A Look Into WAGBA’s Newest Initiative
As a WAGBA member, you may have been assigned a committee member who regularly reaches out to keep you informed and connected with all the association’s latest news and updates. For InTouch’s last edition for 2024, we explore WAGBA’s new initiative, the “Buddy System”, with Michael Warneke, Director of Permarinus Maritime Consultancy and WAGBA’s Vice President for Members.
What inspired you to create the buddy system for WAGBA and was there a specific challenge or opportunity you wanted to address with this initiative?
"The WAGBA Buddy System was created to address the need for better communication between the committee and member companies. Its primary purpose is to gather and summarize the “mood” of the members, allowing the committee to take appropriate action based on this feedback.”
How are committee members paired with member companies?
"Within pairing process in the WAGBA Buddy System committee members are linked to several "buddies" from member companies. These committee members reach out to their assigned buddies regularly to listen to their concerns and gauge the overall mood regarding WAGBA.”
What kind of feedback have you received so far from member companies and committee members?
"Feedback on the buddy system has been largely positive. Member companies and committee members have provided specific recommendations for improvements, indicating an engaged and thoughtful participation in the system.”
What kind of feedback have you received so far from member companies and committee members?
"Member companies should be encouraged to actively participate in the buddy system as it provides them with a direct channel to voice their ideas and concerns. This system ensures that their opinions are heard and considered at the committee level, potentially influencing WAGBA's direction and initiatives.”
What has been the most rewarding part of implementing this system?
"The most rewarding aspect of implementing the buddy system has been the feedback received, and the commitment demonstrated by committee members. This suggests that the system is fostering stronger connections and engagement within the WAGBA.”
How does the buddy system align with your vision for WAGBA's future?
"The buddy system aligns with WAGBA's future vision in two keyways. Firstly, it supports the organization's growth ambitions by providing a scalable method of maintaining close connections with an increasing membership base. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, it serves as a tool to understand members' needs and expectations, allowing WAGBA to enhance the value of membership continually.”
Thank you to Michael Warneke for taking the time to complete this questionnaire. We look forward to an even more seamless communication between WAGBA and all our members as part of Michael’s efforts.
