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3.4. Motivation and recognition

An important part of your role is to motivate club members to learn about Rotary, get excited about Rotary’s work, and take action to achieve goals. Like you, club members are volunteers who value their time. Keep expectations reasonable and show appreciation for their efforts. Find out what motivates each member of your club to get involved.

Common motivators:

• belief that club goals/projects benefit the community and club and that goals are achievable
• social opportunities to connect with others
• career networking opportunities
• setting milestones and reporting on the milestones to show progress
• recognition of individual and team efforts.

Regularly assess if the motivators are working and make changes as needed.

One way to show appreciation for your members’ commitment is to recognise them with awards such as the Service Above Self Award, Rotary Foundation Distinguished Service Award, Service Award for a Polio-Free World, and Avenues of Service Citation. See the Awards page on My Rotary to learn more about these and other honours.

Make recognition events inspiring and motivational by:

• Inviting the governor to present the award
  
• Inviting family members to attend
  
• Photographing the presentation and sharing the images on your club website and social media
• Inviting prospective members

Your district may have its own awards for clubs or individuals; ask your governor or assistant governor. Individual clubs are encouraged to develop their own awards too.

How will you motivate members to achieve goals?