Due to new technology, social networking and competition, individuals have many options as to where and from whom they can obtain information. Consequently, associations, the traditional suppliers of industry information, are facing intense pressures. Gone are the days when members would automatically renew their memberships. IAEI is no different and we face many of the same challenges.
In order to grow our membership, we need the assistance of all members; this includes our chapters, divisions and individuals. I’ve announced a new membership drive campaign in which, for new members only, we are offering 18 months of membership for the same price as a 12-month membership (that’s six months of free membership). This is a limited time offer that expires on December 31. You can make a difference by sharing this offer with your friends in the industry who have not yet discovered IAEI.*
I recently read the book, Race for Relevance, 5 Radical Changes for Associations by Harrison Coerver and Mary Byers, which outlines what an association needs to do in order to stay relevant. Interestingly enough, we are running the race for relevance in the right direction. We will never cross the finish line as it will continue to move in a forward direction; however, we can do things to ensure we stay current and remain competitive in today’s market.
So let me touch briefly on things we have been doing to remain relevant.
• We are fulfilling our obligation to our mem-bers, to the electrical industry and to the general public to participate in code devel-opment, to provide premier education and to support the inspection process.
• We are developing a five-year strategic plan for the association, which includes strength-ening our business practices, community involvements, and member educationpractices.
• We are forging partnerships with other organizations within the industry. The most recent agreement is with ICC(International Code Council).
• Following our mission statement of promoting advocacy, IAEI has joined the Electrical Code Coalition in taking the position on early adoption of the NEC without amend-ments. This position is under great pressure from certain in-dustry associations, but the Coalition feels that both the industry and the public need a fair picture of the necessity of early adoption without amendments.
• IAEI has created a new Department of Advertising and Marketing and has commissioned the new director to create and implement a robust marketing plan for IAEI publica-tions, membership, training, and meetings.
• IAEI is enlarging its publication formats to include newer and more relevant platforms. We believe that all members will be excited and pleased with this forward move.
• IAEI will be ramping up its use of social media (Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn) to market and promote the associa-tion. I encourage you to use these tools. I am now tweeting multiple times a week. You’ll find me @DavidEClements.
• IAEI will be optimizing the development of the board’s insight into current technologies, broader target audience, and industry diversifications.
• Members will find easier password access to their IAEI ac-count information on the website which will interact seam-lessly with the IAEI store and IAEI magazine.
Although IAEI faces the same challenges as all associations, we are up the task. We are ready and willing to embrace our industry as it evolves and to make the necessary changes. As we continue to run the race for relevance, we will not forget to provide the services and products that our members deserve.
David Clements is CEO/Executive Director of IAEI
* If you need more information about this offer, visit our website or call Annette Thomas, director of membership and customer service.
