“What am I getting for my dues?”
It’s a deceptively simple question that can leave even the most experienced association leaders scrambling. Many associations provide essential services—advocacy, education, and networking—but when these same benefits are offered by every other organization, how do you stand out?
At Mercury Creative Group, we help associations uncover their essential value using the Mercury Method—a strategic process that combines brand strategy, design, and marketing. The result? Clear messaging, aligned teams, and the confidence to communicate value effectively.
Associations Struggle to Articulate Value
Most associations know they provide value. The challenge lies in articulating that value in a way that resonates with both members and prospective members.
Without alignment, different departments and leaders communicate the association’s value differently, resulting in mixed messages and disengaged members. This confusion often becomes apparent when members start asking, “What do I really get for my dues?”
The Mercury Method for Brand Strategy, Design, and Marketing
Here’s how we help associations through the Mercury Method:
- Brand Strategy: Define Your Ideal Member and Value Proposition
We begin by identifying your ideal member—those who align best with your mission and provide the greatest opportunity for growth. Then, we craft a value proposition and key messaging that reflects what makes your association unique and how it meets those members’ needs. - Design: Bring Your Brand to Life
Visual identity matters. Through logos, taglines, website journeys and identity elements, we ensure your brand reflects the value you’ve defined. Every touchpoint—from your web pages to your event materials—becomes an extension of your strategy. - Marketing: Communicate with Clarity and Consistency
Once the strategy and design are in place, we build a marketing plan to ensure consistent messaging across channels. We align your team with a shared understanding of the value proposition, so everyone—staff, board, and volunteers—can communicate with clarity.
From Uncertainty to Confidence
When associations follow the Mercury Method, they experience a profound shift—from uncertainty to confidence. With a well-defined strategy and clear messaging, your team will be prepared to answer any questions about dues or value. Your members will not only see the value—you’ll be able to show it to them at every interaction.
The “dues question” doesn’t have to be daunting. With the Mercury Method, you’ll uncover the unique value your association offers and align your team around it, giving you the tools to communicate confidently.