Association Connect – The YGS Group

The Future of Remote Work Part II: The Employer Angle

Every association is different, and the solutions that work well for some might not be so successful for others. However, no matter what works for any individual association, the most important thing for all leaders to remember is that this transition to this new world of work will require resilience and flexibility.

Three Steps to Reinforce the Value of Your Events

As the events industry hits its stride in its effort to return to the “new normal,” associations are finding themselves evaluating their comeback strategy for live conferences and trade shows. The truth is, the best course of action may be to throw the playbook out the window. There has never been a better time to […]

Across the Ages: How Different Generations Feel About Remote Work

As attention shifts to the future of workplaces post-pandemic, many workers have reservations about a return to the old routine.

Say Hello to Your Account Manager

You know they nurture long-term relationships, but do you know what makes your account manager stand out from the rest?

Association Publication Trends for 2022

Exploring 2022’s new and continuing trends in association publications and how associations can maximize their reach and the quality of their content in the new year.

YGS Gives Back During the Holiday Season

No matter the time of year, YGS is highly involved in several community initiatives, but the holiday season is undoubtedly one of the peak times of giving.

Why You Should Use a Single Team for Ad Sales and Event Sales

When it comes to ad and event sales, having a single media and events sales team managing both can be a key factor in your success.

Combating ‘The Great Resignation’

Utilize these tips to keep the question of “Should I stay or should I go?” off your employees’ minds.

YGS Responds to the Global Paper Shortage

YGS continues to serve its valued client partners with creative solutions for addressing the global paper supply shortage.

5 Reasons Why Your Association Needs Large-Format Digital Printing

Every association needs a way to market themselves efficiently. Even if you’re on a budget, a large-format print job can be an investment to get the traffic your company/association deserves.

Introducing YGS ClicBook

For many years, YGS delivered a digital version of our clients’ publications through a partnership with an external vendor—no more! Say hello to our very own digital flipbook solution: ClicBook.

A Publication Is Still an Essential Member Benefit

The value of an association’s publication is measured by more than direct advertising revenue; it is also a tangible and substantial member benefit with dividends that ripple throughout the association.

Key Considerations for a Better Booth Experience

As in-person events return to the association world, exhibitors have plenty to think about when designing a booth experience. Here are five factors that could greatly influence their success at the next big show.

The Results Are in: YGS Pubs Are EXCEL-lent

In recognition of their dedication to publication quality and excellence, YGS and its association partners received four AM&P EXCEL awards at a ceremony on June 16.

YGS Speaks at ASAE’s Marketing, Membership & Communications Conference

Craig Lauer, YGS director of content strategy, and Sam Hoffmeister, senior managing editor, shared insights on how to maximize the value of your content with association executives and experts during a 45-minute solutions chat. In this post, we share excerpts from our conversation and invite you to follow up with any questions or comments at [email protected]. […]

Avoiding 7 Pitfalls of Social Media Marketing

Knee-deep in social media setbacks? Here’s some advice on how your association can address, learn from, and avoid common issues.

Keep Connections Going

Let’s face it: We’ve all learned much more than we ever cared to learn about virtual event and video conferencing platforms over the past 12–15 months. Not all that we’ve experienced during that span of time has been for naught, though. Virtual events have given meeting planners the benefit of transitioning attendees from a general […]

Messaging Platforms Are Essential for Effective Content Marketing

Implementing a thoughtful, strategic messaging platform is paramount to reinforcing your value and engaging your audience in a way that makes them listen.

4 Surefire Ways to Understand Your Members’ Needs

Understanding exactly what your members need is key to building a strong membership. These four methods will help you gain greater knowledge about your people and how to better engage them.

Tactful Blogging: Implementing Keywords and SEO for Engagement and Conversion

When devising your content marketing plan and blog schedule, it’s important to be strategic about blog topics.

Lifetime Membership Boosts Revenue Beyond Dues

When it comes to welcoming new members to your association, it can be easy to focus on getting that first dues payment. But a smarter way to think about it is to consider the value over the entire lifetime of membership. This metric is called lifetime value (LTV). How to Calculate Lifetime Value The traditional […]

EXCEL Award Win Inspires Us to Think Bigger and Bolder

NAESP and Crayola have collaborated for nine years to support art-infused education through the Champion Creatively Alive Children Grant. The grant program provided funding annually to 20 schools so they could implement an innovative program that would increase arts integration across multiple subjects and teach children the four Cs: communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. […]

5 Metrics to Watch During Your Next Membership Marketing Campaign

Learn from the results and make adjustments as you go along. Then apply your learnings to the next marketing effort.

Maximizing Membership Marketing ROI Starts With Digital

Now is the time to invest in affordable membership marketing.

Is Your Code of Ethics Up to Code?

We are living in unprecedented times. Here are some tips for updating your code of ethics to best reflect that.

Going Back to Basics to Grow Membership

Reconnect with your core membership mission to achieve growth.

Create a Learning Culture

If you genuinely believe that people are your greatest asset, resolve to make 2021 the year you invest in the development of your team.

YGS Achieves G7 Certification

YGS reaches another milestone to stay ahead of the curve for its design and print clients.

The Print Terms You Need to Know

By becoming more familiar with print terminology, you can better understand your options and communicate your needs.

New Year, New Event Planning Strategies

It’s not likely large gatherings of people will take place anytime soon, but 2021 events must be planned and budgeted. So, what should you do?

Data Segmentation: Organizing Information to Better Serve Members

Take your membership initiatives to the next level by segmenting, or categorizing, data about your members.

How to Budget Non-Dues Revenue for 2021

Budgeting non-dues revenue will be different in 2021, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less important.

The YGS Group Upgrades Digital Operations with HP Indigo 12000HD Press and Site Flow

The new HP Indigo 12000 HD Digital Press and HP PrintOS Site Flow automation solutions drive more sophisticated services and higher-impact print.

Now’s the Time to Consider Tweaking Your Paywall Model

Reconsidering your paywall could increase ROI for your association.

Guidance on Political Discourse in the Workplace

When opposing political views come together in the workplace, there is great potential for disruption and negativity. Here is some guidance on how your association can tackle this issue.

Focus Groups Can Offer a Window Into Your Association’s Future

Planned discussions, when done right, result in honest feedback that helps shape and improve your efforts.

Gain More Time by Using Association Management Software

Struggling with multiple spreadsheets and email lists? It’s probably time to consider association management software.

Blog Best Practices

Publishing blogs on your website is a great way to improve your organic SEO and connect with readers. But is it as easy as it seems?

Putting Others FIRST

YGS has always believed in the importance of giving back. Here’s a look at how, plus some tips for how you can do the same, even in a post-COVID world.

Pros & Cons of Using Stock Photos in Your Marketing

A picture is worth a thousand words…but what’s the value of stock photography to your organization’s marketing?

A Quick Guide to Getting Started with Video Voiceovers

Adding video to your marketing strategy can of course prove effective, but have you considered voiceovers to bolster your video messaging? A human voice can go a long way toward improving audience engagement.

5 Must-Knows for Marketing Follow-Up

Follow-up is crucial to your marketing campaign, but a fine line exists between being effective and annoying.

Making the Most of Cancelled Projects

That project you’ve been working has been scrapped? It doesn’t have to be a total loss and can actually work to your advantage.

Farewell, Fragmentation. Hello, Integrated Marketing!

When it comes to reaching your audience in an effective, cohesive way, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Planning Content in Ever-Changing Times

For many associations, the fall season means it’s time to plan content for the coming year. But how do you plan content several months in advance when the state of the world is changing so rapidly? Here are five helpful tips.

Boomerang Employees: How to Win Back Your Best Former Associates

Rehiring former employees is becoming more common. Find out how and why you should welcome these “boomerang” employees back to your organization.

Content Marketing 101

By offering valuable content through various channels, you can easily reach prospective customers and nurture rewarding relationships. Add to that a comprehensive strategy, and your content marketing campaign can set up your brand for ongoing success.

Into the Figurative Fold: 7 Tips to Train Remote Employees

Including firsthand perspectives, get the lowdown on best practices for remote training relative to every industry and employee.

5 Simple Strategies to Bolster Your Membership

Over the past year, associations across many industries are reporting a decrease in membership growth, so what can your organization do to re-instill confidence in your existing membership and attract new members? Here are five simple strategies to give your membership a boost.

What You Need to Know About Lead Generation Right Now

Lead generation is an important part of the sales funnel. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to make an initial connection with prospective clients.

Create an Event Exhibitor Advisory Group to Gain Necessary Insights

Now more than ever, understanding what exhibitors need from a virtual event can ensure strong partnerships and engagement.

Expand Your Virtual Event Revenue—Before and After the Event

Help expand the monetization of your online event with this list of potential virtual sponsorships.

The Power of Video to Get Your Message Out

Video expresses the emotional side of your story, in some key ways better than any other format.

Tips to Make Your Virtual Meetings More Professional

Now that we’ve gotten the hang of virtual communication, it’s time to take it up a notch.

Retargeting Pixels: What Are They and How Do They Work?

Retargeting is an effective way to promote your association’s offerings and gain non-dues revenue.

Is Your Site Built With Drupal? Get Info You Need to Know!

Learn what Drupal 7’s “end-of-life” means for associations—and how you can prepare.

More Than Just Award-Winning Design

YGS Senior Art Director Mike Vucic knows what it takes to create unique, stunning designs that not only exceed client expectations but also win awards. The latest example: a 2020 Charlie Award for Best Redesign, presented by the Florida Magazine Association, for the Florida Apartment Association’s (FAA) Multifamily Florida magazine. In just a few months, […]

All Signs Point to Safety

One of the best ways to communicate new safety protocols is to post eye-catching signage around your facility that guides employees as they adapt to this new normal—YGS can help with that.

The Power and Profit of Sponsored Content

Increasingly, associations are enhancing revenue by offering sponsored content within their magazines and other content platforms.

8 Essential Tactics for Attracting Younger Association Members

For younger people in the early stages of their career, membership in an association is more important than ever.

Excellence by (Re)Design

Now may be the time to revisit your content and design so your publication stays relevant, fresh, and engaging to readers and advertisers.

Expanding Your Print Publication with a Digital Edition

Create the best experience for readers, greater opportunities for advertisers, and a platform for sharing the most current information.

Workplace Reentry and Mental Health: What to Consider

As offices reopen, it’s not just physical well-being that employers must take into account.

How to Return to Work Safely

If you’re looking for a quick reopening guide for your office, check out this list of precautions to make your workplace safer.

Your Guide to Better Association Advocacy

Even if your association has a robust advocacy plan in place, there’s always room for improvement.

Introducing Our Newest Press

YGS’ new HP Indigo 1200 digital offset press dramatically expands our print capabilities.

Showing Next-Gen Members the Value of Your Association

Ensure the longevity of your association and the industry you represent by appealing to younger generations.

Tips, Tricks, Teams

If you’re in need of a great tool to keep your staff connected, give Teams a go.

Tips for Conducting Virtual Job Interviews

While the prep for a virtual job interview is similar to that of an in-person interview, there are a few key differences.

5 Ways Podcasts Can Empower Your Association

Popular and profitable, the power of podcasts is undeniable.

How to Be Heard in the Marketplace

At YGS, our goal is to be a trusted advisor for your top priorities, not just during this challenging time, but well into the future.

5 Pros and 5 Cons of Permanent Work-From-Home Policies

Consider the following advantages and disadvantages as you assess what’s best for your association.

Nurturing Diversity to Benefit Your Association

As working from home becomes the new normal and geographical barriers are removed, there is more opportunity than ever to cultivate diversity.

Our Teams, Our Strength

“My head is spinning.” I must have received more than 50 emails in the past month that included that phrase or something similar.

Staying Healthy on the Job—at Home

As the leader of your workforce, you must help employees navigate the current challenges, whatever those may be.

Publication Promotion Videos Can Boost Readership and Nondues Revenue

Publication promotion videos are the perfect opportunity to capitalize on already compelling magazine content.

Reducing Print Publication Frequency Can Be Costly

A number of our advertisers recognize the need to maintain their market and brand presence to be best positioned for recovery.

Essential ILMA

A letter from Holly Alfano, CEO, Independent Lubricant Manufacturers Association.

Onward and Upward

A letter from Jason Gamel, the President and CEO of the American Resort Development Association.

4 Tips for Creating Online Course Content

When laying the groundwork for online courses, content is king.

Keeping Employees Engaged While Working Remotely

With several months of remote work under our belts and no definitive end in sight, employees may need a lift. Here are some great tips to keep them engaged and motivated.

Building a Brand-New Magazine (During a Pandemic)

Collaboration between teams made it possible to launch an entirely new magazine during the pandemic.

Deliver Sought-After Stability to Your Members

At a time like this, receiving a favorite publication in the mail renders a
coveted semblance of normalcy.

Animals Aid Us Amid a Crisis

Our pets provide consistency and companionship in the cutest form.

Sustaining Member Dues Revenue

Some members are struggling with strained budgets and are being forced to make tough decisions about what expenses to prioritize.

Mental Health: A Necessary Priority for Your Team

Stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma—these are unfortunately becoming more common.

Are Your Email Messages CAN-SPAM Compliant?

Email marketing campaigns can be extremely effective, but there are rules to sending these communications.

See YGS Production in Action

Discover how we’re here to help you connect with your audiences through safe and compelling print materials.

Down to the Wire: A Relationship-Driven Success Story

The YGS content team has taken on several time-critical challenges to help deliver the most pertinent, informative messaging possible.

There’s Never Been a Better Time to Educate

There has never been a better time to educate your members and further position your association as an invaluable asset

Navigating Government Financial Aid

By now, you’ve likely heard of the 880-page bill known as the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the financial relief package signed into law to combat the negative impact COVID-19 has had on the economy, businesses, and individuals. If you have the time, by all means read it for yourself and try to […]

9 Key Questions to Ask When Considering a Virtual Event

Whether or not the COVID-19 crisis is over by fall, considering a shift to a virtual event might be a smart strategy.

Every Day Is Bring Your Child to Work Day!

Developed by the Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Foundation as a means to introduce children to future job possibilities, Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day falls on the fourth Thursday in April each year. This year was obviously a little different as many of us have brought our work home with […]