Close

At NAID, the door is always open

August 9, 2013

By Bob Johnson, NAID CEO

With NAID member locations nearing 2,000, I am sure it won’t surprise anyone to learn that between emails and phone calls, I personally communicate with scores of industry professionals every week. And, even though colleagues and consultants have told me that being so accessible in an organization of this size is not the norm and a big drain on time, I have insisted on answering my own emails and taking (or returning) every call for me without a gatekeeper. Once in a while someone will even say “I never expected to talk to you directly.”

Would members understand if I did filter my phone calls and emails? Maybe, maybe not. For me, that is not the real issue. I view those calls and emails, whether they are compliments, complaints, suggestions or questions, as invaluable insights into our members’ world.

And, it’s not just me that feels that way. NAID board members, both officers and directors, feel the same way. They don’t get as many NAID calls and emails as I do, but they sure appreciate it when they do.

There is no reason for any member to feel uncomfortable or bothersome when they want to talk to me or a NAID board member about an issue that concerns them or a question they have. It is not just an obligation, it is our privilege to get those calls and emails. And, as for such interactions being a burden; nothing could be further from the truth. Members are doing the industry a service when they reach out to discuss such issues and questions arising in the trenches.

My direct line is 602-788-6243, ext. 2001, and my email is [email protected]. Contact information for your elected board members is on the NAID website. So, don’t be shy and don’t be a stranger. NAID is here because of members’ support and its board of directors and staff are here to support you. We appreciate and value your input greatly.