Creating an engaging website for the Submarine Veterans Bremerton Base of the United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. is an excellent way to recruit new members and increase member engagement. Here’s a five-step plan to help you build a compelling website:
1. Define Your Goals and Objectives:
Before you start designing your website, clearly define your goals and objectives. Consider what you want to achieve with the website, such as recruiting new members, providing information to current members, and fostering a sense of community. Understanding your goals will guide the website’s structure and content.
2. Plan Website Architecture and Content:
a. Homepage: Create an engaging and informative homepage that showcases the mission and values of the Submarine Veterans Bremerton Base. Include a visually appealing banner image, a brief welcome message, and key navigation links.
b. About Us: Provide detailed information about the history, mission, and leadership of the Bremerton Base. Share stories and achievements to create a personal connection with visitors.
c. Membership Information: Offer a dedicated section explaining the benefits of membership, eligibility criteria, and instructions on how to join. Include a membership application form that can be easily submitted online.
d. Events and Activities: Highlight upcoming events, reunions, and community activities. Include event calendars, registration details, and photo galleries from past events.
e. Resources: Create a resource library with documents, articles, and links related to submarine service, veterans’ benefits, and community support. Ensure that these resources are regularly updated.
f. News and Updates: Maintain a blog or news section where you can share articles, stories, and updates relevant to your base and the submarine community.
g. Contact Information: Provide clear contact information, including an email address, phone number, and a contact form. Make it easy for visitors to reach out with questions or inquiries.
3. User-Friendly Design and Navigation:
Ensure that your website is user-friendly and easy to navigate. Use a clean and organized layout with intuitive menus. Implement a responsive design to ensure that the website functions well on both desktop and mobile devices.
4. Visual Appeal and Branding:
Choose a visually appealing design that reflects the identity and values of your organization. Incorporate branding elements, such as the Submarine Veterans Bremerton Base logo and colors, consistently throughout the website. Use high-quality images and graphics to enhance the visual appeal.
5. Interactive Features and Engagement:
a. Membership Portal: Create a members-only portal where registered members can access exclusive content, forums, and discussion boards. This fosters a sense of community and engagement.
b. Social Media Integration: Integrate social media sharing buttons and feeds to encourage visitors to connect with your base on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
c. Contact Forms: Include forms for inquiries, membership applications, and event registrations. Make it easy for visitors to get in touch and take action.
d. Feedback Mechanism: Implement a feedback mechanism, such as surveys or contact forms, to gather input and suggestions from members and visitors. Use this feedback to continuously improve the website.
By following this five-step plan, you can create an engaging website that effectively recruits new members and increases member engagement for the Submarine Veterans Bremerton Base of the United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. Be sure to regularly update and maintain the website to keep it relevant and valuable to your audience.