If you own a company in the industrial supplies industry, you would do well to partner with an industrial supply and industrial supply manufacturers association to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from across 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, industrial supplies industry organizations may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a industrial supply council, remember the following:

1. Make sure the association 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 industrial supply manufacturers 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 industrial supplies group

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: National Association of Manufacturers offers discounts and networking opportunities as part of their membership benefits. The North American Die Casting Association provides a number of membership categories with applicable benefits.

Join industrial supply organizations that offer 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: The American Brush Manufacturers Association, the American Foundry Association, and Associated Equipment Distributors all provide an events calendar for educational and networking opportunities.

Take advantage of training opportunities provided by industrial supply associations

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: The Tooling & Manufacturing Association offers a wide variety of seminars, courses and apprentice training programs as part of its educational program. American Machine Tool Distributors' Association provides the Certified Machine Tool Sales Engineer Program. The Industrial Supply Association offers a listing of manufacturer associations and distributor associations.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

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