Data: Why Generations Join?
Associations Now
Younger and older generations join associations for different reasons.
When it comes to the benefits that professionals seek from associations, preferences change with age. A recent study of association members from software firm Abila found that jobs, training, and career advancement rate highest for younger members, while those in older generations value more good-of-the-order benefits.
Millennials
1981-1998
Job Opportunities
50%
Code of Ethics
47%
Credentials
46%
Training
46%
Networking
43%
Gen Xers
1965-1980
Industry Info
50%
Code of Ethics
48%
Credentials
47%
Networking
46%
Job Opportunities
46%
Boomers
1946-1964
Code of Ethics
48%
Industry Info
47%
Raising Awareness
37%
Credentials
36%
Networking
36%
Matures
1945 or earlier
Code of Ethics
48%
Industry Info
45%
Credentials
33%
Raising Awareness
33%
Socializing
30%
Source: Abila, “Member Engagement Study: Aligning Organization Strategy With What Matters Most to Members”