Trade Organizations Painters Need To Know About

What Trade Organizations Do Painters Need To Know About

As a local pro, you don’t have to go at the job alone, even if it sometimes feels like it. Organizations and associations exist to assist you in business and professional growth. Through joining an organization, you gain a collective voice in your field and educate yourself on the needs of your industry. You can work together with other pros, even if you’re not working on the same job.

For painting pros, there are a few organizations and associations you can look into if you want to make the investment to become an active member of the local professional community. Here are the trade organizations all painters should know about:

Paint Roller

Painting & Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA)

As the only organization of its kind, the Painting and Decorating Contractors or America is the best organization for pros. According PDCA, they’re “dedicated to the success of painting and decorating contractors through ethics, education and excellence.” They support painting pros in many ways, providing local councils and chapters to help connect and educate pros in the area. The organization creates industry standard guidelines that ensure the professionalism and work ethic for their members in the field. The PDCA standards help contractors relay the quality of their work to customers and can be a benefit when bidding on a job.

Another great perk is their “Contractor College.” Painting pros can access educational videos, webinars and podcasts online that help assist with training directly related to the industry. Members can stay up-to-date on current events and what’s happening in business. Additionally, the PDCA hosts an annual trade show and expo for members to discuss hot topics in the industry.

For contractors looking to go the extra mile, PDCA also provides accreditation, which can be a huge boost for your business. You can provide customers with your accreditation as you bid on a job, differentiating yourself from the competition.

U.S. annual contractor membership starts at $299, but the organization has various payment plans for your convenience.

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Finishing Contractors Association (FCA)

If you’re a painting pro with other areas of expertise, the Finishing Contractors Association might be for you. They have a broader focus, with areas of expertise in drywall finishing, painting, flooring and wallcovering to name a few. They believe “a group has a larger impact than an individual” and works together on behalf of their members to educate and assist by providing customers with the best possible service.

The FCA focuses on developing leaders within the industry, providing them with research and educational resources. They have five committees based on the particular trade a pro specializes in. The FCA also provides members with a network of leaders and contractors to help them grow.

To learn more about membership prices and terms, please contact the organization via the link above.

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American Coatings Association (ACA)

As a non-profit organization, the American Coatings Association is “working to advance the needs of the paint and coatings industry and the professionals who work in it.” They focus mostly on paint products, research and development. This organization’s long history dates back to 1887, with its first meeting held in New York. The ACA works to provide educational events, like their annual American Coatings Conference. They also work with both local and national governments to speak on issues that impact the industry, such as sustainability issues.

This group doesn’t solely focus on painting contractors alone, but rather the industry of paint and paint products. If you’re interested in getting involved with the products being used and choosing the best for your customer, this could be a fascinating organization to join.

Contact the ACA to learn more about membership prices and benefits.

Painters Chatroom

If you’re not quite ready to make the investment in a trade organization or association, but want to meet other like-minded pros and discuss your trade, the Painters Chatroom is a good, free place to connect with others. This online forum is a great place to discuss hot topics in the painting industry and learn what others are doing to make their business successful. From humorous customer situations to tricks of the trade, you will find what you’re looking for at this forum. Be sure to read their code of conduct before posting to maintain compliance.

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How Joining An Organization Can Improve Your Business

After reading the above examples, you may still be wondering, “why?” It’s true that membership takes an investment of time and money. However, this is an investment that can have a great ROI for your business. Here are a few reasons to consider becoming a member of an organization:

  • Display your membership on your website so customers know that you’re taking the extra step to provide them with the best service. This can mean more business.
  • Anyone who desires to be successful in their career never stops learning. Organizations and associations provide educational opportunities that can help enhance your professional goals.
  • Success is best when working with others. Network with other local pros in your area to discuss industry topics and build relationships. As a result, it could end up turning into a referral if another pro can’t take a job.
  • Be a part of changing the industry. With an organization, you’re included in the larger voice advocating on behalf of painting pros nationwide.
  • If you’re interested in mentoring the next generation of pros, organizations provide plenty of leadership opportunities to meet, connect and give back.

Conclusion

By joining an organization, you’re not only benefiting your personal career, but the industry as a whole. You can become an active part of the pro painting community by simply becoming a member and making your voice heard. The investment will be great for you, other pros and your customers.

If you’re looking for other ways to collect more painting leads, consider signing up with CraftJack today.