In today's dynamic landscape, associations need to stay relevant and agile, adapting swiftly to evolving member expectations and industry changes. It's essential for association leaders to periodically pause, reflect, and evaluate how well their organization aligns with its mission and serves its members. This is where an Organizational 360 Assessment becomes invaluable, as it provides a clear picture of the association's current performance and alignment with its goals.
In a world where industries and professions are rapidly evolving, one key player often goes unnoticed despite its critical role in driving success: strategic communication. Trade associations and professional societies depend on clear, impactful communication to engage their members, influence policy, and stay relevant in a competitive landscape. Yet, this essential function is often seen as just a support role, rather than the hero that builds trust, shapes industry standards, and amplifies an organization's voice. It's time to recognize that strategic communication is not merely a background task, but the unsung hero keeping associations connected and influential.
At SMG Consulting, we recognize that a strong board is essential for an association’s success. With over 25 years of experience in not-for-profit leadership, we’ve helped organizations build and develop boards that are strategically engaged and well-prepared to lead. Our approach emphasizes thorough preparation, customized onboarding, and ongoing development to ensure long-term success.
At SMG Consulting, we often use sports analogies to describe association strategies, and one of the most fitting comparisons is with professional football. Just like a team's journey to success, association strategies depend on clear goals, teamwork, adaptability, and accountability. These shared elements, whether in sports or associations, highlight the critical steps needed to achieve success.
With over 25 years of experience in association management and consulting on a wide range of issues, from governance reorganization to strategic planning, it’s clear that many associations are still not prioritizing succession planning at the highest levels of leadership.