Making Meaningful Connections in the Association Space

In the world of association management, who you know can be just as important as what you know. Whether you’re looking to grow in your current role, transition to a new area of the industry, or simply stay sharp, building a strong network is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your career.

But networking isn’t about collecting business cards or racking up LinkedIn connections—it’s about cultivating relationships rooted in mutual support, shared challenges, and a common purpose. That’s where Association Forum comes in.

From events and peer-to-peer learning programs to volunteer leadership opportunities, Association Forum offers countless ways to meet professionals who understand your world. Joining a Shared Interest Group (SIG), contributing to discussions on MyForum, or attending a signature event like Holiday Showcase can open doors you didn’t even know existed. These touchpoints allow you to find your people—those who will answer your questions, cheer your wins, and help you navigate the tough stuff.

If networking feels intimidating, especially when you’re new to a community, you’re not alone. Here are a few simple ways to break the ice and start connecting:

5 Easy Ways to Start Building Your Network Today:

1. Ask a Question in a SIG or MyForum Discussion. You don’t need to be an expert—just be curious. Others often jump at the chance to share insight or experience.

2. Attend One Event with the Goal of Meeting 3 New People. Set a small goal to make introductions at a coffee chat, webinar, or in-person meetup.

3. Send a Quick Follow-Up Message. After meeting someone, a short message on LinkedIn or email that says “Great to meet you—let’s stay in touch” goes a long way.

4. Offer to Help or Share a Resource. Relationships are built on reciprocity. If you’ve read a helpful article or use a great tool, share it!

5. Ask “What’s Keeping You Busy Right Now?” This open-ended question invites authentic conversation and helps you find common ground.

Remember, you don’t need to be extroverted or have a long elevator pitch. You just need to show up, be curious, and take small steps to stay engaged.

In our world, community isn’t a buzzword—it’s a career accelerator. And Association Forum is the perfect place to start.