A Simple Yes That Changed Everything
It still seems like yesterday when former Triangle AMA President Mihali Stavlas asked me to volunteer for the chapter. He had just started in his new role and was lining up friends to help him. Okay. Sure. Happy to help, I told him. Count me in.
Little did I know that simple decision would take me on a volunteer journey that lasted over a decade, a journey that produced lifelong friends, endless friendly and fruitful business relationships, ongoing opportunities to lead a dedicated group of individuals, and an exposure to “all things marketing” that I wouldn’t have found anywhere else.
And yet, the Triangle AMA isn’t about the content.
You can find marketing info now just about anywhere, and you can improve your marketing skills and knowledge by tapping into a plethora of programs online. There’s no shortage of offerings available.
It Starts With One Connection
But what those programs can’t offer are human connections—the ability to connect with people, sometimes on a deep, personal level. If COVID taught us anything (and there were lessons galore), it was that we desire to be around other people. We like seeing new faces and learning about the careers behind them. We enjoy sharing news and insights. And we like working with others toward a common goal, such as volunteering. There’s no greater reward than being a part of something bigger than yourself and seeing the fruits of your labor (and the labor of others) result in a shared experience.
So, if you are on the fence about whether or not to join the AMA—consider this:
Don’t do it for knowledge alone.
Do it for the people you will meet along the way.
Who knows? One of them might even ask you to volunteer, putting you on a path of deep friendship and camaraderie. It doesn’t get better than that.
Wishing you all the best in your marketing career.
Gene Pinder
Immediate Past President
Interested in joining AMA Triangle?
For a limited time, you can save 15% on your membership as part of our April membership drive. Whether you’re looking to grow your network, sharpen your skills, or get more involved in the marketing community—this is your moment.
Use code TriangleDiscount and join today to save 15%. To learn more about AMA Triangle, check out membership benefits.
