Check These Trade Associations Out
Most locksmith business owners depend on word of mouth recommendations and online reviews to increase their customer base. Being associated with an industry trade association is one of the most effective ways to get your name and reputation out there to a larger audience. In addition to the prestige that comes with an association membership, there are many additional perks that business owners and professionals can take advantage of, such as attending sponsored trade shows, educational and certification opportunities, discounts on products and services, and industry backing that ensures that participating companies follow strict best practice guidelines which, in turn, benefit their customers.
Unfortunately, there is not a large number of organizations related to the locksmith industry, however listed below are a few that you may want to consider joining to help grow your business and network with other industry professionals.
ALOA Security Professionals Association, Inc.
Regions:
(USA)
Overview:
ALOA’s main objective is to be a professional representative and spokesperson for the locksmith and security industries, promote and market locksmith services, as well as working towards the preservation and enhancement of the industry through the exchange of information and education among similar organizations with a common goal. ALOA has regional chapters throughout the country.
Membership Details:
There are many exclusive benefits to becoming a member of ALOA which include, among other things, online education and industry certifications, admittance to annual conventions and expos, free listing in findalocksmith.com, subscription to Keynotes magazine, online membership directory, $15,000 free industry bond, safety manuals, textbooks, and apparel. Additional benefits and registration information can be found on their website https://aloa.org/.
ALOA Convention Promotional Video
Society of Professional Locksmiths (SOPL)
Regions:
(Worldwide)
Overview:
The Society of Professional Locksmiths provides its members with career development through online technical training and certification testing for locksmith licenses, as well as professional development and job placement. In addition, there is the added advantage of networking with manufacturers and business owners who can benefit from the hands-on expertise and skills possessed by members who are professional locksmiths who can perform product installation. According to their Mission Statement, the SOPL also provides support and advocacy for members that are encumbered by excessive managerial obstruction.
Membership:
There are three membership levels for this organization:
Gold Membership (2 Years)/$350
Silver Membership (1 Year)/$150
Bronze Membership (1 Year)/$50
The Institutional Locksmiths’ Association (ILA)
Regions:
(USA)
Overview:
The Institutional Locksmiths’ Association provides a forum for members to discuss issues and provide solutions for such things as key/master keying control problems, understanding various technical information, and locating parts, supplies, and key codes, among so many other things.
The ILA encompasses members who are involved with everything from maintenance, installation, and servicing to providing specifications or recommendations for a variety of security and life safety hardware. Locksmiths, carpenters, and building engineers are among these members who are employees of various entities such as hospitals, universities, companies, and governmental institutions.
Membership:
The cost of an annual membership is $100 plus a one time $35 application fee. Included in your membership fee are benefits, such as free or low cost training and certifications, new product updates and reviews, as well as being an integral part of an organization that builds a necessary bridge between institutional locksmiths and mainstream locksmiths to ensure the professionalism of security hardware installation and maintenance throughout the industry.
