HOW ASSOCIATIONS CAN HELP SMALL BUSINESSES

Associations as a whole not only have the practical dollars and cents services to offer small businesses, they also can be an invaluable advisor to business and supply the expertise to make this all work. They (especially the NJWMA) belong to not only statewide organizations, but national organizations and using these organizations to the fullest, they gather any/all information that could be beneficial to their members.

Most small businesses do not have the ability to be everywhere at all times checking out the latest available technology, products, laws, regulations both state and local but their membership in Associations for their industry, affords them this capability.

In addition to the above, you may still want to know, "why should I join and what benefit will I derive for my company by my membership?" Think about it. Where else could you:

• Attend learning seminars on a variety of subjects;
• Attend trade shows affording you the opportunity of meeting a multitude of tradesmen;
• Receive the latest information on new products;
• Save money on everyday services required by your company given only to groups only;
• Attend monthly meetings with your peers;
• Network at both a local and national level;
• Benefit from the operation of a liaison service between Federal agencies, State and Local Agencies, the Congress, and the industry as a whole;
• Receive a monthly magazine/newsletter keeping you informed as to what is happening;
• Have the ability to advertise at nominal rates and reach the entire membership;
• Socialize with your peers at annual conventions.

The list of benefits afforded to members of associations could go on and on.

Excerpts of this article were taken from an article printed by R.W. Elton, formerly Executive Vice President of the American Society of Association Executives.