3 Reasons Millennial Outdoor Communicators Should Join POMA

Let me tell you all about the value of POMA, or the Professional Outdoor Media Association.

Since joining the organization last October, it’s brought me countless freelance writing opportunities, connections, new friends—all the while opening up many doors for me professionally.

If you’re an aspiring outdoor communicator—whether a writer, a TV host, a social media influencer, a filmmaker, a magazine publisher, or a podcaster—this group is for YOU.

Here are three reasons why Millennials who are outdoor communicators, current or aspiring, should join the organization.

It’s Forward-Thinking

My decision to join POMA was solidified because it’s forward-thinking. No, not the politically progressive, tutti-frutti attitude that’s mistakenly associated with forward-thinking behavior. I’m talking about POMA being modern in its approach with social media usage, branding, and appealing to the next generation of communicators while still clinging onto the values we hold so dear.

Individuals spanning all facets of the conservation spectrum, whether they are more inclined to sporting or environmental interests, are all welcomed. Yet, you won’t see POMA compromising on gun rights or hunting access. That’s very refreshing.

There’s a great mix of Gen X’ers and Millennials. That’s what I love that about POMA. I saw this when I attended a recent press conference at SHOT Show 2019 and the POMA Business Conference in Wichita, KS last month, respectively. The board reflects this too. That’s how you know an organization is forward-thinking.

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A Great Return-on-Investment (ROI)

Don’t be deterred by the $200 fee required to join. Yes, it’s a steep price point for membership. At first, I was dissuaded from joining because of the price. Yet, the maxim is true—you get what you pay for.

Outdoor media organizations that *generally* charge cheaper membership dues may not be the best investment in terms of return-on-investment (ROI). It depends on the organization, though there are exceptions to the rule in organizations like Florida Outdoor Writers Association and similar ones.

Some organizations may be cheaper, but are you getting anything valuable about of it? The connections? The media placement? The leads on the job board? The opportunity to win awards? If you’re realizing shortcomings in that department, consider switching today.

In the time I’ve held membership, I’ve made at least 10-11 times the amount I’ve invested in the organization. That, my friends, is a great investment. And it’s not simply about making money. It’s about forging valuable connections and friendships in the industry too.

Forging Meaningful Connections and Friendships

Like the importance of forging meaningful connections in politics, this practice is equally important in outdoor media. Networking with a purpose, not simply out of convenience, is the way to go. It entails developing relationships online and in-person—especially through avenues like POMA. Those relationships carry great weight, aren’t to be taken for granted, and are established on shared goals.

Since 2015, I unknowingly befriended many POMA members online and in-person. Thanks to attending events like SHOT Show, ICAST, SEOPA Conference, and NRA Annual Meetings, I got to meet them and befriend them at every turn. They are some of the most brilliant, friendly, and talented bunch you’ll ever meet. Many have been helpful to me personally, served as guests on my podcast and as sources in articles I’ve written.

POMA may be small, but it’s a growing organization. Just recently, I’m told, they exceeded the 500 member mark. Talk about growth!

If you need more convincing on the #ValueofPOMA membership, see it here for yourself.

Did this inspire you to look into POMA? I hope so! Please let me know if you have any questions about membership and its many benefits. Check out their website and follow POMA on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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