. We have erected a full production studio at our Minneapolis campus to give small groups a place to record high-quality video and audio with our team of expert technicians in a safe, fully cleaned space. During the stay at home order, AVEX is an essential business and will be available to those companies that have urgent messaging that needs to be streamed, either live, or pre-recorded.

What is special about working with the association community?

I can’t over- emphasize the importance of our relationship with Associations North. Associations North gives us the opportunity to better understand the unique needs of an association. Through our membership, we are able to build new and nurture existing relationships, all while supporting the collective mission of Associations North. At the 2019 Meeting Planners symposium, I personally grew a ton in my understanding of what Associations need from their partners, as well as grew some relationships by spending time with people, and connecting with them. The “Unconference” design of last year’s symposium was truly remarkable and like nothing I have ever experienced before. Simply not to be missed!

PREMIER PARTNERS

ADVANCER SPONSOR

INNOVATOR SPONSORS

ENGAGER SPONSORS

CONNECTOR SPONSORS 3

Fargo-Moorhead CVB | Kahler Hospitality Group | St. James Hotel | Visit Duluth | Visit Saint Paul

What’s CO-ing On?

Today’s Resiliency is Tomorrow’s Opportunity By the time this issue is complete and delivered to members, a multitude of changes will likely have transpired. Not only in how daily operations are executed but the delivery of information to members and, ultimately, how your association has adapted during these unprecedented times. We are reminded by the deep-rooted history of strength, purpose and support during difficult times in the association community.

We know the current situation has impacted members deeply and we are committed to listening, supporting and providing resources to help members come out stronger. The only constant right now is change and when we say change, it’s at rapid speed. What was daily is now hourly. Our yesterday was face-to-face meetings, committees, task forces, coffee conversations and member visits. Today is filled with virtual calls, online education and an unknown tomorrow. With uncertainty, we must embrace this time to be resilient and look for opportunities.

Creating Community In a time when social distancing and shelter in place orders are required, being able to see and connect with fellow colleagues (and friends) has brought much-needed sunshine to our days and allowed for fruitful conversations.

Associations North is focused on creating connections and community. Often the best and most timely answers to your difficult questions are answered by your fellow Associations North members. During this time, we have launched two virtual listservs for CEO’s and meeting planners. Currently these groups have connected over 100 members and helped association professionals solve some of their immediate questions. Find details at associationsnorth.com/listservs.

In addition, Associations North has hosted various web chats complimentary for members on working from home, event cancellation considerations and virtual meetings. We have used video more in the past two weeks than in the past two months. The silver lining? We now know more about this technology and the multitude of ways to engage, share resources and connect virtually.

Opportunity: Learn new ways to engage your members, create community and provide immediate connections.

Check out recorded web chats at: associationsnorth.com/COVID-19resources.

Remote Communication, Support and Leadership For many, you were forced into a remote work environment.

For others, this is nothing new and perhaps you were ahead of the game in setting up technology needs, policies and

procedures to work remotely. No matter where you land on the spectrum, this is an opportunity to make the most of the current remote situation.

Learn about yourself as an employee. How are you managing your time? Do you need routine and a daily work from home schedule? Have you identified your peak performance hours, how you are motivated, what you need from your team and how you prefer to communicate? Take this time to do some self-assessment and identify ways you can be a top performer from the office or remotely.

As a leader, there are a lot of unknowns, but the worst of times bring out the best in people – and we know the association community is full of the best. Learning and understanding the new demands of a remote work environment can bring increased effectiveness. Taking a more conscience effort to communicate, set direction and expectations as well as being flexible to new working environments can help boost performance and morale.

Offering support to employees during these highly stressful times while navigating work demands, possible children/ home life and anxieties due to fear of the unknown is critical.

How are you checking in with your team? What ways can you support mental health and wellness?

Opportunity: Take this time to test out your processes, procedures and team in a remote environment. Learn, tweak and identify how this work style fits into your operations in the future. Bonus resource! Free remote working style assessment at: bit.ly/2X2LDQx. We are in this with you and trying our best to serve, support and find opportunities in these challenging times. Our greatest resource is YOU, our community. TOGETHER we can learn, share, and come out of this situation stronger and more prepared. Stay safe, be well and don’t forget to smile. #StrongerTogether

Co-Directors, Associations North

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Charting a New Heading The MRAA’s reimagined Dealer Week conference was a master class in designing an unforgettable event.

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Over the last several decades, planning and executing engaging events has been a cornerstone of the strategic initiatives led by membership-based associations, utilized as both a way to advance policies and unite their members. If you have already pulled off a successful event in the past, how can you transform it into an engaging experience that attendees can incorporate into their own work all year long?

Through a recent recrafting of its annual conference, Dealer Week, the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas discovered that the keys to evolving a member event include doing your homework and assembling the right team - unified behind a central vision.

“We saw an opportunity to create an all-new, immersive experience at the conference, where it would feel different than before and give our members a rewarding and memorable experience,” explained MRAA president Matt Gruhn. “The whole strategy was based on every person on the team playing a role and being part of the process.”

To build the perfect event planning team, MRAA focused on its core components. They built the foundation on the organization’s expertise in delivering tools, resources and educational programs. The team added both up-and-coming and proven leaders in marketing, sales and logistics, helping to promote the event, strengthen partner relationships and execute a world-class event. This core team of 14 people successfully hosted an exciting, 1,100-person conference and celebration in Tampa, Fla., last December focused on fueling the success of MRAA’s boat dealer and partner members.

“MRAA focused on structuring Dealer Week on the eight phases of event experience: announce, attract, anticipate, arrive, enter, engage, exit, and extend.”

The expertise of the core team was only one element that contributed to the rebranded conference’s success. The team also conducted extensive research into what to look for in an engaging, innovative event experience that has left their members talking about the event long after the closing speaker.

Team members even attended several other conferences to see first-hand how other membership organizations created memorable, rewarding experiences for attendees and partners. They read books like The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact by Chip Heath and Dan Heath, and other articles on creating unforgettable events to help reimagine Dealer Week. Through it all, the core team focused on structuring the conference on the eight phases of event experience: announce, attract, anticipate, arrive, enter, engage, exit, and extend, a framework they learned at one of the conferences they attended.

MRAA also involved its board, young leaders’ advisory council, partners, and local Tampa dealers in a strategy session facilitated by consultant Velvet Chainsaw to provide valuable input and build on the Dealer Week vision the MRAA staff had created.

“It was a collaborative process from start to finish,” Gruhn said. “That’s what made it so rewarding: from beginning to end, the entire team created the vision for Dealer Week and followed through with flawless execution.”

With 1,300 member locations across North America, the MRAA used a unifying vision to connect its membership at Dealer Week and build excitement for the conference. Every detail was planned out – and then, more importantly, executed – by the entire team. Whether it was attendees congratulating the MRAA team during the opening reception, or following the call of the closing keynote speaker – a drummer – to go out and inspire others by passing out branded sets of drumsticks, every part of the conference reflected MRAA’s new, experiential vision.

As COVID-19 and social distancing has rapidly altered the reality of association conferences for the foreseeable future and individuals and organizations increasingly switch to virtual meetings, Gruhn says the important concepts of assembling the right team and doing your research still apply.

Thanks to modern technology, the MRAA team and vision remain accessible right at its members’ fingertips.

“The MRAA has always invested in technology, with a few of our staff members based in other parts of the country,” said Gruhn. “We already use live video meetings, webinars and an instant messaging system to connect with our staff and our members. The education and resources we provide are applicable everywhere.”

Whether it’s in-person or virtually over a plethora of devices, the MRAA strives to help its member boat dealers find greater success. To learn more about the MRAA, visit www.mraa.com.

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Advancing Leaders: Fuel for Forward-Thinking

Demonstrate Strength in Uncertain Times Bill Pawlucy, CAE and Bob Harris, CAE

Now is the time to demonstrate strength, leadership and strategy. Members expect to hear confidence and solutions from their association. Associations have always been resilient, during wars, recessions and crisis. Boards and staff should portray a positive, “can-do” attitude.

Position chief elected officer and executive director as primary, trusted communicators for the sector. Convey an authentic, reassuring message for members about steadfastness. Avoid posting old news, fearing members will find more reliable sources elsewhere.

Realize non-members may be visiting the association page to search for news and solutions.

Use the strategic plan as a platform.

Though it is a multi-year guide, focus attention on 2020 and how the leadership is making quick adjustments during uncertainty. Appoint a task force to work virtually and collaborate online to identify and address immediate needs of 1) members and 2) the organization.

For instance, less emphasis on summer conference and more focus on resources such as tech solutions, rumor control and support. Dues structures and billing cycles may have to be adjusted.

Transmit a confident message. As with all messaging, members may not read the details. Brief is better.

Repositioning In a conversation with association

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leaders in mid-March they said, “We plan to use our strategic plan as the platform for survival. We’ll emerge as a stronger organization.” Not all conversations have been so optimistic.

Some fear they will not endure the crisis.

“Our association has lost members and revenue. The situation puts us in a place where we may not regain relevance.”

Many will dip into financial reserves, wishing they had a minimum amount of half their annual budget set aside for an emergency. A few organizations still rest on history. Their website still boasts of being founded 50 or 100 years ago.

Now more than ever members will be asking about association value.

Guidance In organization conversations, four principles were suggested: Adapt – Maintain relevance by being responsive to members. Do business differently. Use technology and social media to conduct meetings, provide critical updates and deliver services.

Adapting to meet member needs is a non-negotiable item. How we serve members now will be remembered when it is time for dues renewals.

Some organizations will have to adapt their dues model. Offering waivers for hardships, accepting staggered payments and other changes.

Communicate – Associations are the trusted partners to members. Messages should communicate empathy and

understanding. Nobody knows the business sector better than you; step up to the plate. How strong is your message and can you stay ahead of the curve?

Members will find other news sources if the association is repeating old news or sounding weak. Check the strength of your messaging and reset it if necessary.

Lead – Portray the board and staff as trusted leaders. Communicate how the leadership is addressing challenges.

Convey confidence. Some associations are known to be slow at responding to market conditions. Now is the time to be decisive. The leadership should be listening to members’ concerns. Task directors with monitoring and reporting developments to the association. Ask task forces to develop innovative solutions.

Identify the leaders on the website, members want to know who is driving recovery. Plan to convene leaders frequently (through technology) to agree on deployment of resources and immediate needs. Facilitate opportunities to receive member input; don’t leave them in the cold wondering what their association is doing.

Strategize – Make changes to the strategic plan that address immediate needs and priorities. What programs, revenue and expenses need to be adjusted to remain relevant?

If the plan is full of fluff, hard to read, or a dozen pages, reformat to be an easy read for members. Let the strategic plan speak for itself with an easy to understand message from the association. Revise performance measures and realign committees to address the situation.

Strategize now to position the organization for a new environment.

Redeploy teams, make internal adjustments, take a realistic approach to the immediate future.

Doing nothing is not an option.

Advancing Engagement + Recruitment: Moving Membership

Five Steps to Modernize Your Association’s Membership Dues Model for Growth JP Moery, Moery Company

Does more than 50% of your revenue come from membership dues? If so, you may be joining the numerous associations that are now addressing taking a real good look at their business models this year by resetting their membership dues and modernizing their membership categories. Here are steps that you can take to modernize your dues models and value propositions.

Step One First things first, get your mindset right. What will help you focus on creating the optimum model for your organization?

It’s not just a dues review, it’s a business analysis. The way you tug or pull on your dues model, or a membership category, may affect the overall engagement that your members have with your association. There are three key areas that we’ve used in our reviews to come up with the optimum business models, things that the board of directors and the executive staff are willing to navigate to come up with a new system.

Step Two Begin the process with a quantitative review of your membership data. It will look like this: renewal rates by membership category, review of non-renewal data, and a look at the impact of mergers and acquisitions on your organization. Secondly, look at the distribution of dues by member company so you can see how many small members you have compared to the largest organizations and how they affect, and the percentage of, the overall membership revenue that comes into your organization. Then take a look at non-dues revenue participation to see the total business involvement in your association. This is really important with your allied members. While they may not be paying a lot of dues, they may be investing money into your sponsorship program and, as a result, they’re putting more money into the organization than the core members. You’re going to get a real good idea of your membership engagement.

The second step is to interview members in different membership categories in a series of face-to-face interviews.

The qualitative aspect of this is extremely important. This gives you the opportunity to find out what they value the

most from being part of your association, not what you’ve got in the membership brochure or the membership section of your website. What do they tell you that they value the most?

When you look at the major parts of your value proposition, are there things that these members don’t use or they don’t even mention? Find out how they decide which groups to be part of.

Step Three Figure out how members view your association and if they think they are getting a fair deal, or not. If your members don’t feel like they’re getting a lot of value, or they think that they’re paying more than their fair share, you need to reevaluate. It’s easy to do the math and come up with a revised dues model.

What’s more difficult is to see if members of your association are actually buying into that. Do they think it’s fair?

In some cases, these large members may be paying maximum dues rate but they don’t think they’re getting that much value from you. It’s better to know that before you walk into a board meeting to introduce a revised membership structure.

Step Four Find out how your association fits into the decision-making process of that company and how they view your organization compared to others.

Step Five Associates are often paying low dues but may be contributing significantly into your non-dues revenue. Creating new tiers with marketing opportunities within their membership category may reveal themselves through this analysis. I’ve found that new industry entrants may not have a category, or segments, that they fit into. It may or may not be worth recruiting them at an intense level and that information may reveal itself in this analysis. They may not bring in any revenue or engage with your organization. You need to rethink whether the juice is worth the squeeze in terms of going after them.

Modernize, adapt, stay relevant in your industry, and adapt the business model in a way that makes you increasingly valuable to your members. Develop a dues model that is modernized and reflective of the business realities of today.

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Advancing Meetings + Events: In The Details 3. Activate their inner expert.

3 Ways to Amp Up Event Messaging Dawn Wagenaar, Ingenuity Marketing Group, LLC

We get it. People are protective of personal time and often bogged down by work obligations. How do you entice them to take a break and participate in your great educational or networking opportunities?

Focus on the personal motivations of your members and communicate your desire to inspire them. Here are three ways to amp up your communications to personalize each member’s experience before and after your events.

1. Make them feel like a VIP. Isn’t it nice when someone makes you feel special? Recently, one of my team members asked to register for an event even though she wasn’t a member yet.

The event coordinator got back to her immediately and said he had simply gone ahead and registered her as a guest, no charge. Her personal name badge was waiting that day, and he took time to talk to her at the event, too!

To give people that VIP feel, use first names during the marketing and registration process. In your emails, ask if there is something specific they would like to learn during the event so you can tailor the content.

“Keep an eye on the room for new attendees. Follow up after the event with something that says we value your time and continued involvement”

You can still use automated registration or eblast tools, but make sure that first names are used in the email correspondence. Allow attendees to respond back directly to your emails for ease of communication. It may seem elementary, but customize the name badges and build rapport through another personal email just ahead of the event.

It’s surprising how many presentations are still lecture oriented with questions taken at the end. Instead, interactive presentations that include exercises, pair shares and Q and A time throughout a presentation will keep your attendees engaged and more likely to view the presentation as positive and beneficial.

“When your members create the buzz, it will attract more buzz - and attendance.”

2. Acknowledge them.

During your event, look for ways to acknowledge attendees either with a corporate shout-out or something personal like birthdays that month or work accomplishments. When people sign in, ask if there is something you can celebrate with them that day to fuel this networking and acknowledgment.

Keep an eye on the room for new people and make sure to introduce yourself.

Afterward, send a follow-up email that not only provides materials from the event and a heads-up on upcoming events, but also an incentive to sign up by an early deadline (swag bag, coffee card, etc.), something that says, “We value your time and continued involvement.”

For members that attend regularly, acknowledge their commitment to their careers and the industry by asking them to share at the event what they gain from participating. Post their approved comments on your social media channels. Even better, see if you can get video testimonials!

When members can participate and learn from one another, they perceive more value in networking and educational programming. Let them share their experiences related to the presentation topics. Include opportunities for member panels and online forums. Look for speakers who offer an interactive presentation style that involves your attendees.

One more tip: Invite your attendees to post their insights about your event on social media. Always provide a special hashtag so you can track their comments for the event. Some will post during the event, so have someone monitor your hashtag. To wrap up the event, provide a prize drawing for the best tweets or posts. Use those winning posts in future marketing!

When your members create the buzz, it will attract more buzz — and attendance!

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Advancing Diversity & Inclusion: Journey Forward

The Importance of Diversity & Inclusion in the Association World Arzu Alimohd, Ewald Consulting

According to the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Foundation, diversity and inclusion within associations can benefit the organization financially, help generate ideas and give the organization authenticity and an advantage compared to other organizations.

These benefits will only occur if the diversity and inclusion strategy is managed and effectively actionable. This can be achieved in a variety of ways — whether by a detailed plan, assignments to staff and volunteers, task forces, committees or a combination. The terms “diversity” and “inclusion” are very broad, so organizations must narrow their targeted outcomes – what are some communities that the organization would like to have participate or think would benefit? Does your board represent your member base? How can the association open its door to more communities or partner with other organizations for mutual benefit? Diversity and Inclusion has multiple layers within an organization — board and volunteers, staff, member base, workforce and more.

When associations talk about diversity and inclusion, there is usually an emphasis on diversity more than inclusion. It is beneficial to look at both diversity and inclusion when determining these goals and to not assume one means the other. They go hand in hand, but increasing a certain area does not mean all may feel included in the organization.

It is no surprise that each field is different in its diversity – age, gender, location, etc. — so the organization must look at not only its members, but the field to determine what to focus on. A common way associations can expand their community is looking at schools or educational programs that train in the profession and partnering with them; this can be determining a student rate for membership or event attendance to expose the community to the organization, creating a student competition, or teaming up with schools to host events.

It is also important to think about the organization’s target workforce and look to improve the field along with the organization.

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“The terms “diversity” and “inclusion” have multiple layers within an organization and are very broad. Organizations must narrow their targeted outcomes.”

A common misconception is because the field is not diverse, the organization does not have to be diverse; but there are ways the association can help diversify its workforce.

It is important to understand that being a truly diverse and including association is not a one-size-fits-all scenario.

Each organization must look at its field and determine its priorities. Diversity and inclusion initiatives are also never “one and done.” It is critical to consistently analyze the programs and reevaluate if needed. There is a lot to unpack with the terms diversity and inclusion when it comes to organizations — but be sure to incorporate the values of the organization, define the needs of the community, and then put words into actions and priorities of the association.

As D&I initiatives become a more frequent conversation in the association world, a forward-thinking organization looks toward embracing inclusivity and heterogeneity to truly thrive in the future.

Sources/Resources: • ASAE Foundation - Enhancing Diversity & Inclusion in Membership Associations foundation.asaecenter.org/research/diversity-and-inclusion • 2018 McKinsey Report - Delivering through diversity mckinsey.com/business-functions/organization/our-insights/ delivering-through-diversity

Associations North Diversity & Inclusion Toolkit associationsnorth.com/diversity

The North Experience: Embracing Virtual!

To our members, Thank you for staying connected...

Virtually!

We’re here for you.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Community Insights

Perched on the Banks of the Mighty Mississippi Overlooking the Mississippi, LaCrosse provides meeting attendees with the one of the most unique meeting experiences in the Midwest.

Undergoing a 42 million renovation to be completed in the fall of 2021, the La Crosse Center will boast nearly 150,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. The new pre-function and ballroom areas overlooking the Mississippi River will provide meeting attendees with the one of the most unique meeting experiences in the Midwest. Four new hotels within one block bring the total to 1,000 downtown hotel rooms paired with a vibrant culinary scene of 100 walkable restaurant and dining options in historic downtown.

Resting on the borders of Minnesota and Iowa, La Crosse County is the perfect regional meeting place for all your meetings and events.

Easily accessible by interstate highways, Amtrak, the navigational system and the La Crosse County Airport (accommodating flights from both Delta and American Airlines), your attendees will find getting here easy. The only difficult part is that they’re probably not going to want to leave.

During your event, the La Crosse area features endless adventure & entertainment. La Crosse offers visitors many wonderful concerts, river festivals coupled with natural surroundings make this the supreme spot for after hour’s adventures.

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Attendees and their families will enjoy fishing and boating on the Mississippi, the numerous hiking and biking trails, downhill and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, apple orchards, wineries and breweries.

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La Crosse, WI Connected to the La Crosse Center, the Radisson hotel has 169 hotel rooms inclusive of spacious meeting space to accommodate nearly any conference or meeting.

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With a short commute to Downtown La Crosse, and with three meeting rooms, the event center offers private meeting spaces, a restaurant and bar on-site, cozy lodging options at the adjacent Best Western Plus and much more.

Coulee Region Looking for a smaller, affordable meeting space? Don’t forget to ask local hotels, restaurants, and organizations for their meeting accommodations as well. With the six municipalities in the La Crosse Region, there is adventure and accommodation appropriate for every traveler’s needs.

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Advancing Communications: Stay Connected

Five Steps for Handling Workplace Conflict Regina Barr

You’re at work. You’ve been assigned an exciting, highly visible project. You can’t wait to get started. You arrive at your first team meeting ready to rock and roll. You take one look around and you immediately hone in on several scowling faces. Almost immediately, you are confronted, and a conflict ensues. Your excitement quickly evaporates as you realize you have your work cut out for you.

Sound familiar? Maybe not exactly this scenario but I guarantee almost anyone you talk to in the workplace has encountered one form of conflict or another. You may experience this conflict one-on-one or in a team setting. Not to worry. Conflict in the workplace is not uncommon, and in fact, in some instances it can be beneficial. That’s right. It can be worthwhile particularly if you can shift the conflict to make it work to your advantage.

Why does conflict occur? Typically, conflicts arise when expectations are not met in some form, when one party perceives a threat to themselves in some way, or through simple miscommunication.

“Handling workplace conflict is never easy but it is necessary if you want to be perceived as a strong leader.”

So, what can you do to manage conflict when it arises?

Follow these simple steps.

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1. Determine the cause. You can’t solve the problem until you are sure that everyone has a mutual definition of the problem and that everyone is talking about the same problem. Gather as much data as you can. Ask for information and be sure to involve the impacted individual(s) in discussions.

Ask “what else” questions to raise all of the issues and show a willingness to listen. Do not become defensive or personalize issues.

2. Collaborate on solutions. Use a “yes…and” response to focus and build on potential solutions. Avoid using a “yes…but” response, which tends to shift focus back onto the problem and away from solutions. Whenever possible, always engage key stakeholders in developing solutions. This will help facilitate buy-in when final decisions are made.

3. Provide alternative options. Whenever possible, provide choices. People tend to feel empowered when they are involved in the decision-making process. This will also help you in soliciting ongoing support and champions once the final decisions are made.

4. Communicate key decisions. Develop a communication plan that communicates the decision as many times and in as many ways that you feel appropriate. This might include meeting one-on-one with those involved, an announcement at a team meeting or an email announcement or written memo to follow-up. Be sure to involve your boss (and senior management or human resources when appropriate) to reinforce and support the final decision.

5. Implement solutions. Once a decision has been made, it is important that you be assertive in the implementation of that decision. When challenged (and do expect to be challenged) be calm, re-focus on the process used to identify issues and develop solutions, and be confident in the knowledge that you have done the best you can to resolve the situation. Don’t get angry or over-apologize as this will only serve to weaken your position.

Handling workplace conflict is never easy but it is necessary if you want to be perceived as a strong leader capable of getting things done. Avoid conflict and you put yourself on a path of manipulation and distrust. Handle conflict straight on and you will earn the respect of your peers, your staff, and your boss. Even more importantly, you will feel more confident and capable, no matter what situation you find yourself in.

Advancing The Essentials: Invaluable Insights

FAQs Regarding COVID-19 and Human Capital, Tax Impact Kim Orsolits + Chastity Wilson, CliftonLarsonAllen

In these unprecedented times, employers have to absorb information quickly and make decisions impacting their business, human resources, and communities. The business landscape is evolving rapidly as federal, state, and local authorities announce community action plans. Legislation will dictate many of the decisions employers make with little lead time.

These frequently asked questions were designed to provide general guidance related to your human resources function and the related tax implications of this Act. Every employer’s situation is different, and the particular facts and circumstances of your situation should be evaluated.

1. What is the Families First Coronavirus Response Act? Also known as HR 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act is legislation created in response to the coronavirus outbreak, which provides free coronavirus screening, limited paid leave time, expanded Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and greater unemployment benefits for individuals impacted by the coronavirus.

2. How does the Families First Coronavirus Response Act impact employers?

There are several areas in which employers will need to take action as it relates to their human capital and compensation for employees affected by the coronavirus.

Emergency Paid Leave requires employers to provide paid sick time of

up to 80 hours for full-time employees who need time off for the following circumstances: • Quarantine order by federal, state, or local authorities related to COVID-19 • Employee must self-quarantine as advised by a health care provider • Employee is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and is seeking medical diagnosis • Employee is caring for an individual who is quarantined • Due to school or child care closures, an employee is unable to work to care for children

3. What is a covered employer under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act? All employers with fewer than 500 employees are covered under this Act. The Act provides exceptions for employers of health care providers.

“Legislation will dictate many of the decisions employers make with little lead time. Employers have to absorb information and act quickly.”

The paid sick time benefits will be capped at $511 per day for the employee’s own care, and $200 per day to care for another individual.

Employees should be paid at the higher of the following:

The legislation allows the Department of Labor to issue regulations granting employers with fewer than 50 employees an exemption from providing paid benefits if it “would jeopardize the viability of the business.”

• Regular rate of pay • Federal minimum wage • Local minimum wage

4. When do employers need to begin paying employees these benefits required by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act? The Families First Coronavirus Response Act is effective April 1, 2020.

Part-time employees should be paid for the average number of hours they would normally work over a two-week period.

Paid Family Leave (E-FMLA) is for employees who cannot work (or telecommute) due to child care concerns related to the coronavirus. If a minor child’s school or care facility is closed, the employee will be eligible for up to $200 per day, with a maximum of $10,000 through the end of the year.

Employees are eligible for E-FMLA if they have been employed for 30 days.

5. Do employers receive a tax credit under the Act? The Act allows employers to claim a limited refundable tax credit that would equal benefits paid to employees for E-FMLA subject to the maximum per employee. There is also a credit for paid sick leave.

To read more FAQ’s on COVID-19, visit claconnect.com.

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Conversations: In Focus | Different view points. Different solutions.

What is one tip or a favorite feature of Microsoft Teams or Zoom?

Matt Doffing VP, Director of Marketing & Communications Independent Community Bankers of Minnesota

My tip would be to not feel like you are “overusing” these programs. The human need for face-to-face right now is essential, but as a Mom of a threeyear-old who repeats everything (both good and bad), it’s also important to remember to mute yourself when you aren’t speaking.

Ashley Wear Director of Events and Promotions Association of Residential Resources Minnesota

Zoom Tip: Utilizing Break Out Rooms for my team’s status meetings...but really the ability to mute everyone! Whiteboards are also working great for us so we can annotate as a group and save out the whiteboard.

I do a lot of collaboration between myself (website person) and Nicki Wareham (database person), the share-screen function used during a Teams call is very useful. We have so many new resources going live right now, we need to be able to look at things together and discuss in real time. This tool has allowed us to sit “side-by-side” during social distancing.

Stacey Caris Director of Events Minnesota Multi Housing Association

We’ve been using Microsoft Teams and have loved it.

It’s offered us a way to chat and share things like we would have by stopping into someone’s office or those “pop-in” meetings. This has also let us streamline our other communication channels and where certain information is shared, it’s opened up our emails to focus our work priorities and projects instead of a sea of reply-all’s!

Justin Bieganek Creative Director/Founder Mercury Creative Group

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Calendar Of Events: Mark It + Make It For more details and to register, visit: www.associationsnorth.com/calendar

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FRIDAY APRIL

+

21

22

TUESDAY APRIL

Virtual Marketing + Membership Summit At Your Desk 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

This two part series is for marketing and membership professionals who want to learn tools to manage content, engage with members, and to discuss current topics with peers. Learn tools to manage content in uncertain times, uncover ways to enhance member life cycle marketing with segmentation, drip campaigns, and channel testing, how to connect with members at different parts of their brand journey, better understand what supporters expect in return for their investment and more! Plus listen to a panel on today’s membership & participate in Unconference peer sessions.

WEDNESDAY APRIL

Webinar: The Foresight Imperative: Taking the Long View on COVID-19 and Your Association’s Future At Your Desk 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

In a time of a crisis, our desire for everything to “get back to normal” as quickly as possible is overwhelming, which makes it very difficult to consider the future. When our present danger abates, however, we will not just go back to our previous normal.

Upcoming Events April (virtual)

May (virtual)

15

Meetings Meetup Group

1

CEO Meetup Group

16

Communications Meetup Group

14

Webinar: Legal Considerations in Association Management

20

Webinar: Negotiate Like a Pro

17 & 21 Marketing + Membership Summit 22

Webinar: The Foresight Imperative: Taking the Long View on COVID-19 and Your Association’s Future

22

yourmembership Meetup Group

29

Webinar: Tips & Tools for Eye-Catching Marketing

30

Diversity + Inclusion Meetup Group

June (virtual)

July

9

Membership Meetup Group

14

Connections Cup at Topgolf

10

Diversity + Inclusion Leadership Program

15

Meetings Meetup Group

24

Advocacy Meetup Group

COVID-19 Notice: Check the calendar of events for updated details as we continue to monitor conditions and make updates as necessary.

19

BRAIN POWER Productivity During Pandemic

By: Merit Kahn

Today, there are a whole bunch of Americans working from home for the very first time. Here is what you need to know to make your workfrom-home experience productive during this pandemic.

• End of Game Press Conference: What worked? Celebrate wins however small. Review your own performance, what did you do well, what can you improve on tomorrow

1. Set aside up to 1-hour to clear a space for your home office.

Think practical, tactical work space. Desk, chair, light, computer, phone, power strip, phone charger, microphone, virtual platform like Zoom for video meetings, printer.

6. Minimize distractions aka people and laundry. Productive time is more important now than ever because part of your day will be spent in conversations about current events. It’s just what is going to happen. As for people in your home, everyone’s situation is different.

As best you can, set some boundaries about noise and interruptions.

2. Upgrade internet speed if necessary. If your cell phone doesn’t get good reception at home, figure out the solution on day one.

3. Make sure you know how to use video conferencing. This is worth a 1-hour investment of time. Get logins, passwords, watch a video tutorial. Now is the time to know your system.

4. Anchor your day with your normal morning routine. You are still going to work, you just don’t have to drive to the office. Shower. Dress for work. Makeup. You’ll feel more normal and it will come through in your communication that you are Open for Business.

7. Get some fresh air. The body needs movement for energy. Get up from your desk and open the door. When the weather is nice, take a call outside. You need a fresh air/move your body break. Take it.

8. Get accountability structure in place. If you use the more frequent team check ins recommendation, that may cover you, but... especially for entrepreneurs who work solo, you might need a partner in crime if you are not used to working from home.

5. More frequent check ins with your manager/boss/team. Here’s my sports analogy and recommendation:

9. Get enough sleep. Pandemic or not, home office or not... all the productivity tips in the world will be useless to you if you are not protecting your sleep. Not to mention, one of the best defenses to any illness is the body’s ability to rest.

• AM Daily Huddle: 15 minute pre-game to get into the right mindset • 1/2 Time Locker Room: What adjustments need to be made so the 2nd half of your day puts more points on the board?

10. Keep regular work hours. Shut the door to your home office at the end of your work day. Go do something fun, even if it’s not with a bunch of people while we all “camp in” for the time being.

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Virtual Marketing + Membership Summit 4.17 + 4.21

Participate in Unconference Sessions to get timely tips and advice from your peers!

Earn 4 CAE credits toward your CAE application or renewal.

If you are looking for marketing, membership or sales tools to help your organization grow, this summit is for you and your team!

Summit Highlights Include: • Tools to manage content in uncertain times • Enhance member life cycle marketing with segmentation, drip campaigns, and channel testing • Connect with members at different parts of their brand journey • Better understand what supporters expect in return for their investment • Dive deep with panelists to discover how they are providing value to their members during COVID-19

Register + Details: associationsnorth.com/mms20

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Et Cetera: Association Extras

WELCOME, NEW MEMBERS! Karleen Kos

Portable Sanitation Assn Int’l

Paige Anderson

Red Wing Visitors & Convention Bureau

Kyle Berndt

MN Multi Housing Assn

Teddy Busse

Shooting Star Casino, Hotel & Event Center

Haley Dauffenbach

Status Plus LLC

Haleigh Doyle

La Crosse County CVB

Sandy Garbrecht

MN Multi Housing Assn

Todd Ginter

Portable Sanitation Assn Int’l

Karen Griffith

MN Society of Certified Public Accountants

Ellen Guettler

Greater Public

Bobbi Hahn

Status Plus LLC

Merel Hartog

Status Plus LLC

Nick Landry

Experience Rochester MN

Andrew Leitch

Greater Public

Chris Morse

Greater Public

Emily Newberg

Portable Sanitation Assn Int’l

Emily Niemczyk

MN Multi Housing Assn

Corie Pel

Status Plus LLC

Hannah Peterson

Visit Duluth

Diane Riggs

Portable Sanitation Assn Int’l

Beth Ringer

MN Social Service Assn

Jessica Rislove

MN Society of Certified Public Accountants

Cecil Smith

MN Multi Housing Assn

Sarah Young

MN Society of Certified Public Accountants

CAE Exam Update + New CAE’s The CAE exam is moving to a computer-based administration beginning with the Spring 2020 exam. With the move to computer-based testing, candidates will have a two-week window to take the exam at one of Scantron’s testing sites.

Due to COVID-19, ASAE has moved the Spring exam from May to June 8-21. Learn more at: associationsnorth.com/CAE Congratulations new CAE’s! Heather Dawley, PMP, CAE, American Academy of Neurology, Joy Desmarais-Laz, CAE, Synergos AMC, Becca Stickney, CAE, Pique Consulting and Katy Stulc, CAE, South Dakota Chiropractors Association.

We are proud of your accomplishment and dedication to the association management profession.

In light of COVID-19 and reducing the spread of this virus, Associations North will be working remotely until further notice. We remain committed to serving our members during this time, virtually. Find updated COVID-19 resources at: associationsnorth.com/COVID-19RESOURCES Angela Kisskeys | 651-358-3610 | angela@associationsnorth.com Sarah Kragness | 651-358-3613 | skragness@associationsnorth.com Sarah Ruzek | 651-358-3612 | sarah@associationsnorth.com Chris Villeneuve | 651-358-3611 | chris@associationsnorth.com 24

SPOTLIGHT: MEMBER IN MOTION Get to know industry movers and shakers.

Andrew Leitch VP of Operations Greater Public

Your biggest pet peeve with modern technology?

All the project management and collaboration tools we use are integrated –so I get three emails every time anything happens!

How I recharge and relax...

Lately I’ve been wandering around my neighborhood while listening to audiobooks.

One thing everyone must do once in their life...

Whitewater rafting is amazing rush – highly recommend.

What is one thing you’re glad you tried but would never do again?

I once tasted durian, which is supposedly the world’s smelliest fruit. Would not recommend.

I’d like to max out my credit card at...

For some reason, I lose all common sense when I walk into REI.

Your personality in one word?

Dry.

Favorite book, blog or podcast?

Being in the public radio business, I think I could get in trouble for picking a “favorite” podcast, but I would say that Invisibilia is consistently excellent.

25

Words to live by…

Luxuries tend to become necessities and spawn obligations.

SALARY SURVEY TOOL Online compensation benchmarking reports for professional, trade and service centric nonprofits.

2020 participating associations will receive FREE access to all data reports through December 31, 2020. Enter your data by April 17! associationsnorth.com/realtimecomp

24/7/365 access to HR data

Customized reports relevant to your organization

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