Membership in any Association/Organization is a Privlege!

I have heard many reasons why a licensed professional does not need to join their state or national association/organization regardless of for profit or not for profit standing.  You see the excuses are all the same.  Let me recap a few I have heard over my years of consultation with associations seeking to improve their membership:

1. Why do I need to join, you are already doing what needs to be done for me! 
2. I do not have the funds?
3. The Internet provides all I need to maintain my license!
4. Your association/organization is a "Good Old Boys Network"!

I can continue the many excuses but my message here is simply this:

The licensed individual who does not believe in membership will experience an episode in their professional work one day and then they will be the first to become a member.  Sad but so true, they will eventually join and for the wrong reason(s).  They want something from the organization in their time of need.

Don't be that individual who only joins an association/organization to get an issue resolved.  Join an association because it is a privilege to be a part of the greater good.  If your profession works together as a team so much can be accomplished, and so many achievements can be realized.

Associations/organisation's are in business to advocate and protect the profession they serve!  Without an effective association/organization  representing you day in and day out, there cannot be "you"!

Think about it the next time the competition attempts to amend your license, or institute guidelines that will impact the way you practice!  By then membership is too late!

Act now and belong to your respective organization - and begin enjoying the value that comes with the privilege of membership!