Well, I'm joining SMA-NA today

[sportsguy]

Just waiting on the signed PO to hit my desk.

I always enjoy joining groups like this (already a SEMPO member) - great way to keep in touch with folks and help shape the direction of search marketing - if you get involved.

I guess I wanted to generally say thanks to those who get these types of things started in the first place. I started, and still run, a non-profit organization of my own, so I know the amount of work it takes to get a "group" up and running.

They thrive because dedicated folks invest time - that's the bottom line. And it's very much appreciated.

Duane

[mcanerin]

Congratulations! And a very warm welcome aboard! :)

I guess I wanted to generally say thanks to those who get these types of things started in the first place.
On behalf of both the working group and current executive, you're welcome!

It's been a real team effort, and although I've been involved with non-profits before, this whole process has opened up a newfound respect and understanding for those who get involved with them.

It's people like yourself and the other members that help make the difference - the organization simply provides the platform to work together, and the SMA-NA is dedicated to making sure we never lose track of that idea.

Feel free to come by our table at the "Birds of a Feather" meeting during lunch on wednesday, and don't forget to ask about the 10% discount for SES you are entitled to as a member :D

Ian McAnerin
President, SMA-NA

[sportsguy]

Thanks Ian. :) I'll swing by the table at lunch. First off, though, I have to swing by the booth and get my payment processed. :(

Didn't get it done when/as planned last week, but got a very helpful e-mail saying I should swing by the booth and they'd hook me up. :)

Man, lunches are going to be busy this year for me...LOL

Duane

[Receptional]

I've just signed up to the UK equivalent SMA-UK.

For me though, I am hoping one will start to make significant headway over the others. I've been through WAIM, SEMPO, SEOPROS, SEOCONSULTANTS and Now SMA. Add to that Google Professional badges and Overture Accreditation (a UK only thiing) and it all adds up to great for logos all over the site, but I still get much more out of the forums and their associated shows than I get out of the trade organizations.

That doesn't mean I am down hearted - far from it. I think that the industry does indeed need a trade association and every incarnation I see is getting better. Having two (as I see it) fighting for our membership is a good thing - makes for a bit of quality control.

[mcanerin]

Having two (as I see it) fighting for our membership is a good thing - makes for a bit of quality control.

Although we (SMA and SEMPO) tend to focus on different areas, I do admit they help keep us on our toes (and I suspect vice versa). I'm not obsessed about them by any means, but knowing that they offer an alternative makes sure I'm always focused on what's best for our members. That's good for everyone.

At one point, I was hopeful that we could have a single organization to speak for the industry, but the more I travel and the more people I speak to, the more I'm convinced that some competition, even here, is a good thing, and that some people simply would not be happy with only one or the other organization.

Each has their own personality and agenda, and I think that helps create a healthy representation for the industry, one that is not in danger of losing touch due to a monopoly.

Also, it helps make sure that there is at least one org for everyone, big or small, regardless of expectations. I don't think a single organization could easily be all things to everyone, not in an industry this diverse.

I'm very pleased you decided to join our colleagues in the SMA-UK. If there is anything that the SMA-NA can do to help you, please ask, and we'll do what we can.

Yours,

Ian McAnerin
President, SMA-NA