The majority of online reviews are personal (and subjective), however. This begs the question: what do professional recommendations look like? There are organizations that track reviews, and complaints, as well as articles, and government-supported research.

But one of the best ways to get a professional recommendation is through an association membership. Members of professional locksmith associations in particular get to enjoy certain benefits, perks, and, most importantly, the trusted reputation that comes with being a member.

In short, these associations matter. Let’s discuss why.

Benefits of Professional Locksmith Association Membership

Locksmith companies don’t just list the associations they partner with for show. These partners have real benefits, and can be the deciding factor between one locksmith and another. Here are a few of the benefits of a professional locksmith association membership:

• Professional development opportunities: to keep skills sharp via presentations, trade shows, and so forth.
• Technical resources: to better identify desired information and find security solutions.
• Industry backing: members of these associations have met strict requirements, and follow best practices of the industry.
• Discounts, and savings: which can potentially be passed on to customers.
• Peace of mind: knowing you’re working with a legitimate, trustworthy company.

Professional Locksmith Association Membership Criteria

The criteria for membership with these associations varies depending on the specific organization, but in general, professional locksmiths have to meet criteria similar to the following to gain acceptance as a member:

• Complete an official membership application
• Be an adult and have experience for at least a certain time period (e.g. six months)
• Have received approved educational or on-the-job locksmith training
• Agree to pay membership dues, and fees

There are also different tiers/levels for, some associations, as well as bonus perks or recognition for being active members for a certain number of years.

The Most Trusted Professional Locksmith Associations

There are several associations in the industry that have earned the esteem of industry vets over time. These organizations have experience, knowledge, and a proven track record of delivering results, and finding, solutions for customers. When a locksmith, or locksmith company, is a member of one or more of these associations, you can have more peace of mind about hiring them.

Here are the professional locksmith associations we partner with at A-1 Locksmith:

• Texas Locksmith Association (TLA)
• Safe & Vault Technicians Association (SAVTA)
• The Associated Locksmiths of America, Inc. (ALOA)

To learn more about these professional locksmith associations, and how they benefit you as a customer, contact A-1 Locksmith today!

When you have to get a filling for a cavity, for example, don’t you feel better knowing your dentist is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA)?

Locksmithing is no different. Professional associations like Safe & Vault Technicians (SAVTA), Texas Locksmiths Association and ALOA Security Professionals have strict requirements for membership. Here’s why it matters that your locksmith company is a member of one or more of these groups.

What Are Professional Locksmith Associations?

Professional locksmith associations are industry-recognized groups comprised of professional locksmiths (or those who provide professional locksmith products, and services). These associations have strict standards for membership—and different levels of membership as well. There are quite a few locksmith associations out there, from those with a national focus to those with a regional or local focus. For example, ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) is a national group, while the Texas Locksmiths Association is limited to locksmiths in Texas.

What Do These Associations Do?

These associations provide more than just a certificate a locksmith can hang on the wall or a badge for their website. Membership includes several benefits that help locksmiths increase or maintain their credibility, such as:

• Networking: Locksmiths get to share knowledge, tips, and tricks to improve their business at conferences, and other events.
• Law updates: Laws often change (especially at the state level) and these associations help their members stay updated on the latest codes, and regulations.
• Continuing education: Most associations require their members to maintain their membership with continuing education courses related to locksmithing. 

In addition to these, certain associations may have their own perks, such as a magazine publication or smartphone app. These all help locksmiths with their professional ability.

Why Do These Associations Matter?

To put it plainly, membership in a professional locksmith association means that the locksmith knows what he or she is doing. There are plenty of individuals out there who will provide locksmithing services, yet aren’t licensed or members of any association. There’s no guarantee these people will fix your problem or provide satisfactory service. When you hire a locksmith or locksmith company that is a member of one or more professional locksmith associations, on the other hand, you can have peace of mind that they’re updated on the latest industry standards, and that you’ll be receiving quality services from them.

If you’re in need of locksmithing services, trust a team that’s part of several professional locksmith associations. Give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at 972-284-7500!