You may be wondering why you are being asked to join an email marketing association or industry group – if you’re not, then let’s just say you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Before I get into the nitty-gritty of what these types of groups do, let’s take a step back and consider the benefits.
The benefits of joining an email marketing association or group are many. By becoming a member of these organizations, you’ll have the opportunity to stay abreast of the latest news, trends, and technologies, as well as make valuable connections with like-minded individuals.
Keep reading for more information on why you might want to consider joining an email marketing association or group.
Access To Expert Support
One of the main drawcards of most any type of association or group is the access to expert support. When you need help with something, you’ll have people who can lend a hand. Whether you’re a newbie or experienced in the field, you’ll find a mentor who can provide guidance and support.
With so much information floating around on the internet, it’s easy for everyone to have an opinion on almost anything. One of the great things about groups like this is that they afford you the opportunity to learn from other people’s experiences. When you need support with a marketing strategy or email marketing campaign, you’ll have access to people who can help you frame your questions and get you pointed in the right direction. You’ll find experienced professionals who can provide sage advice and guidance on what to expect.
Attracting Top Talent
One of the things that makes these types of groups attractive to potential new members is their ability to attract top talent. Since these are mostly online communities, you’ll have the opportunity to reach a cross-section of individuals who are passionate about email marketing and willing to share their expertise with other members. When people see a top job opening, they’ll quickly understand what type of group you are looking for – and they’ll have the skills and experience you’re seeking to fill the position.
Networking Opportunities
In addition to providing you with access to expert support, these types of groups give you the opportunity to network. You’ll meet people who share your passion for email marketing and are willing to help you grow your business. Since these are mostly online communities, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with people who live all over the world and are available to provide you with the support you need to succeed.
Keep Current On Emerging Technologies
Another advantage of these groups is that they provide you with the opportunity to keep current on emerging technologies. As businesses evolve and change, it’s important for marketers to remain abreast of the latest trends and technologies that can help them better connect with customers and grow their business. With so much change in the industry, it’s essential that marketers stay current with the advancements so they can continue to provide value and build credibility.
Raising Revenue
One of the big reasons why you might want to consider joining an email marketing association or group is to help you raise revenue. You’ll have the opportunity to promote and sell your products and services to other members. While you might not want to completely rely on this as your only source of revenue, it’s always a good idea to have multiple streams of income. When you need additional cash flow to cover your expenses, then this could be a source of revenue you’re able to tap into.
Continuing Education
One more reason why you might want to consider joining an email marketing association or group is to continue your education. Since these are mostly online communities, you’ll have the opportunity to stay informed on trending topics and technologies, as well as learn valuable skills and techniques for becoming a better marketer.
The Downside
While there are many advantages to joining a marketing association or group, there are also some drawbacks. One of the main ones is the lack of face-to-face interaction. Since these are mostly online communities, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with others via online messaging and social media. However, there’s a distinct lack of consistency when it comes to online interactions. People who use social media to engage with customers always claim that their customers are a reflection of their personalities and that their social media interactions are authentic. So, if you need someone who’ll have a consistent and reliable customer-facing persona, then this might not be the best option for you.
Summary
There are many reasons why you might want to consider joining a marketing organization or group. To help you navigate your decision-making process, let’s consider the benefits and the disadvantage of each option.
If you’re looking for a change of pace, then consider a leisure organization. These groups provide you with new experiences and the opportunity to grow your social skills. If you’re looking for a more structured environment, then consider a trade association or professional organization. While you might not get the opportunity to network as much as you would in a leisure group, you’ll have the support of experienced professionals who can provide guidance and help you succeed.
Ultimately, it’s up to you what type of environment you want to create – whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or work in an established company. Just be sure to consider all the pros and the cons before you make a decision.