Tip Of The Day - 11/16/05 - Industry Association Question

Is there anyone who is a member of any of the industry associations - whether on a national level (PLANET), or on a local level (STATE ASSOCIATION)? If so, what made you join, and if not, why have you not joined? Is there something about the associations you feel is missing or does not cater to your needs or business?

 

Have not. The cost. We belong to many groups, political and social. None have the high dues as the Lawn Care Associations do.

 

Was a member of the PLCAA several years ago before they became PLANET, saw no benefits, seems like a lot of money for a few stickers. Same was true of other local oganizations I have belonged to over the years. I track all of my calls and really saw no benefit.

 

what do you really get out of joining other than a few stickers?

 

That's too good...(wiping the laughter tears from my eyes).

Want to be a part of them, but these orgs seem really geared to the "big" companies and forget their grass roots foundation. Expo was a prime example of that. If you weren't a big company, or a prestigious golf course, no one wanted to waste their time talking to you. Sad, but ok. Collectively, smaller LCO's continue to have a voice as well. Kentucky hosts were great though...had a good time.

 

There is no real benefit to belonging to such organizations in my mind.

What's the tangible benefit?

 

I'm not going to say I agree or disagree....but I will say that I feel that organizations in this industry do not give attention to the needs of its members - the true needs - like Dave says - no real tangible benefits.... I understand there is a certain level of satisfaction or pride tha comes with showing your direct affiliation with a professional association....if there was an organization or association that directed its efforts towards the needs of the members, lowered the price, and found a way to provide real, needed benefits then what?

 

Then they would have one heck of a bunch of members. And numbers means power. Power to really do some good for its membership. PR

 

Then maybe you'd have something worthwhile...............

 

Could it be Sean is think up his next idea of starting a lawn organization.

Gives us the benefits? Will it last longer that a year? How much will it cost?

How will it make us feel good?