And for that, you need a “membership mindset” .

What’s that? It’s a commitment to treating every customer like they live next door , and will be knocking on your door every time they get frustrated or confused by your subscription.

Members belong and feel comfortable pushing back. They’re also loyal.

So instead of blindly hunting for new subscribers:

• Driving signups (at any cost)
• Launching freemium without a clear ROI
• Adding AI before fixing the subscriber’s journey

 

Try focusing on membership fundamentals that actually drive growth:

1. Customer Success That Drives Engagement, Expansion, and Retention

Don’t wait until members complain to support them. Proactive guidance helps them reach their goals faster, and that success becomes your growth loop. When members thrive, they stay longer and bring new members in.

2. Onboarding Flows That Establish Habits

Onboarding isn’t the finish line, it’s the starting line of your relationship. One of the most overlooked elements in subscription businesses, onboarding sets the tone for whether someone becomes a loyal member or cancels in month one.

3. Technology That Serves Your Strategy

AI, automation, and analytics are powerful but only if they reinforce your mission.

Before layering on new tech, ask:

Will this make the member experience smoother, more personal, or more valuable? If not, it’s just noise.

4. A Clear “Forever Promise” and Ideal Customer Profile

Your “Forever Promise” is the long-term value you commit to deliver, the reason members stay loyal over time. Pair that with a sharply defined ideal customer profile so you’re building for the right audience, not just anyone who clicks “subscribe.”

5. Transparent, Trust-Based Pricing

Pricing should reflect value, not confusion. When members understand what they’re paying for and believe it’s fair, they’re more likely to commit long-term. Trust is currency in the membership economy.

Culture isn’t soft. A “membership mindset” isn’t optional, it’s the foundation