GET GROWING!
In today's competitive agri-marketing environment, it's more important than ever that you stay connected to colleaguesin the industry...for ideas, information and advancement. That's where the National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) comes in! As a part of NAMA, you can connect with other leading industry professionals - in marketing, advertising, public relations, media and more - to gain a unique perspective you simply can't find elsewhere. Here are 10 good reasons to join:

1. Connections - With NAMA, you'll have regular opportunities to network with colleagues, customers and prospects within 25 chapters in six regions nationwide. Whether you're looking to build your business or simply broaden your horizons, NAMA is the choice for you!

2. Ideas - There's no better place to get the most recent industry innovations than through NAMA. At regular NAMA meetings, you can learn what's working - and what's not - from agri-marketing's leading professionals...and then put those insights to work for you!

3. Recognition - As a member of NAMA, you can gain exposure and recognition through the industry's leading awards program - Best of NAMA. Categories encompass advertising and public relations. Numerous individual awards, such as Agribusiness Leader of the Year and NAMA Marketer of the Year, are also bestowed annually.

4. Events - If you're ready to "see and be seen," then you won't want to miss the Agri-Marketing Conference & Trade Show held annually in April. This high-powered event is recognized as the single best networking opportunity of the year. Plus, you can also attend the Agribusiness Forum, and annual fall meeting targeted to the interests of members focusing on marketing trends and issues.

5. Professional Development - Take advantage of professional development opportunities throughout the year, designed to help you do your job better. Seminars, as well as regular chapter meetings, cater to the unique needs of professionals in areas such as Marketing Communications; Product/Species Management; or Public Relations and Sales.

6. Industry News - Stay "in the know" with a complimentary subscription to Agri Marketing magazine. Each issue contains National NAMA News, as well as the latest industry insights, to help keep you up-to-date. You'll also have access to a special Members' Only section of www.nama.org, as well as an electronic newsletter, complete with the latest NAMA events and other happenings.

7. Contacts - NAMA members receive the National Membership Directory published as part of Agri Marketing magazine's Marketing Services Guide. The listing is highly regarded as the most comprehensive directory of agri-marketers available. Included is contact information for members of NAMA, as well as all major agribusiness companies, marketing communications agencies, direct marketing services, print, broadcast and electronic media across the nation. A mid-year update to the membership directory is also sent to members.

8. Leadership Experience - Make the most of your membership by taking a leadership role on the chapter, regional or national levels. You can gain hands-on experience that will benefit you in your professional and personal life. Several Leader Workshops are offered annually to prepare new leaders and enrich the overall experience.

9. Mentor Opportunities - Help an aspiring professional by serving as a mentor. The student NAMA program has more than 37 student chapters in universities nationwide, which provide ample opportunity to share your enthusiasm for - and knowledge of - agri-marketing.

10. Influence - Join NAMA and you can add your voice to other agri-marketers working for the betterment of our industry. NAMA members work together to improve the standards of practice...and learn new - and innovative - approaches to industry challenges.

Learn what Cultivating Connections can do for you! Join Now!

For more information e-mail connections@nama.org
or contact your local NAMA Chapter.