If you own a company in the footwear industry, you would do well to partner with an apparel and footwear association 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, shoes organizations may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a footwear group, remember the following:

1. Make sure the apparel footwear 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. 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 shoe association

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: World Shoe Travellers Association offers a wide variety of benefits including discounts on products and services. The National Shoe Retailers Association benefits include business insurance and subscriptions to trade magazines.

Join footwear associations 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 Fashion Footwear Association of New York and the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America both offer an online calendar of events for educational and networking opportunities.

Pick a shoe organization with online resources and tools you can use

You can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your business by picking an organization that offers online access to member tools and resources. Many organizations offer newsletters containing up-to-date industry news on industry issues and trends. Additionally, you'll have access to a job center, industry publications and industry mentors.

I recommend: The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) offers a variety of industry resources, such as educational opportunities and AAFA publications. The Two Ten Footwear Foundation provides a listing of footwear industry links for your convenience.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're considering shoe groups for their online resources, look for one with an active forum where you can discuss issues with industry experts in real time.