Current and prospective GSPM students often ask about the various organizations that they can pursue and target for job opportunities in their field. Trade associations provide many ripe and potentially lucrative opportunities for those wielding a GSPM Degree.
What Are Trade Associations Anyway?
According to Wikipedia, "a trade association is an industry group, business association, sector association, or industry body, and is an organization founded and funded by businesses which operate in a specific industry". Generally, one of the primary purposes of a trade association is to influence public policy.
There are over 45,000 trade associations in the United States. Many trade associations are headquartered in Washington, D.C., as well as other major U.S. cities and state capitals.
Where Can You Learn More About Trade Associations?
There is an organization called the American Society of Association Executives, or ASAE, known as the " Association of Associations". ASAE has an excellent and free job center that features employment opportunities and openings and informative career resources. Current and prospective GSPM students are encouraged to take advantage and to utilize many of the free career resources ASAE provides.
What Types of Jobs Are Available at Trade Associations?
The GSPM degree prepares you for the many types of jobs available at trade associations. One can explore opportunities in the following areas:
- Public Affairs/Public Relations
- Government Affairs, Government Relations/Legislative Affairs/Advocacy
- Communications, Social Media, Speechwriting, Marketing
- Public Policy
- PAC Management
- Event Planning, Event Management
- Membership
GSPM has many alumni and students working in trade associations representing a diverse range of businesses. There are trade associations for just about everything such as the Snack Food Association, American Medical Association, American Bar Association, American Dental Association, and many more.
GSPM Library Resources Available to Learn More About Trade Associations
In addition to all of the great information ASAE provides about trade associations, GSPM students should explore additional resources provided at GW's Gelman Library. Our assigned librarian is Dr. David Ettinger. Students can schedule a call to further explore the trade association world. For example, there is a guide called the Encyclopedia of Associations, which is a comprehensive source of information on associations.
Career Growth Development Opportunities at Trade Associations
Trade associations provide great opportunities to grow and develop stable careers from entry-level jobs to C- Level opportunities. One can spend one's career moving from the cubicle to the C-Suite. We at GSPM encourage our folks to explore the many opportunities available at trade associations.
