Cable television organizations are very popular because of the emergence of hundreds of new networks. Billions of viewers have turned on cable TV to watch original programming. Organizations offer small cable companies networking opportunities with peers, business-to-business advantages and educational training.

Cable TV associations in the U.S. serve as an educational forum, providing members and the public with information about the various issues affecting the communications field. They are a way to keep up with regulations and legislation regarding your industry. When considering a cable telecommunications association:

1. Prepare to pay annual dues to US cable TV associations.

2. Participate in as many cable TV organizations' events as possible to meet others and network.

3. Register for online courses, webinars and educational forum to learn the latest industry advancements.

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

Get involved in cable TV organizations by paying annual dues and attending events

Your cable company can do nothing but benefit from joining cable television organizations. They range from somewhat generic groups aimed at anyone in the field to specific associations geared toward a niche.

I recommend: Cable & Telecommunications Association for Marketing (CTAM) brings cable television marketing professionals together. CTAM offers members a variety of events and a job bank. Membership costs about $300 annually. Join Women in Cable and Telecommunications (WICT) by giving contact information, industry information and choosing a membership category. You must also choose a primary chapter to join, but can add others to your list. WICT is the largest and oldest organization serving women professionals in the cable and telecommunications field.

Network and take action through a national cable TV association

Cable industry associations bring together like-minded professionals with common goals and interests. The groups keep you informed about industry developments and legislation. Your company leadership gets the opportunity to network and learn from the 'big boys' in the industry.

I recommend: National Cable and Telecommunications Association is a US cable industry association that was founded in 1952, with the mission of giving members a unified voice on issues that affect the telecommunications industry. Register for industry events such as conferences, exhibitions and conventions. Texas Cable & Telecommunications Association (TCTA) represents members of the Texas cable industry. Subscribe to the newsletter by entering your company email and name. National Association of Minorities in Communications (NAMIC) works to empower members working toward multi-ethnic diversity in the industry. Register for events such as networking mixers, webinars and executive breakfasts.

Advance your company through cable industry associations

Most US cable TV associations offer professional development opportunities such as classes, certifications and seminars. They link you and your employees with industry professionals and resources you can't get elsewhere.

I recommend: Society of Cable Telecom Engineers (SCTE) expands your skills and technical knowledge through programs and services focused on technology. SCTE Virtual Classroom offers online learning with live instructor support. Each class runs for a few weeks and is comprised of pre-recorded presentations. Cable Television Public Affairs Association (CTPAA) has a series of video and online interviews, where advanced professionals share their insights and knowledge. CTPAA also has a forum, educational events and publications you can access.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Expand relationships you foster through US cable TV groups by hosting a mixer at your place of business. This will allow you to network even more, in a casual environment.