Financial Service Organizations

Stay abreast of industry issues, news and trends by joining financial service organizations
By Tai G., Writer If you own a company in the finance industry, you would do well to partner with financial services professional organizations 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, financial organizations may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with financial services organizations, remember the following:

1. Make sure the financial services associations you're interested in is credible. Check BBB 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. Exclusive, member-only offers and benefits include professional discounts for events and conferences.

Become a member of accredited financial services professional groups

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 service, product and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.
Try: The American Finance Association and The Western Finance Association both offer members full access to online tools and resources.

Take advantage of certification opportunities provided by finance 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.
Try: The Financial Planning Association offers a virtual learning center. The Association for Financial Professionals provides webinars, certification, seminars and study tools as part of their educational program.

Join finance 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.
Try: National Association of Independent Public Finance Advisers provides updated conference information for networking purposes. The National Association of Personal Financial Advisers offers a vast selection of finance conferences.

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