If you work in the corporate governance industry, you would do well to partner with professional corporate governance organizations 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, professional associations for corporate governance may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a corporate governance group, remember the following:

1. Make sure the association you're interested in is credible. Check 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 corporate governance groups don’t stipulate membership for training.

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

Become a member of an accredited corporate governance council

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 National Association of Corporate Directors offers a variety of benefits depending on the category of membership. All membership options include discounted rates on educational programs. The International Corporate Governance Network provides networking opportunities as part of its membership package.

Take advantage of certification opportunities provided by corporate governance councils

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 Society of Corporate Secretaries & Governance Professionals provides online tutorials to learn or brush up on your skills. OpenPages, Inc. offers training you can tailor to your needs.

Find corporate governance associations that maintain active web forums

The forum on an industry organization's website can be a great source of support. Forums are a real-time communication opportunity. Any business with a question or concern can raise it in a forum and receive up-to-date responses from a variety of experts. Check to see that forum discussions have current activity before you join.

I recommend: The Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc. and Corporate Governance both offer a selection of forums for live industry discussion. When you visit Corporate Governance's site, check out the extensive corporate governance links page.

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 your peers when you meet with corporate governance and business organizations.