Doesn’t it seem like October and November is filled with trade shows?  You probably look at the exhibitor list, see if its still worth while to exhibit or are contemplating whether its worth to take time out of your busy schedule to walk the aisles. 

Well, the LA/NTMA is here to help with your decisions.  I recently received a call from a potential new member.  He is the owner of a small job shop looking to join an association that could help him with marketing.  Most of LA/NTMA’s members exhibit at trade shows locally and nationally; and if they are not exhibiting, it’s not hard not to spot one walking down the aisles. 

I explained to these potential members that although there isn’t a marketing seminar each month, there are plenty of members, including myself, that have had experience with trade shows.  We spoke for about an hour on the trade shows my company has exhibited and attended.  Discussed hat worked and what didn’t.

My reason for sharing this with you is that board members and member companies that attend meetings have a wealth of knowledge that goes beyond trade shows and marketing. I have had the pleasure of talking to individuals about succession planning, contracts, labor issues, and insurance.  Equally as important, is their willingness to share their successes and failures. 

“Every meeting I attend is like attending a business class.”  This has been said many times through out my years of involvement with the LA/NTMA and it is so true. (Except that these meeting are a lot more fun than sitting in a classroom!)

My favorite benefit from being an active member is my ability to pick up the phone and call anyone of these industry leaders to ask them for advice.  To me, this is worth my dues many times over.  So I encourage you to attend a meeting and get involved.  I guarantee that the time put in will pay off in the education received.

I look forward to seeing you on October 20th for an exciting Panel Discussion.

Sincerely,
Patricia Szczuka
LA/NTMA President
pszczuka@computedtool.com