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NAHB Membership Key in Weathering Tough Economic Times
On the eve of National Membership Day on May 19, association members across the country are stepping up their recruitment efforts and informing professionals who work in the housing industry of the many advantages of joining the NAHB federation — which are indispensable in surviving today’s tough economic times.
To help its members conduct business more effectively and more profitably, NAHB offers a powerful combination of political advocacy, educational opportunity, industry research, business management tools and relationship-building networking events.
When they join their local home builders association, new recruits also become members of their state association and the National Association of Home Builders, providing them with powerful advocates for their business interests at the local, state and national levels.
NAHB creates value in several key ways:
- Advocacy — Protecting the industry’s interests from city hall to the U.S. Capitol.
- Education — Providing training and designation programs that help builders stay abreast of the latest trends.
- Research and Information — Whether it’s economic forecasting, leading-edge building technologies, sales and marketing expertise or business management best practices, NAHB can helps its members make the most of their business.
- Networking — NAHB helps build relationships that can make all the difference in difficult times.
Fighting for the Good of the Industry
NAHB’s 200,000-plus members give the federation political clout as the voice of the housing industry. NAHB is recognized as one of the strongest advocacy organizations in the nation.
To protect members’ interests, the NAHB staff constantly monitors the development of proposed bills and regulations in Washington and in statehouses across the country, as well as significant legal cases and changes to building codes and industry standards.
Through the association, members working at the local, state or national level can step up their advocacy of what’s best for the nation’s housing industry. Each year NAHB conducts a Legislative Conference at which hundreds of members from across the country come to Washington to meet with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
The Best Education in Housing
The NAHB University of Housing assists newcomers to the industry and veterans alike in their educational pursuits. As the facilitator of all NAHB educational programs — including 15 national conferences and tours — the university is committed to helping members “Reach Higher and Work Smarter.”
NAHB also offers several designation programs, which help builders stay ahead of emerging trends and differentiate themselves from the competition. From the Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) to Graduate Master Builder (GMB), these programs give members unparalleled opportunities to improve their skills, advance their careers and be recognized for their commitment to professional growth.
Staying Competitive With Business Tools
Available on the members-only section of the NAHB Web site, members can download a wide variety of free business tools that are geared to keeping their companies competitive and profitable. Included are time-saving documents, articles and resources designed to help with business planning, balancing the books, streamlining internal processes and improving customer service.
NAHB’s Economics Department conducts economic analysis that helps keep members informed of local, regional and national economic trends. And the NAHB Research Center conducts leading-edge research on new products and construction technologies.
Helping Members Tap Niche Markets
NAHB addresses the needs of members in individual market segments with a variety of special interest groups and councils. Participating in a council gives members the opportunity to experience leadership in their field, as well as gain insights into the topics and issues that are most relevant to them. The councils also provide guidance and support for NAHB’s critical advocacy efforts.
One of NAHB’s most vital roles is serving as a highly effective forum in which builders and associates can meet and do business. The association offers a variety of popular events and programs designed to facilitate these relationships. Whether it’s a meeting of the local association in a home town setting or a board of directors’ meeting in Washington, D.C., every member has the opportunity to be involved and to shape the future of the home building industry.
NAHB’s membership ranks are comprised of more than just home builders; click here to read a related story on the benefits of association membership.
For more information on membership, e-mail Gabrielle Taylor at NAHB, or call her at 800-368-5242 x8351.
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