If you own a company in the online banking industry, you would do well to partner with councils for online banking professionals to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from all company divisions, but all share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.

Becoming a member of the right organization opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, groups for online banking professionals may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a association for online banking industry, remember the following:

1. Make sure the online banking group you're interested in is credible. Check the Better Business Bureau or other industry accreditations.

2. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

3. Some organizations don’t stipulate membership for certification.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become a member of an accredited organization for the online banking industry

Although many organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional services, products and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: The Financial Services Technology Consortium provides networking and industry resources to members. The Consumer Bankers Association's membership benefits include industry alerts, conferences, survey research and educational opportunities.

Join an online banking council that offers a full schedule of events and conferences

Events and conferences are a boon to any business. They give you an opportunity to network and share issues with industry peers. More importantly, they give your company exposure within the industry, and provide you an opportunity to further your relationships with other businesses. Try and pick organizations with nationally-recognized events.

I recommend: BITS, an offshoot of the Financial Services Roundtable, and the Electronic Payments Association both provide an events calendar for educational and networking opportunities.

Take advantage of training and certification opportunities provided by councils for online banking

Progress stops for no one, and you need to advance as a professional by keeping your industry skills sharp and current. Take advantage of educational programs and tools to assist you and your employees in knowledge development and career advancement. Many organizations offer information on upcoming seminars, conferences, business development courses and other industry-related programs, in addition to industry certifications.

I recommend: PCI offers training for qualified security assessors (QSAs) and payment application qualified security assessors (PA-QSAs). The American Bankers Association provides self-paced courses and instructor-led online courses as part of its training program.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're considering an online banking association for its web resources, look for one with an active forum where you can discuss issues with industry experts in real time.