Ever feel like an ant crawling through a landscape of larger service competitors? If so, consider this: The average anthill packs plenty of collective power, and when its residents gather in large numbers, they can send even the largest critter running.
Trade associations can give small businesses similar leverage, affording them access to best business practices and winning strategies. These industry-specific groups can also give independent service companies more
political clout
, which may be helpful whenever proposed local, state, or federal legislation threatens to harm them.
Here are five ways to boost the success of your service business by getting involved in a trade association for your specific industry.
1. Access to knowledge
. Odds are that someone, somewhere, in the industry has already discovered the solution to a problem you have. Service management workshops, product specific hands-on training, meet-and-greets, newsletters and industry peer groups create opportunities to share those best practices and fresh ideas.
2. Enhance your reputation.
Trade associations sort out bad apples through self-regulation, which bolsters the
reputations
of all their members. Professional organizations often award credentials and
certifications
, too, which can help to build consumer confidence in your products or services.
3. Make personal connections.
By participating in a trade association’s
regional chapter
, your company can gain access to potential new customers in your area.
4. Increase your purchasing power.
Trade associations often arrange for members to receive discounts on certain products and services that may address your key spend areas including insurance products, vehicle maintenance and parts.
5. Gain political clout and expertise.
Trade associations bring competitors together, turning one small voice into a persuasive, collective voice. This can be particularly helpful when independent businesses need to mobilize quickly, such as when facing proposed political initiatives that threaten the industry.
