10 Intangible Benefits of Association Memberships

Associations offer various intangible benefits that are not easily quantifiable or physically tangible. Here are ten examples of such intangible benefits provided by associations:

  1. Professional Networking: Associations facilitate connections among professionals within a specific industry or field, providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.
  2. Knowledge and Information Sharing: Associations serve as platforms for the exchange of industry-specific information, best practices, research findings, and trends. Members stay updated on the latest developments and gain valuable insights.
  3. Industry Recognition and Credibility: Membership in a reputable association enhances an individual’s professional credibility and recognition within their industry or field. It signifies a commitment to professional growth and adherence to industry standards.
  4. Mentoring and Professional Development: Associations often offer mentoring programs, workshops, webinars, and other educational resources to support members’ professional growth and advancement. These opportunities contribute to skill development and career progression.
  5. Advocacy and Representation: Associations advocate for the interests and concerns of their members at various levels, such as government, regulatory bodies, or industry stakeholders. They amplify members’ voices and work towards creating a favorable environment for the industry as a whole.
  6. Collaboration and Partnerships: Associations foster collaboration among members, facilitating partnerships for joint projects, research initiatives, and business opportunities. Members can leverage these connections to enhance their professional reach and expand their networks.
  7. Industry Insights and Market Intelligence: Associations often conduct industry-specific research, surveys, and studies to provide members with valuable market insights, industry trends, and data-driven analysis. This information helps members make informed decisions and stay ahead in their respective fields.
  8. Professional Recognition and Awards: Associations may offer recognition programs and awards to acknowledge outstanding achievements, contributions, and innovations within the industry. These accolades enhance professional reputation and provide visibility.
  9. Peer Support and Camaraderie: Associations foster a sense of community and camaraderie among members. They provide a support network where professionals can seek advice, share experiences, and find mentors or like-minded individuals who understand the challenges and opportunities of the industry.
  10. Access to Exclusive Events and Resources: Associations often organize conferences, seminars, webinars, and exclusive events that provide unique learning and networking opportunities. Members gain access to specialized resources, industry publications, research papers, and newsletters, keeping them informed about industry advancements.

Remember, the specific intangible benefits offered by an association can vary depending on its focus, industry, and member needs.

Marie Stravlo
Marie Stravlo

With over 15 years of experience in non-profit governance and operations, Marie Stravlo specializes in helping organizations build strong, effective boards that drive mission-focused success. She is passionate about creating governance structures that empower volunteer leaders to set strategic priorities and clear policies—allowing staff and volunteers to execute the organization’s goals effectively.

Her commitment to non-profit excellence is demonstrated by her credentials, including the Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation and her role as both a graduate and faculty member of the US Chamber of Commerce Institute of Organizational Management (IOM). These achievements reflect her dedication to best practices, ethics, and sustainable leadership in the sector.

Through Governance Gal®, Marie provides expert consulting on governance best practices. She has helped numerous non-profits strengthen their bylaws, policies, and procedures, improve board orientations, restructure for efficiency, revitalize volunteer engagement, and develop strategic plans that drive long-term success.

As the CEO of Avlo Solutions, an association management company, Marie and her team support non-profits with daily operations such as bookkeeping, member services, board and volunteer engagement, elections, event planning, and more. She also serves as the Executive Director for two association clients (one national and one state chapter), a role she has held for the past nine years.

Marie’s ability to connect with volunteers in a meaningful way is rooted in her own experience serving as a volunteer. Having held leadership roles as president, vice president, treasurer, trustee, and director for various local and national non-profits, she understands the challenges and perspectives of both staff and volunteers. This unique insight allows her to facilitate solutions that benefit all stakeholders.

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