Your First Year: A Ten Step 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?

  Over the years, we've learned from members like yourself what works and what doesn't 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:

1. 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? Clarifyjng what you want will help you develop the right strategies to achieve your goals.
2. Get your essential tools immediately (they're FREE!) Call your local home builders association and get the "must haves" for any new member: 1) NAHB's CONTACT brochure, a telephone directory of NAHB staff experts divided by alpha listing as well as by issues; 2) the Annual Resource Guide for NAHB Members, a comprehensive description of more than 250 NAHB member services; 3) NAHB Logo Sheets and Usage Guidelines, so you can promote your affiliation with NAHB on your business cards, stationery, brochures,etc.\; and 4) the the Business Discounts for NAHB Members flyer - your link to NAHB discount business products and services. If any of these materials are not available through your local home builders association, call NAHB Membership Marketing at 1-800-368-5242, ext. 440.
3. Call the NAHB Member Service Center for year-round assistance: 1-800-368-5242, ext. "0". Whether you have a basic question or a complex business or industry-related problem, your best bet is to call one of our Information Specialists at the Member Service Center. You'll receive the information you need or your call will be quickly directed to the proper staff expert.
4. Attend your local association's new member orientation. Here's your opportunity to learn about local programs, services, and benefits that specifically match your needs. It's also a great way to meet and get to know your fellow members in a relaxing atmosphere. If your organization doesn't hold a formal orientation program, make an appointment to meet with an association representative who can help you get the most out of your membership dollars.
5. 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 own business.
6. 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, and 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.
7. Get involved in association projects relevant to your needs. Are you looking to enhance your public image? - donate your time and/or materials for a Home Builders Care project in your community, such as building or renovating a homeless shelter, a playground or building handicap access ramps. 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. The association offers a wealth of opportunities to help you help yourself and your business.
8. 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 nationally by accessing www.nahb.net or www.nahb.com and click on Education and Training, or call 1-800-368-5242, ext. 487.
9. 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!
10. Reap the rewards of your membership and RENEW. You'll need NAHB involvement to continue cultivating long-term relationships with other members while at the same time continuing to strengthen your own professionalism.