When I Ran for Election to the MANA Board of Directors

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When I ran for election to the MANA Board of Directors, I gave these four key reasons for doing so:

Education
Networking
Legislation
Support and give-back to the rep industry

I’m now serving my second three-year term on the MANA Board, and I still believe those reasons listed are valid. MANA continues to put quality educational opportunities on the table via Agency Sales magazine, iToolbox newsletter, webinars, teleforums and special reports.

Networking with other reps and manufacturers is a key component in our business. MANA makes a lot of effort to help reps and manufacturers connect. In addition, MANA is in communication with other rep organizations that regularly schedule meetings, and MANA keeps local members advised as to when these meetings take place. Plus, the above professional development resources are a great way to connect with other rep organizations.

Over the years, MANA has supported and funded much of the current legislation for rep protection laws now in place in many states, providing more stability and recognition for our industry. I have found that being able to reference these laws is a good starting point or gathering point when negotiating contracts or addressing issues with principals. MANA continues to be a strong advocate in promoting the use of outsourced sales.

As a long-standing MANA member, I have appreciated the role MANA has played in the success of our agency. So, when the opportunity to serve on their Board became available, I was motivated to run for election. Given the economical challenges over the last few years, the experience has had its trials. However, the rewards have far outweighed these trials. Thinking that I was supporting and “giving back” to our industry, I have actually found that becoming more involved has opened up my awareness of the many facets MANA offers its membership.

Agency Sales is a great publication that provides many topical insights and solid information pertaining to the rep industry. I have found it to be a great monthly source. But if your level of involvement ends there, you are missing out on a great many other benefits to belonging to MANA. The updated website alone has an array of new features and benefits, anything from contract guidelines and attorney referrals to state-specific legislation, compatible sister organizations, upcoming educational seminars and training events, new line opportunities, etc. You can now even read Agency Sales online.

MANA now offers resources for both legal and business counseling. You can take advantage of a free, annual, one-hour consultation with a lawyer that has experience and knowledge of the rep industry. You can also take advantage of MANA-sponsored coaching and mentoring programs. Or, if you are a start-up or relatively new agency, MANA offers a “start-up” kit, direction, information and tools to assist in your new endeavor.

If you are reading this article, you are most likely a member that has paid your annual dues to MANA and are receiving Agency Sales on a regular basis. If you just leave it at that, MANA becomes a cost you weigh when the time comes to renew your membership. But if you participate and take an active approach to the benefits of your membership, you may begin looking at it more as an investment you are making toward your career and livelihood. The more you get involved, the more you will get out of your membership. You will more and more see it as a benefit rather than a cost. You’ve already paid for it — so why not take advantage of MANA’s products and services?