During periods of high economic activity, businesses tend to subscribe to various publications and services. Challenging economic conditions often cause businesses to reduce non-essential expenditure. Some of the first items to be considered expendable are subscriptions. Not all subscriptions are the same and this article seeks to explore the value of association memberships.
Professionalism and credibility
Firstly, membership of respected organisations is an indication of the value that you attach to yourself and the service that you provide. Members of respected organisations are governed by a Code of Conduct and can be held accountable to agreed-upon standards. This fact gives peace of mind to prospective clients. It is noted that funders also prefer contributing to businesses that are members of respected organisations. Your membership of an Association with good brand exposure sends a message that you are serious about the service that you offer.
Representation
It is not always possible to represent your business on all platforms that impact your business. Recognised membership organisations establish capabilities to lobby on behalf of their membership with government, suppliers, and other key stakeholders.
Networking
The value of meaningful networking cannot be overstated in the business context. Well-established and respected membership organisations have a broadly represented membership and have the capability of bringing together a diverse range of entities and stakeholders that can positively impact business prospects. The ability to bring business entities together with prospective private and public clients and those with information for the success of your business is internal to a value proposition of a membership organisation. Social media networking has its place, but it cannot replace the opportunities afforded by local networking.
Education and training
A membership organisation should recognise the value of education and training and invest in the development of education and training programmes. Development events such as workshops and webinars are offered and valuable content for the benefit of their membership is provided.
Recognition
To be recognised by your peers for outstanding work and excellence shines a positive light on your business and has the potential of exposure to clients who seek service providers with proven excellence. Well-established and recognised membership organisations see value in hosting and sponsoring industry initiatives in their quest for brand exposure and partnering with relevant stakeholders.
Reflection
When negative economic conditions force you to rethink membership subscriptions, remember the benefits provided by your respected and industry-leading membership association.
Conclusion
Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal exists to represent the interests of members and provide them with specialist support services to assist in the successful running of their businesses. It prides itself in being the voice of the KwaZulu-Natal construction industry, representing the interest of its members through effective lobbying and advocacy, promoting best practices, skills development and construction excellence by providing relevant services and a diverse range of business solutions; thereby creating an empowering and enabling environment for the sustainability of the construction industry.
The Association is further involved in a range of activities and services which complement its core operations.
These include:
- Building and contractual advice and assistance
- Occupational Health and safety consulting
- Mediation and dispute resolution
- Fund administration
- Conference facilities
- Café Indaba
- Print Studio
- Occupational Health Clinic
- Property portfolio
- Training academy
- Recruitment agency
- Business Support Consultancy
Contact your membership manager to ensure your continued and enhanced utilisation of the Association’s services.
Victor Smith
Membership Manager
