Working Groups, where the heavy lifting of standards development and enhancement is done, are instrumental to ACORD. This is where members work with others to create new forms and data standards, discuss process improvements, and improve industry-wide data flow.

Those that take part have an important voice in this process. They also get to network with others who share their passion for specific areas such as employee benefits, claims management processes, or specialty lines. In the working groups, individuals share ideas and insights and in return get inspired by new concepts and ways of doing business.

Those who go farther and become working group chairs take the lead, drive the process forward, and truly transform how business is done creating efficiencies for their companies and the industry.

Events

Last year, we started working with advisory councils for our events. Carriers, solution providers, industry press, and analysts are among those who come together to discuss event programs, communications, networking opportunities, and overall flow. Events are for and about members and they have a voice in how things get done.

We've taken that concept even further now and are working with volunteers at our events. Opportunities include:

Mentoring First Timers

Mentors are paired with new attendees to enhance the experience. Some first timers come alone and can be lost in a big event. This way, we're ensuring that everyone is included and brought into the fold.

Hosting Sessions

This limited opportunity enables member volunteers to introduce speakers or moderator at sessions, make general announcements on behalf of ACORD and LOMA, and even share their insights on the topic.

Guiding Tours

Exhibit hall tours are an increasingly popular part of the forum, member volunteers will be able to lead these tours, gain new knowledge, and share any insights on the topic area they have from their own experience.

We want everyone to be an integral part of the event.

The Big Why?

So why do it? There are so many reasons. For one, it's a great chance to network with others that share your interests. Spend some time with another P&C or life person that works in a similar area. Share ideas, gain new contacts, and support each other.

On the development side, volunteering to be part of a working group is your chance to make your (and your company's) voice heard in the process. This is an opportunity to help shape the future of standards and the industry.

Personal satisfaction is also essential. We all feel that inner warmth from helping others, sharing expertise, and being a part of a larger group with shared goals. You also gain new knowledge and skills that you might never get if you weren't part of the action.

There are many more reasons, some tangible, and some not. But it all starts by saying yes and getting involved.

Tanya Krochta is vice president and chief administrative officer for ACORD. She manages ACORD's professional development program and the project management office to ensure ACORD's staffing and project needs are properly covered. She works directly with all staff members promoting education, collaboration and cooperation. Prior to joining ACORD she served as director of human resources at a northeast-based specialty retailer for 13 years. She has also earned her accreditation from the American Compensation Association (ACA).