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OUTSIDE ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP: YES OR NO BY GREG DESHIELDS, SENIOR DIRECTOR FOR CORPORATE RELATIONS SCHOOL OF TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT TEMPLE UNIVERSITY and external conversation of ideas, opportunities and perspec- tives. Although organizational membership is not always logis- tically and financially feasible, it should be a part of your annu- al strategic plan discussion. The value of organization membership should not be under- In estimated. While the number of hospitality/tourism-related associations, groups, councils and bureaus may seem endless, it is crucial to evaluate those that can support and assist your organization in achieving its goals. At Temple University’s School of Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM), we prioritize interaction with industry, primarily through membership with various organizations. The priceless opportunities that result are unique to each relation- ship. For example, to fulfill our diversity initiative, which is to enrich the tourism, hospitality, recreation and sport industries by fostering diversity and inclusion, it is crucial that we are involved with organizations such as the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA), Hispanic Hotel Owners 20 today’s business climate, it is important for organ- izations to engage with key counterparts, trend- setters and future leaders to ensure an internal Association (HHOA), National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators and Developers (NABHOOD), and National Society of Minorities in Hospitality (NSMH). This participation cultivates mutually beneficial and long-lasting relationships, ultimately enhancing opportunities for the future leaders of the hospitality industry. According to the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), members join outside organizations for a variety of reasons – networking, camaraderie, volunteerism and continuing education among them – but not everyone val- ues the same things. Four reasons people join associations: 1. Specific association services. This can include the produc- tion of newsletters and magazines or lobbying or representa- tion. 2. Professional or business gain. If you’re a member of a trade association (an association whose members are compa- nies or institutions), then you’ll join because of the market- place-like environment. If you’re in a professional association (an association whose members are individuals and practition- ers of a certain profession) then you’ll join because of the indi- vidual cachet you get, the networking opportunities and the opportunities for career advancement. 3. The association’s image. The association is large, visible and projects quality. 4. Benefit to the industry or profession. People want to be in a position of influencing the direction of the organization and/or industry Additionally, when selecting the appropriate organization, you should research their longevity, affiliations, values and mis- sion similarity (to your own organization), as well as cost and ability to collaborate. At STHM, our memberships are lucrative due to core simi- larities such as education and professional development. These similarities create relationships that are reciprocal on numer- ous levels such as managing political, financial and promotion- al initiatives. But you should be careful of your commitments and realize that not all projects or proposals are for you. Once you determine your reasons for joining, it is important to know the benefits associated with any outside organization validating your membership. Traditional Member Benefits: • Improved relationships with government and public • Best practice resources •Higher level of respect and credibility as an industry • Success in reframing negative perceptions to a positive Black Meetings & Tourism May/June 2010: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com