Your First Year: A Checklist for Success You have taken an important step in your profession by
joining your local home builders association, and now you are also a member at
the state and national level. Now what? We’ve learned that what works and what doesn’t work during
the critical first year of membership.
Most new members would like to see maximum return on their dues
investment as soon as possible, but aren’t sure how to begin. Here are some tips we’ve gathered from
experienced NAHB members who can testify to the benefits of NAHB involvement. Define your
expectations: Why did you join? Was it to gain industry knowledge, enhance
your professional credibility and visibility, increase your sales, utilize a
discount, or influence legislation? Clarifying
what you want will help you develop the right strategies to achieve your goals. Get your essential tools free: NAHB and HBAM have a wealth of information. You can find it at www.nahb.org and www.buildingmichigan.org. Or call NAHB: 800-368-5242 HBAM: 517-322-0224 Network at a General
Membership Meeting: It’s easy to
make friends and build business contacts at a gathering of your industry
peers. You’ll also keep up-to-date with
what’s happening within the association, industry, and community, which is good
for your business. Read the local, state and national newsletters and
publications. You’ll learn about the
latest technology and industry trends, who’s who in the association and
business community, programs, services, discounts, and other benefits that are
available to improve your productivity and profits. You can also keep up-to-date with Nation’s
Building News, a free NAHB publication that you’ll receive monthly. Get involved in
association projects: Are you
looking to enhance your public image?
Donate your time and/or materials to our projects. Would you like to increase your business
contacts while gaining national recognition?
Get involved in membership recruitment and retention. Tired of burdensome regulations or have the
desire to affect change in local, state or national legislation? Join a Government Affairs Committee and be a
voice in getting policies changed. Attend special association events, e.g. education programs, home shows, and industry trade shows: You can pick up information at these local events that will save you time and money down the road - as well as enhance your image in the community. Learn what education programs are offered by visiting both www.nahb.org and www.buildingmichigan.org or calling: NAHB: 800-368-5242 HBAM: 517-322-0224 Have fun! The effort to get involved and take advantage of all the association has to offer is worth it - and you’ll even have fun along the way!
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