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Negotiating to package the meetings of several different associations might more easily be done within an association management company, which usually serves various association groups under the same roof. Any small-staff association could partner with another association whose members have similar interests and needs.

While negotiating to package the meetings of several different associations might more easily be done within an association management company-which usually serves various association groups under the same roof-any small-staff association could partner with another association whose members have similar interests and needs. By planning the partnering associations' meetings to take place simultaneously, back-toback, or within a few days of each other, your association's members and staff can benefit in a number of ways.

Room rates. By bundling your meetings, you can block more rooms than either association could on its own. This enables properties to offer lower rates to your members. You and your partnering association can likewise receive more complimentary room nights and lower staff room rates, resulting in still lower costs for members.

Shared speakers. By sharing speakers on common-- interest issues such as technology or motivation, members from both associations can share perspectives with another industry, discuss common problems, and brainstorm solutions.

Shared expenses. With joint association functions, you can reduce the cost per participant by increasing guarantee numbers (e.g., for meal functions, entertainment, and recreational activities) yet still receive top-notch service and quality. By spreading entertainment and speaker expenses across larger numbers, you can also obtain otherwise unaffordable big-name speakers. Other areas for potential savings include purchasing bulk quantities of VIP amenities and awards for golf and tennis tournaments and other events.

Start by identifying overlapping areas of interest among your memberships that would provide for interesting and informative meeting presentations. Present the joint-association function concept to the respective association boards, and chart the potential cost savings.