Get involved, stay involved. (National Commentary).(National Association of Credit Management)(Brief Article)

As members of NACM, we understand the value of belonging to a trade association or professional organization. As you read that sentence, you probably began to make a mental list of the benefits you regularly derive from your NACM membership. You probably thought about the collection services provided by NACM Affiliates or about the credit reports you regularly purchase from your Affiliate. Industry credit groups also probably came to mind, and the information and resources that opened up to you as a result of your participation in your Industry Credit Group. You also probably thought about personal and professional development and networking--two key ingredients needed for a successful career path.

NACM has always played a key role in my career. My association with NACM has made me a better credit professional: I've added to my professional skills by attending classes, programs and the annual Credit Congress, and I've added value to my company with NACM products and services. I've also assembled a vast network of professional peers, many of whom I am proud to call good friends. The benefits have been plentiful throughout the years, and many NACM members have taken the time to help me along the way.

Many NACM members have told me that they have stayed involved with credit because of NACM or that they now consider themselves as having a professional credit career rather than merely a job in credit.

As we advance through our professional careers, it's important to take the time to think about how much our organization has added to our success. Whether NACM products and services have made you or your credit department more successful, or the knowledge you've gained by attending seminars and conferences has helped you to accomplish something new, NACM was there to help. Perhaps one of the keys to your success is the network of professionals that you have developed, either through credit group participation or by attending educational seminars and events--the network and access to other professionals that understand the business credit profession has more than likely made you stronger as a professional.

Our organization is only as strong as our membership; you--the NACM member--are our strength. It is because of member feedback and input that products, services and programs are successful. NACM's mission is to provide services and programs that are relevant to and needed by you-the NACM member. It is our need of each other that makes us thrive and keeps our ...