Where the Winners Meet - Why Happier, More Successful People Gravitate Towards Association

By the William E. Smith Institute for Association Research

Trade associations and professional societies are an ubiquitous part of the American economy. As nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations, they receive favorable treatment under American tax law with the rationale that they provide key benefits to companies and their employees. Association leaders know that their organizations must provide benefits to members. However, little research has been conducted about the precise nature of those benefits, or how people, businesses and industries realize greater success by participating in associations. This study serves to reveal what winners need most from associations, how associations can most effectively communicate the significance of their services that provide benefits to potential members and their employers, and how associations can continue to attract successful people through the services they offer.