Unfortunately, many of those in the security and investigation profession are also challenged by the affects of cognitive dissonance when deciding to join or support a professional association. Very few of those I meet while executing my duties as your president tell me that NCISS is unworthy of their support. Fewer yet, tell me NCISS has not done a good job in protecting their interests or fending off undesirable legislation or regulation. Instead I am told that NCISS and their association have cooperatively protected their businesses and our industries. A few breaths later, these same professionals sometimes wonder out loud, why they should join if the work is already being done? Of course the excuses are usually more thoughtful than that. The lack of money and/or time are among the more common explanations for non-membership I hear. And if you are reading this, you have undoubtedly heard (or thought) these excuses as well. The dissonance in the logic behind this rhetoric is deafening.

NCISS like all professional organizations require members to thrive. Membership dues, contributions of time and money, and thoughtful ideas allow those members to pursue and achieve the organization's objectives. In summary, from our bylaws, those objectives include the following:

1)    Monitor national legislative and regulatory activities affecting the investigation and security industry;

2)    Develop and encourage the practice of high standards of personal and professional conduct;

3)    Promote the purpose and effectiveness of the members and their organizations;

4)    Promote the investigation and security industry and educate members and the public;

5)    Promote the exchange of experiences, ideas and opinions;

6)    Cooperate for the purpose of mutual improvement and education;

7)    Acquire, preserve and disseminate information relative to the functions and accomplishments of all members and their organizations.

These objectives are worthy and honorable. But sadly, some professionals do not support them or even their state association. They shun membership and do not enjoy the camaraderie, the opportunity to learn or share experiences. Yet, they often enjoy the benefit of the labor of their state association and its hard working members.  So too do those who fail to join NCISS. Many know our work is important; yet they rationalize that the work is done by others who have more time, money or skill. The truth be told, we are all alike. We are honest, hard-working professionals intent on building principled businesses and making a fair and reasonable profit. We are in this together and together we must work.

To that end, help NCISS grow. If you are a member, recruit another member. If you are not a member, join today. If you represent a state association, support NCISS with a generous donation. Volunteer, participate and share your ideas. Make a difference and help the men and women of NCISS help you. And while you are at it, don't forget to buckle up!