Why associations matter to modern members

Anyone can benefit greatly from joining an association, yet 56% of associations admit they have trouble engaging young professionals, according to Naylor’s Association Communications Benchmarking Survey. However, many factors that millennials and Gen Z value most—such as networking, collaboration and educational opportunities—are abundantly available through associations.

Why it matters: At any stage of your career, joining your profession’s association will help you. For commercial credit professionals, NACM provides that help. NACM plays a pivotal role in fostering professional development by serving as a hub for networking, knowledge exchange and collective growth. In today’s landscape, the role of association members has evolved significantly.

As the demands on credit managers and financial professionals continue to grow in an ever-changing business environment, staying ahead of industry trends and continuously developing professional skills is crucial. NACM’s strength lies in providing opportunities for both personal and professional growth through education, information and its powerful network that is indispensable in today’s professional landscape.

Take Erica White, CCE, regional credit manager at Ferguson Enterprises LLC (Elmhurst, IL), for example. White attended the Graduate School of Credit & Financial Management (GSCFM), a hybrid educational program offered by NACM. White found the experience both rewarding and enriching, providing her with the opportunity to network with other credit managers in the industry. “Not only was it meaningful, but it was also a great way to network with other credit managers,” she said. The GSCFM program, along with NACM’s broad educational offerings, is tailored to meet the needs of today’s credit professionals who are looking to expand their skill sets and enhance their careers.

NACM’s emphasis on education and professional development aligns with the values and goals of modern trade credit managers. Josh Nolan, CCE, senior director of financial operations at PrePass (Phoenix, AZ), chose to become a NACM member as part of a strategic plan to advance his career in credit management. “Their dedication to professional growth and collaboration became the cornerstone of my journey in credit management,” he said.

Today’s members are not only looking for educational resources, but also for connections to help them navigate their careers and overcome challenges. Somer John, AR team lead at Trinity Logistics (Seaford, DE), joined NACM to gain access to webinars, but quickly realized the breadth of value the association offers. “The training, webinars and articles have been very useful in keeping up with what is happening in the credit world, as well as helping to strengthen my credit skills,” John shared. Modern credit professionals, like John, are discovering that the value of being part of an association like NACM extends far beyond the basics—it’s about continuous learning and networking in a community of like-minded professionals.

Kim Marszalek, CCE, CCRA, credit manager at Madix Inc. (Terrell, TX), has been an NACM member since 2017, and encourages others to dive into the resources available. “You won’t know the value until you dive into it,” she said. Marszalek’s involvement with NACM’s Credit Manager’s Index (CMI) survey, a leading economic indicator gathering input from credit managers across the country, exemplifies the impact of becoming deeply engaged with an association. “Through NACM, I have access to resources that allow me to stay at the forefront of industry trends and connect with others in my field,” she added. The ability to engage in industry-specific research and take part in key surveys empowers professionals to make informed decisions that affect their businesses and careers.

Networking remains one of the most powerful benefits of membership in any trade association, and NACM provides countless opportunities for credit professionals to expand their networks. For example, NACM’s Thought Leadership Forums offer monthly sessions where credit professionals can connect, discuss trends and share insights. “The Thought Leadership Discussion Forums are a safe space to talk to others who may be facing different or similar challenges as far as leading different associates,” White explained.

One of the greatest advantages of being a part of a community like NACM is the opportunity to reach out to others for guidance and support. “I would highly recommend joining NACM,” John said. “Even if you’ve been a credit professional for many years, there is always more to learn and it’s a great way to keep up with our ever-changing times. We all have something to learn from and teach others.”

The bottom line: By joining NACM, an association dedicated to supporting, enriching and enhancing your profession, you can access cutting-edge educational programs, tap into a vast network of experts and stand informed about emerging trends and best practices. Your involvement plays a key and pivotal role in ensuring that NACM evolves with your profession while helping you meet tomorrow’s ever-growing challenges and professional needs.