Getting Advice

Why should I consult a trade association?

Trade associations have always been a fundamental part of business life. Their strength and importance continues to grow, with many associations regulating the industry or offering specialist legal and insurance services. They often offer a range of services that can be useful when starting up a business, including:

• Information services - including up-to-date developments within the industry, market research and trends that may affect the future development of your business. During the start up or planning phase of your business, they can provide a range of material that will be useful when drawing up your marketing plan.
• Industry standards - many trade associations set standards and have a code of conduct with which members must comply. They often have a complaints service offering independent arbitration over grievances between members and their customers.
• Training - the availability of short courses or Continual Professional Development (CPD) will ensure that your skills remain up-to-date and that you are aware of changes within your industry.
• Networking - many associations have regional branches that meet on a regular basis, offering you the chance to meet and talk to other people working in the same business, sharing ideas and resolving difficulties common to the industry.