Why Belonging to an Industry Association is Beneficial
The term “industry association” is often used both in and out of the business world. What is an industry association, and are there any benefits to belonging to one?
What is an Industry Association?
An industry association is an organized group of people who advocate (support) individuals within a certain industry. For example, leaders in the automobile industry may form an association to promote public appreciation for rare cares. Or, a group of activists may advocate for the rights of animals.
An industry association may promote an industry’s services, the benefits of that industry, or the rights of the individuals involved in the industry. It brings people together for one unified purpose: to advocate for a specific group of people.
Benefits of Belonging to an Association
Joining an industry association might sound cool, but why? Most people don’t see the appeal beyond having an organization to add to your resume. Actually, belonging to an industry association is beneficial for several reasons. It provides you with the opportunity to do the following things.
Further your education.
Many associations allow you to continually educate yourself on industry terms, philosophies, strategies, etc. If a certain job or skill-set interests you, joining an industry association can help you learn more and eventually move up in the field.
- Become certified in a certain field.
Along the same lines, industry associations point you in the right direction if you are interested in becoming a licensed professional. For example, advocates for independent contractors often have connections where individuals can go to become certified in mold inspection, home construction, electricity, etc.
- Receive networking opportunities.
Since an industry or trade association places you in contact with fellow advocates, it helps you make networking connections. If you are looking for a job or simply want to learn more about the industry as a whole, good networking is a beneficial tool.
- Advocate for your industry.
Remember, an industry accomplishes very little if individuals outside of the industry are not aware of its benefits and services. Joining an industry association means joining a team that isn’t afraid to speak out and raise awareness for a specific cause.
- Serve the association.
In a sense, belonging to an industry association is a way to “give back.” After all, the association speaks for you while providing you with an opportunity to speak for others. It encourages unity and helping hands among fellow members.
- Formulate friendships and connections.
One of the often-overlooked benefits of belonging to an industry association is simply the friendships made along the way. When one group of people works together for one central purpose, friendships are formed and bonds are established.
- Give back to your community.
Benefit your community by sharing the purpose of your advocacy with it. Few people would actively support something they did not believe in, so let your community know why you believe in your industry and why they should believe in it too.
The Mission of RAF
RAF’s 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.
The Restoration Association of Florida
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.