Visit by District Governor Ken Robertson

At their recent meeting, Hawick Rotarians welcomed District Governor Ken Robertson and his wife Elizabeth. Ken's 'patch' covers an area from Falkirk through Edinburgh and the Lothians, the Borders and much of Dumfries & Galloway. His target: to visit the more than 60 clubs in that District at least once in his year of office, whether in person or by Zoom.

Ken used the acronym SMILE to get his message of encouragement across to members. Service to the community, membership, inclusion, leadership andenjoyment. He was complimentary about the ongoing work of the Hawick Club, and answered many questions from members. An unscripted response to one question demonstrated Ken's enthusiasm and passion for Rotary, and for the opportunities membership offers.

Vice President Jane Cox and Secretary Ron Smith thanked Ken and Elizabeth for coming to the meeting and wished them well in presiding over District Conference at the Robertsons' home patch of Cumbernauld next weekend.

Coincidentally, a recent analysis of the results gathered by surveys of Rotarians from 2019 to 2021 has revealed that a good and fulfilling club experience is considered necessary by members and is a key factor in their decision to continue their membership. So, what makes for a good club experience? Rotarians were asked what they liked and disliked about their club meetings. The five most prominent factors that they liked are: Friendship and personal interaction, Getting involved in the local community, Learning new things from guest speakers and discussing interesting topics, Well-structured meetings that start and end on time, and Leaders who listen to and engage members.

Between Ken's talk and the survey's findings, Hawick's Rotarians now know what they need to aim for!