Dermatologist associations offer a slew of opportunities to put your business in position to receive positive recognition and increase sales. In addition to the members of the council who work within the dermatology assoc. in some capacity, you will have opportunities to meet and get to know other dermatology group members, including those who support the dermatology association.

Affiliation with dermatology associations provides lobbying and networking opportunities that can be immensely helpful to your own business interests while you support the industry. Membership in an association of dermatology often means access to information and contacts that can be important to your own company. Regional dermatology organizations offer even more opportunities to network with local business leaders in your community. Try a variety of methods to best utilize your membership in a dermatology group.

1. Expand your network through a dermatology association

2. Support the industry by participating in an association of dermatologists

3. Stay informed with dermatology assoc. publications

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

Develop business contacts in a dermatology group

Dermatology organizations hold regular meetings, seminars and conventions for members and interested parties. At association of dermatology events, as well as through various committees in which you can participate, you will have many occasions to socialize and network with other business people who support and work within the dermatologist group. The business leaders you meet could offer a number of trade opportunities for you and your company.

I recommend: The American Academy of Dermatology is a dermatology association that is made up mostly of doctors but welcomes affiliate memberships. The American Society of Dermatology welcomes the public and students as members too.

Show your interest by joining dermatology organizations

If you want to do business with dermatology group professionals and those who serve the industry, you will want to show your support while building relationships with national and local leaders. You often can do this best by participating in a dermatologists association with both your presence and your financial support.

I recommend: The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery has a number of committees and work groups and issue-oriented events that always need volunteers. The Dermatology Foundation supports research and raises money for a number of projects.

Keep your company in the loop with publications from dermatologist associations

While you may not have time to participate in a trade group or volunteer on a committee, you can take advantage of membership in a dermatology group through the myriad publications they put out. By keeping up with the reports and news in the industry, you can pick and choose which events will be most beneficial for you to attend while keeping updated on changes or news that affects dermatology organizations.

I recommend: The Society for Investigative Dermatology has a vast store of resources and publications in addition to events for member to participate in. The International Society of Dermatology is another group with extensive resources both online and through their publications for members.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Join a committee in your association of dermatology to develop closer relationships with others who could provide sources of business for your company.