Successful business owners know that information is key to growing and sustaining a business. The value of access to industry research and best practices is the most important benefit of belonging to an association according to one study. In fact, 53% of respondents listed industry information as a top 10 benefit – more than training (48%) or advocacy (45%).
Association staff has access to research, experts and resources that members may not have. Being able to provide data that can help members refine their business strategies or recognize new opportunities increases the value of membership. This information can be shared in a variety of ways: meetings, webinars, special reports, educational sessions at conferences and through association publications.
The Associated Builders and Contractors, Southeast Michigan chapter used its online news center to share information with its members.
While a number of industries struggled in 2020 due to pandemic restrictions and changes in consumer behavior, the construction industry was deemed an “essential” business in most areas so work continued. The question for all members of the Associated Builders and Contractors of Southeast Michigan was: What will 2021 look like?
An article on the association’s online news center attempted to answer that question with industry research and projections by experts that was specific to the industry and the area served by the association.
In addition to relying on experts and research data, association leaders can also promote knowledge sharing by having members share case studies that show how they solved a problem or overcame a challenge. While informal sharing that occurs naturally at in-person meetings and conferences cannot take place at this time, it is incumbent on the association to find ways to keep members up to date on industry news, stats and best practices.