Hi All,
I am about to embark on a short trip to Europe to meet with members, chapters, corporations, universities and potential partners to advance IMA's growth strategy. I am the type that enjoys travel and meeting with members around the world, but the minute I leave home I miss my business colleagues here in Montvale, my kids, my grand-kids, my doggies and (of course!), my spouse.
Quite the paradox! Much like the challenges of being a true global association, not just in spirit but in actions.
IMA serves members in over 120 countries. Like organizations of any size, any structure, any where, there are challenges in HAVING members or customers in lots of countries vs. truly SERVING them in an exemplary manner. I know the saying "think globally, act locally" but that is easier said than done.
But there are some starting points. Do you offer products and services that have global appeal, including the hours of operation for your member service department, the hours and dates that you run webinars and conferences, etc.? Does your governance structure, including the board of directors, reflect the "diversity" of your global membership and profession? Tough questions all, and I can assure you, IMA is addressing these questions head on in the journey to behave like a truly global association. One of the starting points is conducting a thorough environmental scan and physically visiting the region first hand to build enduring relationships with members of the community, in whatever form they may take.
Special thanks to Nina Michaels-Kim, CMA and a founder of the Swiss Chapter, for all the work she has done in arranging the European visit.
What do you think about the challenges of going global? I would like to hear your ideas.
Thanks,
Jeff