Why Joining Professional Associations Is A Good Business Investment

Do you belong to any professional associations relevant to your area of expertise?  If so, what do you get from your membership fee? There are associations for nearly every profession, niche or area of interest out there. Many associations have larger national or international groups, as well as more focused geographical, state or regional chapters to join. An association is a synergistic, collaborative group that can serve as a knowledge, marketing or referral base – and most have a shared cause or mission. However, most have a substantial membership fee and commitment to be an active participant. How is a business owner to know whether this is worth the investment?

BUILD CONFIDENCE & CAMARADERIE

For most people, the family is most important. But FEW entrepreneurs have true, sound business support within their family ties. Other than the occasional cousin who may be an attorney or aunt who may be a business coach – most people’s families are just that – A place to go to give and receive love… not business confidence or advice. Joining a professional association gives you a leg-up to create professional relationships within a like-minded collaborative group where you can build a sense of security and trust. Healthy association members support and help one another in reaching your professional goals.

Associations often sponsor events throughout the year that enhance your business skills and can allow you to connect with your peers. Members exchange ideas, advice, and resources. And – most often, associations need more volunteers. Most associations are always on the look out for members to volunteer – and if you do, those are instant ways to build your expertise and fill skills gaps that you may want to hone in your own business. Giving back to the association not only builds good karma, but it can be the greatest reward and benefit. Participating in forums, chat groups or discussion boards sponsored by the association allows you to share your expertise, grow your network, collaborate – and may even lead to more clients! If you are a service provider, I always suggest you build your Signature Program – and setting your sights on becoming a speaker offers you the opportunity to share your knowledge, build your content base and market your products and services. You can share “best practices” or new ideas, hear about key achievers in your field and also meet and brainstorm with others who are also looking to share and learn new information. (Click here to listen to my podcast on the topic – and get your notebook and pen ready!)

DEEPEN KNOWLEDGE & EXPAND EXPERTISE

Most associations provide access to valuable resources and information such as: case studies, articles, white papers and books written by experts in your field or area of interest. Also, major journal, magazine and newsletter access is provided as a part of your membership privileges. Other benefits may include seminars, training, workshops or enhanced certification opportunities for you. Often classes happen virtually so you don’t even have to leave your home. Adding your association logo on your website and business cards can be a great way to encourage prospects to select you over another service provider in your area.

Additionally, associations often sponsor events, and can even be a source for pro-bono opportunities that can enhance your public profile and offer you expanded exposure. You can receive scholarship information, access to publications, and awards for persons achieving excellence in their field.

Here’s an interesting poll that was done in one of my professional associations. When asked what the benefits of membership were, members reported the following membership benefits:

• Maintain my credentials/certifications through CEUs
• I can take advantage of discounts and coupons as a member
• I keep up-to-date with what is current in my industry
• I have regional associations, partnerships, collaborators and a referral base
• I have the opportunity to teach and mentor others
• I can volunteer and support the group
• Membership guarantees access to business development resources and mentors
• Group insurance is available to members
• Members receive valuable industry-specific publications
• I can use the membership to enhance my marketing
• I learn new skills from members, speakers, professional development opportunities
• I love the national and regional conferences
• I’ve found some of my best friends as a member of this association
• I’m able to brainstorm and mastermind with other members to share ideas and solutions that impact my business
• I have the opportunity to lead, learn and grow
• I’m able to earn new credentials and gain certification
• Membership allows me to securely and unapologetically raise my rates
• I am introduced to local business leaders and have enhanced my network
• I can openly share and receive referrals from other members knowing my clients will be well-treated and professionally handled.

UPLEVEL YOUR NETWORK: THE POWER OF ONE

Another important reason to consider a membership to a professional organization is to take advantage of other members’ resources and knowledge base. In my workshop: How To Convert Low-Cost Networking, I talk about the power of one great business connection and how that person can lead to endless referrals. Associations are comprised of people who are typically like you – in some way or another. When you have shared camaraderie and shared interests, passion, and professions, you instantly uplevel your referral base. You’re able to connect with opportunities and leads through other members. Often, opportunities that are the most prime, never show up to the outside market… but insiders always know. Being a valuable, valued association member gets you a back-room pass to some of the coolest opportunities, offers, and engagements. (Listen to my podcast: Cashing In On Low-Cost Networking)

YOUR SANITY ASSIGNMENT

What is one association you’ve been thinking of joining that would help you to further your professional and personal goals? What one step could you take this week to learn more about membership? Please share your thoughts in the comments below. And if you know other business owners who may benefit from this post – don’t be shy… Please share it with your tribe using the share buttons below!

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Welcome readers! If this is your first time reading my posts on LinkedIn, thank you for stopping by! I help overwhelmed entrepreneurs, women and high performers with ADHD align. It's time to enjoy life again. Coaching helps you clear the fog, design flexible framework, hack your focus formula and finish what you start. Adults, professionals, and entrepreneurs with ADHD find coaching essential to consistently exceeding goals. I'd be truly grateful if you'd share my work with your LinkedIn network to help others focus on what matters: you and a life-centered business you love!

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