Why Join a Marketing Professional Association?
Marketing is constantly evolving—what worked five years ago (or even last year) might not cut it today. Staying ahead requires ongoing education, networking, and access to industry trends. That’s where professional marketing associations come in.
According to Indeed, the world’s #1 job site with over 580 million jobseeker profiles, professional organizations provide valuable resources that help members advance their careers, enhance their resumes, and expand their networks. Many of these groups require members to demonstrate specific skills, educational backgrounds, or pass a selection process, ensuring high-quality peer engagement and industry credibility.
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, expand your network, or gain industry recognition, joining a marketing association can be a smart move. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one? We’ve broken down the top five professional associations for marketing professionals, including their benefits, pricing, and what makes each unique.
Best Marketing Associations for Career Growth & Networking
1. American Marketing Association (AMA)
Website: https://www.ama.org
Membership Criteria: Open to students, professionals, and academics in marketing and related fields.
Price Range: $199/year for professionals, $29/year for students.
What Makes AMA Stand Out?
AMA is one of the largest and most recognized marketing associations, offering local chapters, educational resources, and professional certifications for marketers at all levels.
Members gain access to:
- A comprehensive marketing research library filled with case studies, whitepapers, and reports.
- Discounted certifications such as the Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) credential.
- Local and national networking events, including the AMA Symposium for the Marketing of Higher Education.
- Publications like Marketing News and Journal of Marketing to stay on top of industry trends.
With a strong focus on education, certification, and networking, AMA is an excellent resource for marketers looking to build credibility and stay ahead of industry trends.
2. Association of National Advertisers (ANA)
Website: https://www.ana.net
Membership Criteria: Open to brands, agencies, and individual marketing professionals.
Price Range: Corporate memberships vary; individual memberships start at $295/year.
What Makes ANA Stand Out?
ANA is heavily focused on brand marketing, leadership development, and advertising effectiveness. Its membership primarily consists of leading brands, agencies, and corporate marketing teams.
Membership includes:
- Access to exclusive marketing research, industry reports, and benchmarking data.
- Leadership development programs designed for brand marketers.
- Over 20 specialized marketing committees covering topics like influencer marketing, content marketing, and data analytics.
- ANA conferences and summits featuring top executives from Fortune 500 brands.
For marketing professionals working within corporate branding, advertising, and strategic leadership roles, ANA provides deep industry insights and high-value networking opportunities.
3. International Advertising Association (IAA)
Website: https://www.iaaglobal.org
Membership Criteria: Open to individuals and organizations across all areas of marketing communications, including advertisers, agencies, media, and educators.
Price Range: Membership fees vary; details are available upon inquiry.
What Makes IAA Stand Out?
IAA is a global network that champions responsible marketing, providing a platform for professionals to collaborate and address industry challenges.
Membership advantages include:
- Global conferences and events that facilitate cross-border networking.
- Access to international marketing insights and best practices.
- Advocacy for freedom of commercial speech and responsible advertising.
- Educational initiatives to support professional development in global markets.
For marketing professionals engaged in international markets and cross-cultural campaigns, IAA offers a comprehensive network and resources to navigate global marketing challenges.
4. Mobile Marketing Association (MMA)
Website: https://www.mmaglobal.com
Membership Criteria: Open to professionals and organizations involved in mobile marketing.
Price Range: Membership fees vary based on company size and type; specific details are available upon inquiry.
What Makes MMA Stand Out?
MMA is dedicated to fostering innovation and growth in mobile marketing, providing members with insights into mobile consumer behavior and effective marketing strategies.
Members benefit from:
- Access to cutting-edge research on mobile marketing trends and best practices.
- Networking opportunities through global events and local forums.
- Educational resources including webinars, case studies, and training programs.
- Participation in industry committees to influence the future of mobile marketing.
For marketers focusing on mobile platforms and strategies, MMA offers essential resources and a global network to stay ahead in the mobile marketing landscape.
5. Association of International Product Marketing & Management (AIPMM)
Website: https://aipmm.com
Membership Criteria: Ideal for product managers, brand managers, and professionals involved in product marketing and management.
Price Range: $125/year for individual members; additional fees apply for certifications and training programs.
What Makes AIPMM Stand Out?
AIPMM is the only organization representing individuals managing the entire product lifecycle, offering resources for both product development and marketing.
Members gain:
- Access to comprehensive frameworks for product management and marketing.
- Professional certifications like Certified Product Manager (CPM) and Certified Brand Manager (CBM).
- Educational workshops and webinars focusing on product lifecycle management.
- Networking opportunities with professionals across various industries.
For those involved in product marketing and management, AIPMM provides specialized knowledge and credentials to excel in bringing products to market successfully.
Choosing the Right Marketing Association for Your Career
Selecting the right association depends on your career focus:
- For comprehensive marketing education and certification: AMA is a versatile choice.
- For advertising and creative industry connections: AAF offers valuable networking and advocacy.
- For mobile marketing expertise: MMA provides specialized insights and resources.
- For international marketing collaboration: IAA facilitates global networking and best practices.
- For product marketing and management: AIPMM delivers targeted support and certifications.
Is a Marketing Association Membership Worth It?
Professional associations are more than just networking groups—they’re career accelerators. Whether you want access to exclusive industry reports, job opportunities, professional certifications, or direct connections with marketing leaders, these memberships can help you stay ahead in the fast-changing world of marketing.
The right association can open doors, provide new insights, and help you build a stronger, more successful career in marketing. Explore your options and find the best fit for your professional goals!
