When a new member joins the NCA, sometimes they need a little help understanding the benefits of membership. And sometimes they even need help understanding the costume industry altogether! With that in mind, the NCA is reviving a practice that existed in past decades: a mentoring program for new members.
The program is simple but potentially powerful. When a new member joins, they will be matched with an existing member who has volunteered to be a mentor. We ask that the mentor reach out to the new member to set up a phone call, and remain in contact regularly for as long as the new member needs. Otherwise, there are no specific requirements to the program.
The existing member will help the new member with whatever they need. For example:
- Finding new vendors and discovering who sells what
- Using NCA benefits and discounts
- Getting into a different niche
- Maximizing a trip to a trade show
- Effectively organizing inventory
- Choosing a POS or online sales tool
- Just chatting about the industry!
The possibilities are endless, and the opportunity to develop a strong relationship is always a key part of this program.
"We envision the program as a way to help new members get the most from their membership and succeed in the industry," says Ed Avis, NCA executive director. "In the long run, having successful members helps the association thrive."
If you are willing to be a mentor, or if you would like to be matched with a mentor, please complete the registration form below.