Production Notes:

In this episode, Mike Bills, Owner and CEO of MB Strategies – (www.mbstrategiesllc.com) talks with  Will Carlson, Owner of WillPower Consulting (www.williamrcarlson.com) about his over 20 years experience in trade associations and where he sees future opportunities.  WillPower Consulting links technology to membership solutions.  Will is a member of the Michigan Society of Association’s Professional Development Committee and the recipient of the 2014 MSAE Director’s Gavel Award for promoting the strategic interests of the association.

 

Main Take-Aways:

1 – Trade Associations were traditionally the go-to resource for networking and connecting with vendors. That model has been under pressure by the emergence of the internet and social media.

2- Associations that do not respond to market needs can and will be replaced by private entities.

3- Associations still have opportunities with networking in new ways and in producing educational content.

4- Detroit is a unique opportunity for associations to use as a conference venue in order to connect with the “reinvention laboratory.”

5- Continuing to provide and leverage relevant education will be the key to keeping associations vibrant going forward.

Next episode:  Holiday Message from Mike Bills, Principal, MB Strategies.

Produced by:  Will Carlson, WillPower Consulting (www.williamrcarlson.com)