What Is American Marketing Association (AMA)?

August 25, 2024 4 min read Marketing Professional Societies American Marketing Association AMA Marketing Research Advertising Professional Society

The American Marketing Association (AMA) is a national professional society headquartered in Chicago that caters to marketing professionals, including executives, researchers, sales managers, promotion managers, and marketing educators. It provides valuable resources like Marketing News, the Journal of Marketing, and the Journal of Marketing Research.

American Marketing Association (AMA): National Professional Society of Marketing Experts

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The American Marketing Association (AMA) is a premier national professional society headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, dedicated to bringing together experts in the field of marketing and marketing research. The association’s membership includes a diverse group of professionals such as marketing and marketing research executives, sales and promotion managers, advertising specialists, and marketing educators.

Core Functions

Publications

Marketing News: A biweekly publication providing the latest insights, trends, and news in the marketing world.
Journal of Marketing: A leading academic journal that publishes scholarly articles on a wide range of marketing topics.
Journal of Marketing Research: A specialized journal that focuses on the methodology and implications of marketing research.

Educational Resources

The AMA offers a variety of educational materials to support marketing professionals, including:

Marketing Bibliographies: Comprehensive lists of the most relevant and up-to-date sources in various areas of marketing.
Books and Pamphlets: Educational content covering a broad spectrum of marketing topics, from basic principles to advanced strategies.

Membership Benefits

Networking

Being a part of AMA allows members to connect with a vast network of marketing professionals. This can lead to opportunities for collaboration, sharing of best practices, and career advancement.

Professional Development

AMA members have access to workshops, seminars, and conferences. These events are designed to aid professional growth by providing the latest information on new marketing technologies, methodologies, and trends.

Historical Context

Founding

The AMA was established in 1937 through the merger of the National Association of Marketing Teachers and the American Marketing Society. This union was aimed at creating a single, more powerful body to advocate for the interests of marketing professionals.

Evolution

Over the decades, the AMA has grown significantly both in membership and influence. It has expanded its role to become a foundational pillar in the continuing education and certification of marketing professionals. The AMA now serves as a critical hub for marketing knowledge, practice, and innovation.

Applicability

Industry Impact

The AMA plays a crucial role in shaping marketing practices. By publishing research and conducting professional development activities, it ensures that marketing professionals are well-equipped to meet the challenges of a constantly evolving marketplace.

Academic Influence

Through its scholarly journals, the AMA contributes to the academic field by providing rigorous, peer-reviewed research that informs both theoretical developments and practical applications in marketing.

Comparisons

Similar Organizations

Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM): Based in the UK, CIM offers certification programs and has a global outreach similar to the AMA.
Market Research Society (MRS): Focused primarily on market research, MRS provides resources and networking opportunities for research professionals.

Marketing Research: The process of gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information about a market.
Advertising: The act of promoting a product or service through diverse channels.
Sales Management: The discipline of managing a company’s sales operations.
Promotion Management: The strategic planning and execution of promotional activities to boost sales.
Marketing Education: The field focused on teaching and training individuals in various marketing concepts and practices.

FAQs

What types of certifications does the AMA offer?

The AMA offers the Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) certification in various specializations, including content marketing, sales management, and digital marketing.

How can I join the AMA?

Membership can be obtained through the AMA’s website, where individuals can sign up and pay the requisite fees to access the society’s resources.

How often are AMA conferences held?

AMA conferences are held multiple times a year, with various events focused on specific aspects of marketing like digital marketing, academia, and professional services.

References

American Marketing Association. (2023). About AMA. Retrieved from AMA website.
Journal of Marketing. Various Issues. Retrieved from Journal of Marketing.

Summary

The American Marketing Association (AMA) stands as a beacon for marketing professionals by providing critical resources, educational materials, and opportunities for professional development and networking. With its rich history and extensive array of publications, the AMA continues to shape the future of marketing practice and education.