The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) has, as its Core Purpose: “to advance and promote the remodeling industry’s professionalism, product, and vital public purpose.” NARI’s member contractors “have the opportunity to enrich their knowledge with cutting edge educational opportunities and certifications. They have unlimited use of the NARI logo, which is promoted nationwide in a number of consumer media outlets. They are easy for consumers to find on the NARI website, and they have access to leads through the NARI website.” NARI also provides marketing advice, information about building permits, and events focusing on various topics of vital interest to professionals in the remodeling industry.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) considers itself to be “the premier resource for industry information, education, research, and technical expertise.” One of the organization’s primary benefits for members is called Powerful Advocacy, and is described thus: “Currently ranked #11 on Fortune Magazine’s ‘Power 25’ Advocates, NAHB has the grassroots strength of over 235,000 members to defeat excessive regulations and defend affordable housing initiatives on Capitol Hill, in your state, and in the communities where you do business. That puts money and time back in your pocket! Plus, NAHB members are kept informed with prompt regulatory and legislative alerts.” Other benefits include news updates, networking opportunities, and educational programs.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) is dedicated to “enhance member success and excellence, promote professionalism and ethical business practices, and provide leadership and direction for the kitchen and bath industry worldwide.” This organization has over 40,000 members and hosts the world’s largest trade show for the kitchen and bath industries. Focus areas of NKBA include specialty segments for Builders/Remodelers, Cabinet Shops, Dealers, Decorative Plumbing and Hardware, Designer, Distributor, Fabricator, Installer, Manufacturer, Manufacturer’s Representative, and Multi-Branch Retailer/Home Centers.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) offers government advocacy, awards, conferences, and education. Members will also find examples of contracts for their use, and information on keeping up to date with technology. The AIA features an array of streaming videos and podcasts on design, leadership, and best practices. There is a blog and news feeds for members to subscribe to. As its goal, the AIA claims to serve as “the voice of the architecture profession and the resource for our members in service to society.” It has over 83,000 members and features subgroups devoted to topics including professional knowledge and design, both nationally and internationally.

All of these organizations have local chapters and members are able to benefit from the overarching functions and professional contributions of the associations at the national level while taking advantage of opportunities for local participation and networking. Each trade association’s website is worth exploring, in order to determine which one would best serve you and your company in meeting and expanding your own goals for success.

Your network includes your suppliers, your employees, your subcontractors, friends, family, previous and current clients – essentially anyone who can potentially send business your way. Work these contacts to their full potential. Hand-out business cards, mention that you are looking to expand your business or are offering a new service.

How about creating an incentive program for your employees and even previous clients? For example, when you are finished with a project, hand your client a small flyer with your contact information. If they send someone your way, you will give them a $100 gift certificate to a place of their choosing. Offer a similar program to your employees if they bring in a client.

In addition to strengthening your current network, look for innovative ways to expand and build your circle. Consider sponsoring a local little league or softball team. All you have to do is invest in some uniforms, a trophy, and a sign, and your company is now plastered on the backs of 45 local children two nights per week.

Another idea to draw attention to your company is to spearhead a charity event. Even though the holidays are over, how about heading up a canned food or toy drive for needy families? Offer a drawing or other prize to entice participants, and get the local radio station to help draw attention to the cause. In the charity realm, how about donating your services to someone in need? (Although we are supposed to do our good deeds in secret…) If you have ever watched the show “Extreme Makeover, Home Edition,” the contractor performing the work is always noted.

These are just a few ideas that might help you survive the tumultuous economy. Feel free to share any additional ideas or tips you might have discovered that our readers may find helpful.