Associations--tactical or strategic?

In DC, you can't throw a rock without hitting an association. The association for household chemicals, the association for cranky lawyers, the association for anyone who has worked on the HIll and now doesn't. It seems like there is a non-profit representing every profession, every interest, and everyone.

I am quoted today in a Workforce article about SHRM: The Society for Human Resource Management. SHRM, which I have been a member of since I started as a human resource professional many years ago, is great for the tactical, the FYIs and the things I don't have time to or want to do. For example, I get their legislative updates each week. Am I the lobbying type? Not so much. But I like the updates they provide on new laws and pending legislation.

The thing is, these associations cannot be all things to all people. In the article, SHRM at a Crossroads, I seem to be one of the only ones (or only one who would actually speak up) who questions the purpose of such groups. Are they meant to be tactical research partners? Or, are they designed to help lobby on behalf of the profession? Should they advance the profession? Or do all three?

I like SHRM. I have used their resources, got their seniormost certification in HR (the SPHR) and will continue to pay for my membership. But I don't see them as a strategic partner. Or at least I don't see them trying to be. They've missed the middle. They do the tactical, and then they claim to represent the profession. But they are missing all of those mid-level executives who are focused on their business first and their role in HR second.

Which brings up the larger question--what IS an association supposed to be? That's the problem with associations, they don't really know. And every one is different. But then again, since so many of them are based in DC, maybe that's the problem. Like a politician trying to be all things to all people, so are associations.

And so my advice for SHRM--find your sweet spot. And don't try to do it all. If you want to be strategic, then open your eyes and include those who can help you. Don't just focus on tactical MA programs, look at MBA programs in HR. Don't just sell your own wares, partner with experts that can provide the bigger picture and controversial opinions. You can't be all things, but you can be upfront about what you are.

Oh yeah, and all you Super Tuesdayers? GO VOTE!