If you own a company in the life insurance industry, you would do well to partner with life insurance professional associations 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, councils for life insurance may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a life insurance organization, remember the following:

1. Make sure the association you're interested in is credible. Check BBB or other industry accreditations.

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

3. Many 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 life insurance professional organization

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 service, product and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisers offers member benefits that include discounts on products and services, educational programs and networking opportunities. Members of the MIB Group, Inc. are ultimately "beneficial owners of the corporation."

Join life insurance professional organizations that offer 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: The National Alliance of Life Companies lists upcoming conferences for networking purposes. The Association of Insurance Compliance Professionals provides an event search tool to upcoming events.

Opt for life insurance associations that offer awards programs

Winning awards from accredited organizations reflects positively on a business. Usually members have to be nominated for awards, but each organization has various requirements and expectations. You may have to be a member to enroll.

I recommend: The National Association of Independent Life Brokerage Agencies (NAILBA) sponsors The Douglas Mooers Award and The NAILBA Education Excellence Award. The Life and Health Compliance Association's award of excellence is the Don Edde Award.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Networking is a great business tool. Make sure you're stocked with business cards so you can market yourself and your company to peers at the next event of your council for life insurance.