Pub. 1 2021 Issue 1

6 B enjamin Franklin once wrote, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” He was right, especially when it comes to practical knowledge. Gaining knowledge — useful knowledge — is a clear strategy for learning how to add value. That’s one of the main reasons why joining an association is a good idea. Done right, it is an investment in yourself and your future. You can find trade and professional associations with a local, state or national presence. You might even want to consider belonging to more than one; for example, you could consider a general association, such as the Chamber of Commerce, but you can also look for something specific to your industry. The federal government lists national and state associations; you can find them online. Enter “associ- ations” or “consumer trade organizations” at www.usa.gov; one of the resources on this website is the Consumer Action Handbook — Trade Associations. Another option is talking with colleagues or other people in your industry, and ask - ing them what they would recommend. Put some effort into evaluating any associations you think you might like to join. Check the event calendar and see what’s offered. Find some members, then contact them and ask them about their experiences. Yes, it costs money to join. Sometimes people think that’s a reason not to join. If you join an association and you don’t take advantage of the many benefits that are offered in exchange for that membership fee, maybe they are right. Membership by itself does not justify the expense. Fortu- nately, however, there is more to joining an association than a membership card. After you join an association, what are the main benefits you can expect? Read on. Educational Opportunities As mentioned above, an association’s educational oppor- tunities are probably the most compelling reason to join. If you want to know what the best practices in your in - dustry are, or the developing trends, membership in an association can give you a place to find out. You can learn new techniques, participate in training programs and conferences, and get written materials for yourself and (if people work for you) your employees. If attending national or international conferences is out of reach, you can still participate in webinars. Don’t forget the newsletters, either, JOIN — AND ENGAGE — WITH MTADA