A big thank you to our members who took the time to take the membership survey. Your comments, insights and opinions will guide us in the coming year.
We’re pleased to see that the vast majority of you think we’re doing a terrific job. That makes us feel great about the work that we do. Knowing we’re on the right track is important but it doesn’t make us better. Knowing where we fall short or what new ideas you want to see realized makes us a better organization. To everyone that offered constructive criticism or new ideas, thank you. After all, we’re here for you. When AIBA works for you, an apparently it does, it works for all of us.
You can read the entire survey including comments here: AIBA 2018 MEMBERSHIP SURVEY-SUMMARY. We’ve removed only the names and contact information to protect the privacy of members. Here are a few highlights:
98% would recommend membership in AIBA to other businesses. This is the strongest endorsement we could receive. Yes, please do recommend us and help us grow!
97% felt that our local business advocacy is important to absolutely essential.
75% of our members have engaged another member for their business needs. We not only talk the talk, we walk the walk!
68% of members said that our events are important to crucial.
36%, the single largest group, prefer to attend an event once a month. We often have two events each month to ensure that there’s something for everyone.
69% of our members have made valuable connections through an AIBA event. If you’ve never made it to one of our events, here’s the proof that you need to!
When asked about new plans, 70% want a members-only Facebook Group and 81% want a weekly deals promotion. We listened and will launch the Facebook group in January and the weekly deals promotion in the spring.
Of the various marketing methods that we use to market your business, IndieAustin and social media ranked at the top.
There were no surprises when asked about the obstacles facing your businesses. The top two were property tax increases and lease increases. These were closely followed by City of Austin regulations and finding employees.
61% said AIBA has benefited their business through the community of members. This was closely followed by 56% through our marketing and 54% through our advocacy.
We’re growing! 64% added staff this year and 59% intend to within the next 12 months.
73% said their revenue had grown in the last 12 months and 80% are anticipating growth in the next 12 months.
And we have winners of the drawing for three prizes. The Vortex Theater won a year membership in AIBA, End of an Ear won the membership upgrade and Slow North won the $50 Gift Card to Moonshine. Congratulations to all.