Painting organizations are important. In fact, the most impactful and effective ways to grow your business is to develop a good reputation and develop strong connections. Therefore, regular interaction with colleagues is important. Regular interaction with colleagues leads to learning, personal growth and career development. However, initiating and cultivating these connections can be an overwhelming task. Where do you find the industry experts? Information and access you need to build relationships and get ahead? The answer is painting organizations.
Painting organizations have access to an established support system. These support systems have experience colleagues who are motivated to succeed.
In addition, painting organizations very widely in their size and purpose. These groups gather together for networking events and career development. They can function to standardize practices, promote research, further education and update the skills of practicing professionals. Some organizations also award professional certificates and develop standard practices.
Therefore, painting organizations provide a powerful tool for furthering your business goals. This guide explains the benefits. Let’s get started…
Benefits of painting organizations
- Opportunities for networking
- Referrals and leads
- Resources and education
- Chapter meetings, events and conventions
- Analysis and insight on industry issues
- Lead generating services
- Discounted membership rates
- Discounted advertising rates
- Certification and educational programs
- Software and tools like time and cost calculators
Key advantages of painting organizations
Networking: Networking is one of the primary benefits of membership. It allows you to strengthen existing business relationships and forge new contacts. Additionally, you can attend meetings, conventions and other related events with like-minded professionals. Also, you can share ideas, ask for advice, and make lasting ties with peers and leaders in your trade.
Referrals & leads: Develop your referral network with active participation. Prepare to talk about growing your business and helping others with referrals and leads. For example, explain how connecting with you could be mutually beneficial to other members.
Professional development: Training and certification can help you increase your earnings and reputation. Therefore, professional organizations often offer certificates. Members can get these certificates for free or for a discounted rate. These organizations also provide access to mentors. Also, you may be in a position to become a mentor to someone else.
Education and insight: Professional organizations offer many educational opportunities. These opportunities help you keep up with the latest industry standards, regulations and best practices. Therefore, a section of your professional organization is devoted to updating members on the latest trends. They may include workshops, seminars, conferences, and even online courses.
Exclusive resources: Membership may include members-only access to industry resources. This can include contact list, message boards and databases. As well as a subscription to the organization’s magazine, newsletter and other publications. Members also often get priority registration for any event held by the organization – like conferences, demos and seminars.
Community involvement: Establish your reputation by giving back to your community. Many organizations coordinate socially conscious initiatives to support community efforts. You can also work to improve standards in your industry.
Types of associations
The association you join depends on the type of work you do. Therefore, do the proper research before joining an organization.
These organizations are a good place to start:
- Construction specifications Institute (CSI)
- International concrete repair Institute (ICRI)
- Professional retail store maintenance association (PRSM)
- Painting and decorating contractors of America (PDCA)
- National Association of industrial an office properties (NAIOP)
- Society of industrial and office realtors (SIOR)
- Sealant, Waterproofing and restoration Institute (SWRI)
- Building owners and managers Association (BOMA)
- Associated builders and contractors (ABC)
- Associated General contractors of America (AGC)
- Finishing contractors of America (FCA)
- Business network International (BNI)
How to choose an organization
Not all industry organizations are a good fit for you and your business. Therefore, consider these factors…
Mission: Every organization is founded on certain values and objectives. For this reason, make sure their mission aligns with your business goals.
Expectations: Effective membership take some effort. Therefore, read the associations bylaws to review the time commitment, financial commitment and other responsibilities of membership.
Influence: A well established organization has access to more resources and better name recognition. While a new organization gives you the opportunity to shape its direction. Decide what is most important to you.
Location: It is important to have access to a local chapter or office. Also, local chapters address local issues. Therefore, topics will be relevant to your area.
Publications: Information access is one of the primary reasons to join. For that reason, check out a publication to ensure they are sharing quality, useful information.
Events: Events are an essential part of making contacts. Therefore, attend an event. Additionally, find out if they are well planned and well attended.
Three pieces of advice or effective membership:
- Be active – Volunteer for a committee. Participate in discussion groups. Attend events.
- Be informed – Take advantage of membership resources. Stay on top of industry trends and ahead of the competition.
- Be a leader – Take initiative to help achieve your professional and business goals. Therefore, become a trusted and respected part of your industry.
Bottom line
Finding a painting organization is not an easy task. That’s why its important to do the proper research prior to joining. Once you find a painting organization that adds value to your business, you will see positive results.
So Amigos, do you recommend any other professional organizations? Comment below…
Also, check out Paint Amigo’s book recommendation on leadership below (Amazon affiliate links)…
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P.S. Download my free eBook The Profitable Painter. Click here.
