First Steps for New Members: Free Tools to Help You Save and Grow

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SEMA Member News—January/February 2015

First Steps for New Members: Free Tools to Help You Save and Grow

Attendees of the 2014 SEMA Show experienced the association’s membership offerings firsthand at SEMA Central, which included displays for the SEMA Garage, the SEMA Data Co-op and other association programs and services.
 Attendees of the 2014 SEMA Show experienced the association’s membership offerings firsthand at SEMA Central, which included displays for the SEMA Garage, the SEMA Data Co-op and other association programs and services.

Attendees of the 2014 SEMA Show experienced the association’s membership offerings firsthand at SEMA Central, with many even joining on-site. A common question from these new members was “Now what?” Figuring out how to gain the most from association membership can be tricky at first, but there are a few easy ways to get started and a team of people eager to help. Whatever the niche and scope of a company, these instruments can accelerate your business for no added cost.

Reliable Product Data From the SDC

While it’s often a challenge for retailers and distributors to acquire quality product data, the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) continues to blaze new trails and simplify the process for both supplier and receiver members. “SEMA Search” is a new tool designed to assist salespeople in accessing quality product information from the growing SDC database. Through a user-friendly interface, receivers can search for products based on a variety of criteria, then compare products side by side to best serve their customers. It’s all about bringing every possible option to the selling arena, and the best part is that SEMA-member receivers have free access to the data with unlimited exports, updates and downloads. Contact SDC Membership Manager Allen Horwitz by phone at 888-958-6698 x9, to learn how your company can start taking advantage of these valuable resources.

Market Research

Helping member businesses grow is the goal of SEMA Market Research. Need information on the automotive specialty-equipment market? SEMA Market Research is the go-to resource for the industry. The department provides consultation to members about how to find and utilize data and reports that can influence business decisions. Reports from SEMA Market Research detail market and economic trends, parts and accessory buyer profiles as well as niche consumer insights to members at reduced cost. Visit www.sema.org/research to find current research reports, or contact Gavin Knapp, senior market research manager, at 909-978-6712 with questions.

SEMA Membership Directory

Updated annually for release in May, the SEMA Membership Directory includes information that is helpful for all types of industry professionals. Easy-to-use listings give your company exposure and make it simple to identify other members offering resources that you need. The electronic (PDF) version of the directory is available for download free to members at www.sema.org/orderdirectory.

Each year, member companies can review and update their information to ensure accuracy. Updates are due by the beginning of February. Watch your inbox for an e-mail reminder along with instructions about how to easily alert the membership team of any changes.

Network Membership

If connections are what you’re after, the best place to start is by joining one of SEMA’s free professional networks. These groups are open to all employees of member companies and make it easy to start developing relationships and leadership skills through community-building events and volunteer opportunities. With four choices, there is something for everyone. The Emerging Trends & Technology Network focuses on how to seamlessly incorporate new industry advancements into a company, allowing members to stay on the cutting edge. The Manufacturers’ Representative Network has resources developed for the unique needs of reps. The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network provides opportunities for collaboration with female industry leaders. The Young Executives Network is a forum for industry professionals under the age of 40. To learn more about the groups, contact Senior Manager of Networks Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691.

SEMA Garage

A truly unique benefit, the SEMA Garage—Industry Innovations Center offers several of its features to manufacturer members free of charge. On- and off-site vehicle measuring sessions are free and give manufacturers a first chance to spend quality time with new releases, including opportunities to view non-U.S. vehicles for use in developing export products.

The training and installation centers are also available free of charge. The fully equipped installation center is perfect for test-fitting product prototypes or installing components on a project vehicle. SEMA members may also host an impressive product reveal or conduct a full training session for a new product in the 1,800-sq.-ft. training center, which is furnished with tables, chairs and a 70-in. TV monitor for presentations.

More information about these and other product development resources is available at www.SEMAgarage.com.

A call to a SEMA customer service rep can help clarify the tools that will prove most beneficial. The customer-service team also stands ready to answer any questions you may have about how SEMA can help your company grow and prosper. Reach out today to get started. Phone 909-610-2030.