“Experience” is the name of the game in today’s landscape. Whether it’s the Employee Experience (EX), the Member Experience (MX), or the Client Experience (CX), everyone is focused on making interactions memorable. The buzz around experience isn’t just about satisfaction anymore—it’s about creating moments that matter.

Let’s start with the EX. Employees want more than just a paycheck; they want to feel valued, engaged and part of something bigger. A great EX means creating a workplace where people are excited to show up, feel heard, and see their contributions recognized. It’s the secret sauce that turns a job into a passion.

On the member side, people crave experiences that go beyond transactions. They want personalization, ease, and a touch of delight. Whether it’s a credit union representative who knows your name and offers tailored financial advice or an innovative digital experience that effortlessly guides you through budgeting and saving, these moments build loyalty and turn members into raving fans.

Speaking of fans, where are our basketball enthusiasts? I recently attended a Gus Macker basketball tournament, and the event was more than just a series of games—it was a community experience (and then some!). The energy, camaraderie, and sense of belonging were palpable. One of the sponsors, a credit union, was deeply involved, demonstrating how emphasizing experience can foster community spirit and engagement. Their support wasn’t just about visibility—it was about creating memorable experiences for everyone and embracing it to its fullest.

This is a great example of how credit unions, and other organizations, can lean into the experience economy. It’s not just about offering services; it’s about making meaningful contributions to the communities they serve. By creating experiences that matter, credit unions can build stronger connections and show their value beyond mere transactions.

So, what does this all mean in the big picture? It means that focusing on experience—whether for employees, members, or clients—isn’t just a trend; it’s essential. In today’s competitive landscape, the organizations that thrive are the ones that make every interaction count. They know that experiences are the new currency and that investing in them pays dividends in loyalty, engagement, and growth.

In short, the experience economy is here to stay. How are you making every member encounter an experience to remember?