What NMA Does for You...
We often say that NMA’s founder, Charles Kettering, should be called “the father of human resource development” when he introduced the idea of professional development for first line supervisors in Dayton in 1919. That idea was so significant that it rapidly spread across the nation, and the National Association of Foremen was formed in 1925. In the late 1950s, the Association adopted a broader mission to include all levels of management and became The National Management Association. In today’s fast-paced, global economy the rebranding to NMA…THE Leadership Development Organization underscores that we understand new realities.
For Individual Members, NMA is working hard to provide a unique set of member benefits, some to be provided in an individualized setting and others to be provided within a community of Individual Members. Our NMA Board of Directors now has Individual Member representatives helping to set direction for the future. Self-study courses, online discussions, special regional meetings – these are just some of the member benefits either already available or currently in the works. Please stay close to the NMA website where we’ll be unveiling new programs and services as they become ready for delivery.
For chapter members, most of whom find themselves in a teaming environment, we find that most chapters now operate as employee organizations open to all employees, and others that operate as community organizations open to all professionals within the local community. As times change, NMA evolves. Consequently, the professional development of individuals, central to the founding of NMA, can now nearly reach all employees, recognizing that leaders are found at all levels of the organizational chain. Chapters exist to:
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· Develop critical leadership skills |
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· Break down barriers within organizations and between people |
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· Identify potential leaders |
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· Serve the local community |
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· Foster and build internal and external networks |
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· Supplement organizational training efforts |
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· Recognize individuals and achievements |
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· Provide a forum to facilitate cultural change |
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· Provide coaching/mentoring opportunities |
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· Provide structure for building unity and camaraderie |
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Encourage certification through The Institute of Certified Professional Managers |
Leadership Development
NMA participants receive opportunities to learn and practice how to motivate and inspire people, how to take initiative, how to lead by example, how to listen, and how to work well with others. You need to have a cadre of leaders ready to take the next challenge, manage future projects, and capable of handling the unexpected. NMA helps you develop that leadership bench strength!
The Educational Component
Chapter programs expand organizations’ scarce human resource dollars and enable training to be extended to all professionals. The NMA chapter provides experiential learning and opportunities to practice new skills and techniques. All members benefit from a broad range of discounted professional development courses, access to a variety of people, resources, and information sources and opportunities for networking and sharing of resources.
On line Assessment – NMA LEADS
NMA’s Leadership Assessment and Development System (LEADS) assesses an individual’s leadership competencies, identifies what lessons may still need to be learned, and establishes what specific work experiences and training need to be sought out in order to develop those skills. Once you have completed the 120 question assessment, LEADS provides a complete report itemizing competencies, suggested readings, training opportunities, and possible work experiences for helping you develop your leadership skills to the fullest.
Supervisory and Management Skills Program
NMA’ flagship series is a complete management and leadership development program consisting of 10 courses based on practical experience and interactive discussion.
FaciliSkills™ workshops teach how to build collaborative environments that foster decision-making and problem-solving.
Continuing Education Records
NMA is also authorized to grant CEU (Continuing Education Units) and maintains a database of ALL "continuing" efforts of NMA members. You, as an NMA member, are eligible to have a permanent record of all continuing educational activity through the chapter or company. A computerized record of these CEU will be kept and maintained on file for a period of not less than 25 years. Individual transcripts are available upon written request at no charge.
· Certified Manager Program
Learn about the CM certification requirements. The NMA encourages professional certification through the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM). The individual who receives the CM designation will acquire the recognition and status that accompany certification along with an increased sense of professional confidence and personal accomplishment.
Team Building
Chapters provide members with opportunities to support and trust one another—a unique environment where information is shared, decisions are made, and solutions are implemented through consensus. In essence, group knowledge and collaboration are valued.
Recognition
An NMA chapter fosters recognition of individuals, departments, and teams by highlighting and rewarding outstanding achievements. In today’s changing environment such opportunities are essential to keep morale and productivity high.
Networking & Informal Learning
Chapter members communicate and share information and expertise across departments, organizations, and among levels. Regional NMA sponsored events encourage understanding with-in diverse organizations. Community chapters provide an important area-wide cadre of dedicated professionals.
Coaching and Mentoring
The NMA chapter provides the forum for coaching potential leaders for their future roles. How?—by using existing resources to mentor those less skilled or experienced and working one-on-one to develop qualities and skills needed for tomorrow.
NMA provides guidebooks, workshop materials, and best practice summary information available to affiliated organizations.
Community Involvement
A chapter enhances your image throughout the community. It offers individuals an opportunity to get involved in local activities and build goodwill with civic organizations you choose to support.
Leadership Development Conferences (LDCs)
Each spring, NMA offers a series of Leadership Development Conferences (LDCs) around the country to equip new officers to assume leadership roles in the chapters. These 2-day workshops focus on goal setting, budgeting, membership promotion, networking, executive management interface, working with HRD, public relations, and community service. In addition, there are a number of continuing education unit (CEU) credit workshops that are offered.
Delegates meet other chapter representatives, members of the NMA staff, and many of the National Officers. Together, they share experiences, examine existing resources, and often find common solutions to common concerns. A very special group dynamic is created and participants go home with their batteries charged and a host of new ideas to try within their own chapters. Information about this year's LDCs can be found at http://nma1.org.
Annual Conference
This annual Conference, each fall, brings Association leaders and chapter members together from around the country. Attendees hear motivational speakers, attend timely educational forums, sign-up for workshops, and develop a new appreciation for the breadth and scope of NMA. Highlights of the Conference include the Member of the Year Award presentation, the NMA Hall of Fame induction, the presentation of The Executive of the Year, the Wilbur M. McFeely Award presentation, and the finals of the NMA Leadership Speech Contest. A special Recognition Luncheon honors all award-winning NMA chapters and councils. Three words characterize this unique Conference experience: Recognition, Education, and Networking.
Additional Member Benefits/Affinity Programs (go to: Member Benefits)
There are additional benefits offered to NMA members. Because of the size of the professional association, NMA is able to make a wide variety of group discounts and programs available.
Optional NMA Auto and Homeowner Insurance through GEICO (discount not available in all states)
Optional Life and Health Insurance
NMA Credit Card with low interest rates
IRS deductions on Association dues (may be recognized as a business expense)
