What have your Associations done for you lately? 

Over breakfast at a recent GAM conference, a manufacturing executive leaned over and told me he cancelled his memberships in other associations to “double down” on GAM. He likes what we are doing for his company and the industry, and values the opportunities for many of his employees to participate in our annual program. He wants to commit more time and resources to GAM because he sees the value.  

Music to my ears. This is precisely the kind of response we’d hoped to get from members when we kickstarted the transformation of GAM last year.  

From revamped conferences to more and improved communications, to modified and new member-led councils focused on critical issues, to new service offerings like health benefits, to our proactive and innovative workforce initiatives, to our robust lobbying and government affairs presence (and I could go on), GAM is driving the value equation higher for members.  

Based on feedback, members and prospective members are noticing.  

While the attention we are creating is gratifying, it’s not lost on me that manufacturers have choices when it comes to associations. Chambers, community councils, professional groups all offer something. That makes the “association market” competitive, as it should be.  

When I worked for manufacturing companies, a key part of my job was to “shop” for associations. Those who had muscle, could get things done, could convene key decision makers, form policy, generate advocacy and move the needle for my companies.  

That’s why when I became CEO of GAM, I brought a mindset focused on creating the kind of Association I would want to join. One with obvious value, one I could concentrate time and resources toward.  

Within the Georgia association market, I know GAM has become more competitive. Our offer is more robust today than at any point in our 124-year history.  

So if you’re involved in other associations besides GAM, ask yourself this: “What have they done for me lately?”  

Have they improved their service offerings? Are they communicating efficiently and effectively? Have they made a public commitment to doing more and doing better? Do they represent the best interests of your company, your people and industry? Are they tackling the toughest issues? Are they advocating to protect your long-term profitability and operating environment?  

If the answer to most or all of these questions is “yes”, then hold on to your memberships. But if the answer is “no”, then consider directing more of your time and resources to GAM.  

We are dedicated exclusively to manufacturing. We direct all – not some – of our energy and resources to addressing the issues that matter most to the industry. And we are committed to the continuous improvement of our service offer to you.  

GAM is your answer.