Mr. Don Turner

I’ve been running businesses in the lodging and hospitality industry for more than 30 years including restaurant chains and lodging properties. I currently own a small inn in Berkeley, California, as well as a lodging property consulting company that specializes in "turning a sow’s ear into a silk purse." I’ve had challenges and successes along the way and have learned a great deal from my colleagues in the industry.

One of the most important lessons that I’ve learned about success in this great business is to find ways to get connected to your industry colleagues through professional and trade organizations.

Today, there’s a big push to retain private management "coaches" to support your venture (and charge you thousands of dollars). Although this is certainly valuable, there is nothing better than involvement with others who are working in your own industry and region. These people often become your mentors and help you learn through their experiences. The tremendous opportunities that will come your way by tapping into the diversified skills and talents offered by both the staff and membership of a strong lodging trade association far outweigh your investment of time, money and personal involvement.

As the current board chair of the California Lodging Industry Association (CLIA), I can tell you that our members have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that you won’t find anywhere else. If you are growing your business in this ever-changing business and economic climate, I would highly recommend this resource. Nearly every state, county, or region has some kind of lodging trade association where you can exchange information, attend educational seminars, and network with your colleagues.

At CLIA, each of our board of directors has deep ties to the California lodging industry and a commitment make a contribution to an industry that they have benefited from so much.

This year, CLIA celebrates 60 years serving the California lodging industry. A small group of lodging property owners started the organization in 1946, during the post-war roadside lodging boom, as the Motor Hotel Association of California. In a 1948 archived newsletter from the Motor Hotel Association, a member wrote:

"In the highly organized business world of today, an Association is an absolute necessity not only to that vague thing we call "the industry," but to me and my business, personally. If there were no Association today, you and I would be busy forming one in our own defense."

In 2006, that highly complex business world is even more multifaceted and we are reeling in sorting out the truly valuable information. Your trade association goes a long way in doing that for you. If you are a California property owner, I invite you to visit CLIA at www.clia.org or contact me below.

Sincerely,

Don Turner
Chair
California Lodging Industry Association

joraddon@sbcglobal.net