How Often Should a Chapter Actually Be Communicating?

If you’ve ever paused before sending an email or posting onsocial media and thought, “Are we doing this too much… or not enough?” —you’re not alone.

One of the most common questions chapter leaders ask is how often they should be communicating with members. And usually, the worry isn’t about being lazy — it’s about doing it wrong. No one wants to overwhelm inboxes, annoy members, or feel like they’re “spamming” people. At the same time, silence can feel risky too.

The good news? There is no perfect number. But there are simple guidelines that can help you stop guessing and start communicating with confidence.

The Biggest Myth: More Communication Means Better Engagement

Let’s start by clearing up a common misconception: sending more messages does not automatically lead to better engagement.

In fact, over-communication often leads to the opposite. When members receive too many emails or see constant posts without a clear purpose, they’re more likely to tune out entirely. Engagement drops not because people aren’t interested — but because the messages blur together.

Effective chapter communication isn’t about volume. It’s about clarity, timing, and relevance. When each message has a clear reason for being sent, members are far more likely to pay attention.

Email Cadence: What's Reasonable for a Chapter?

Email is still the most reliable way to reach your members,which is why getting the cadence right matters.

Regular Chapter Emails

For most chapters, a solid baseline is:

• One to two emails per month for general chapter updates

These emails might include:

• Upcoming events or meetings
• Important deadlines or reminders
• Announcements members truly need to know
• One clear call to action

If your email has multiple purposes, it’s a sign it may be trying to do too much. Simpler emails tend to perform better.

Event-Based Emails

Events usually need more than one message — and that’s okay.

A typical event email cadence might look like:

• Event announcement (when registration opens)
• Reminder email (as the date gets closer)
• Last chance or registration closing email

Many leaders worry that repeating the same event information feels like spamming. In reality, people miss emails all the time. Repetition isn’t annoying — it’s helpful.

Social Media Posting: How Often is "Enough"?

Social media can feel intimidating, especially if your chapter doesn’t post often. The truth is, you don’t need to be everywhere or post constantly.

For most chapters, a realistic and effective goal is:

• One to two social posts per week

That’s it.

Good chapter social content includes:

• Event reminders
• Photos from past events
• Member spotlights or thank-yous
• Sponsor recognition

Consistency matters more than creativity. A simple, steady presence does far more than bursts of activity followed by long silence.

When Silence is Actually Okay (and Even Smart)

Here’s the part many chapter leaders need to hear: it’s okay to be quiet sometimes.

There are plenty of moments when not communicating is completely fine, including:

• When there are no upcoming events
• During holidays or seasonal slow periods
• Between major chapter initiatives

Sending messages just to “stay visible” often leads to filler content — and members can tell. It’s better to communicate less often and say something meaningful than to send updates out of obligation.

Silence doesn’t mean your chapter is inactive. It means you’re being intentional.

A Simple Communication Rhythm Chapters Can Follow

If you want an easy starting point, try this:

• Monthly:
  • One general chapter update email
• Per Event:
  • Two to three emails over time
  • Two to four social posts total

This isn’t a rulebook — it’s a framework. You can adjust based on your chapter’s size, activity level, and member preferences.

How to Tell If Your Communication is Working

You don’t need dashboards or advanced analytics to know if your cadence is effective. Look for simple signals:

• Event registrations are increasing
• Members reply with questions or comments
• Attendance remains steady or improves

If engagement starts to dip, resist the urge to send more messages. Instead, revisit timing, clarity, and whether each message clearly explains why it matters to the reader.

You're Probably Doing Better Than You Think

If you’re thoughtful about when and why you communicate,you’re already ahead of the game.

Chapter communication doesn’t have to be perfect. It justneeds to be:

• Clear
• Consistent
• Purpose-driven

Focus on sending fewer messages that actually matter — andtrust that your members will appreciate it.

Have question or need help getting started? Reach out to chapters@ampp.org. We are here to help!

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