Issue link: http://psai.uberflip.com/i/1365946
ASSOCIATIONINSIGHT Portable Sanitation Association International News BIWEEKLY EDITION APRIL 28, 2021 Page 24 Participation Leads to Success…continued from page 23 The term "knowledge is power" had to be invented when someone was attending an association meeting. The exchange of ideas and hearing different perspectives on how to handle the same situations you are going through is invaluable. "The enthusiastic participation of people involved in the PSAI never ceases to amaze me as well as making me proud to be involved!" —Steve Finley, Armal 2. Listening to multiple speakers/panels/professionals, over a period of time, greatly enhances your overall knowledge of your profession. It is understandable that you may think you are doing your work so well there is nothing else to learn—at least not from others trying to figure it out just as you are. What about the last year? That came out of nowhere! Were you prepared for a worldwide pandemic? Well, nobody was, but the PSAI's bi-weekly roundtable discussions along with our virtual events last November and this April directly tackled how COVID is changing the industry. This included detailed talks on hand sanitation, sinks, special events, business practices, and industry standards during that crazy time. When nobody knows "THE" answer, the value of an association is that, together, we can develop SOME answers and learn from the experiences of others. "Always appreciate the individuals that are on the panels as they are in the business operating just like us and have very valuable insight on current situations they are seeing in their areas and it is always relevant to our business."—Anonymous survey respondent, Pennsylvania. 3. Seeing the same people in the industry allows you to develop strong professional relationships and opportunities. Here are two very important things I have learned in the two years I have been part of the PSAI staff. First, people in this industry stay in it, which means the relationships you create can be helpful over the long haul. Second, a few times I have been sad to hear someone is moving on to a new opportunity, only to be happy to see they transitioned to another PSAI member company. It was their relationships and connections that made that growth or change happen. "I wanted to share that I will be remaining in our close-knit industry. I have accepted [a new position with a different member company]. Truly a great opportunity to arise just at the exact time it needed to."—Email to the PSAI office from a member 4. Getting involved in professional industry meetings allows you to practice leadership among your peers by heading up an event or chairing a committee. You are a leader in the field. The PSAI is the perfect place for you to extend your leadership reach and influence. In addition to leading committees, you can moderate panel discussions or roundtables. Standing out from the crowd through service will not only garner respect from your peers, you will likely be rewarded with referrals and business opportunities. "I have gotten way more virtual benefit from my association with PSAI than any other source since this stupid pandemic thing reared its ugly head. Keep up the good work. I am happy to help when I can. Thanks again to you and everyone at PSAI." —Bill Gibson, JAG Mobile Solutions Steve Finley Bill Gibson Continued on page 25