President's Perspective
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The Real World

Recently I was listening to the lyrics of Matchbox 20’s “The Real World” and the words “I wish the real world just stop hassling me” lingered in my head. What is it about the word real that we have become so enamored with? Coke…It’s the real thing. “The Real Deal” phenomenon, Reality TV shows are among the most watched programs. The phrase, “get real” and the list goes on. Frankly, the real world can hassle each of us every day, but the degree in which it hinders or even helps us can be altered by the steps we take or the decisions we make…both in the short-term and in the long-term.

The Board met earlier this month to conduct its bi-annual association business meeting, but more importantly, to revisit its strategic plan which was developed 2 years ago. Not only does our business environment change, but the products and services of THA must be constantly re-tooled to effectively serve its member companies. The Board addressed several areas within the strategic plan that it believes should be modified.

The structures of the special interests groups have been redesigned to better emulate the global environment and the socio-economic factors that influence our businesses and ultimately the consumer. Members have been vocal in their requests for this Association to function as the industry spokes entity on issues that impact us all. The newly formed Legislative/Regulatory Relations Committee is now positioned to do just that. The ability and opportunity for us to gather with our peers and share our blessings with those who are in need will be coordinated through an industry-wide philanthropic initiative. Information sharing bolsters knowledge and knowledge is power. Additional resources along with a stronger focus will be redirected to the THA web site. Consumers visit our website daily in search of product information and legwear products themselves…where can they find them, where can they buy them? We are going to make it easier to provide them with the information and the products that they seek. Companies will soon be able to link their e-tailing sites to ours which should supplement their overall product sales. We believe that by addressing each of these newly defined areas, we are taking proactive strides in positioning THA as the “go to place for the legwear business.”

While it is easy for those who are disengaged or out of touch to criticize/question programs and activities, it is far easier to become involved and embrace an active leadership role. There are folks who may wonder what’s like to be the rainmaker, a super hero or even the head honcho, but we all face hurdles and challenges in our lives. When we look in the mirror each day, we should remind ourselves that we must be before we can do.