who we are
On February 12, 1889, at the magnificent Centropolis Hotel
on the corner of 5th and Grand in Kansas City, thirteen businessmen gathered
to find a solution to a perplexing problem they all shared. The goals they
set in 1889 still apply - to make the Association one of mutual benefit
for all dealers in a profitable as well as social way.
10 Reasons to Belong to MLA
- Interact with real people in the industry. Despite the increase in
the use of e-mail and web technologies for communicating with others,
face-to-face interaction will never be extinct. While we're strong advocates
of technological advancement, associations serve as your primary link
to colleagues, allowing you to put names with faces and keeping you in
touch with who's doing what.
- Sharpen your skills. By attending educational sessions, seminars, conferences
and visiting exhibits and expositions, you'll stay on top of your professional
game. Taking advantage of your association's educational opportunities
allows you to update your crucial job skills for the future.
- Keep up with new laws and regulations. You can keep attuned to the
legislative and regulatory issues affecting your bottom line. Your association
will continue monitoring these pertinent issues and let you know when
to take action.
- Get frequent updates on industry changes. As change occurs at a faster
pace, keeping track of the latest industry techniques and trends will
be difficult. However, through publications, educational sessions and
web sites, you'll hear about the newest innovations. With this information, you can do your
job in a more timely and more economical manner.
- Industry Standards. With constant changes occurring in the work place,
standards will continually need updating, and you'll need to know if
you or your business is in sound standing. Your association will keep
you informed and assist you in meeting those requirements.
- Increase your clout. Associations are a great place to build a name
for yourself. Although you may not feel you're moving ahead in your current
job, getting and remaining involved in industry and professional activities
will bring you to another level in your career.
- Save time and money. When seeking ideas and know-how for a specific
project, don't reinvent the wheel. Your association has the tools and
information resources to point you in the right direction, saving you
valuable time and money.
- Receive quality services. As the lines begin to blur between customer
and member service, associations are focusing on how they can provide
top-notch assistance. When you need help, whether
it's for personal or professional gain, count on your association to
provide one-stop guidance so you can get the job done.
- Find business partners. As acquisitions and mergers occur at a more
frequent pace and strategic alliances and partnerships become the norm,
you'll most likely find a sound business partner through your association.
- Anticipate and prepare for your future. Associations envision how the
industry or profession will look in the coming years. While you're focusing
on maintaining your daily operations, your association is looking at
what's to come and will provide you with opportunities.
