How to Decide What Membership Level to Choose From
Choosing a membership level for your industry association can be a tough decision. Which level benefits you the most, and what are the differences between each one? Let’s take a closer look at RAF’s membership levels and their specific features.
The Purpose of RAF
First, it is important for you to understand RAF’s mission. We advocate for independent contractors in the fields of mold, fire, and water restoration. We strive to educate small business owners on developments within their industry, as well as provide a voice for their rights and services. We empower independent contractors through memberships, connections, and advocacy.
What Membership Levels Does RAF Offer?
If you are a small business owner looking for an industry association, it is important to know what type of membership you desire. As with any organization, RAF’s membership levels vary in cost, benefit, and opportunity.
Our membership levels are as follows.
1. Active
Our “active” membership level provides the basis of benefits for the other 3 levels. Active members receive the following perks:
- Receive official RAF meeting invitations before publicly available
- Receive instant updates regarding the state’s legislation concerning your specific industry
- List your company in RAF’s directory
- Access industry-related documents such as marketing materials
2. Silver
In addition to all the perks an active member receives, silver members also enjoy the following:
- Receive discounts from select vendors
- Feature your company’s logo and contact information on RAF’s member page
3. Gold
Gold members experience the same benefits as both active and silver members, as well as these additional benefits:
- Receive discounts on RAF educational events and courses
- Present your services at 2 RAF meetings per calendar year
- Feature your company’s logo and contact information on RAF’s rotating link page
4. Platinum
Likewise, platinum members benefit in all of the aforementioned ways, but also in the following ways:
- Directly influence the organization’s direction by voting on the official board
- Consult industry-related attorneys for advice, contract reviews, etc. at no additional cost
- Present your services at 3 RAF meetings per calendar year
Which Membership Level is Right for You?
Choosing a membership level is all about evaluating your involvement in the industry. If you are content with where your business is, you may prefer the lowest membership. On the other hand, if you are trying to grow your small business into something bigger, it is helpful to receive as much extra marketing and education as possible.
If you aren’t sure how “deep” you are willing to go, it never hurts to start small and work your way up. Industry associations often whet the appetite of independent contractors because they are so beneficial and helpful.
Benefits of Holding a Membership
So, how exactly does joining an industry association benefit you? Whatever membership level you hold, you can experience the following benefits.
1. Connect with like-minded business owners.
Everyone needs connection, even independent contractors. Holding an association membership helps you connect with other individuals in your field. You can learn from one another and encourage one another.
2. Further your industry education.
Continuing education is extremely important no matter what field you are in. Joining an industry association allows you to further your education through meetings, conferences, reading material, and classes.
3. Encounter networking opportunities.
Industry memberships benefit new business owners in particular, as they often get you in contact with new clients. Learn how to network efficiently so you can grow your business.
4. Develop friendships with fellow members.
Last, but not least, develop lifelong friendships with fellow members from the same industry. Relationships matter in the world of business, and friendship makes work a little easier.
RAF’s mission centers around advocacy. Our purpose is to protect the rights and make heard the voices of honest, hard-working, independent contractors. We advocate for professionals in the mold, fire, water, and wind damage industry. If you are interested in becoming a member of RAF or have any further questions, call us today.