Program Overview

For the past several years, CMAA has acted as the clearinghouse for club staff exchanges through its International Staff Exchange Directory, which lists internship-like positions at clubs across the United States and abroad. By taking advantage of the opportunities listed in the directory, club staff can gain valuable experience at different clubs and a new perspective on club operations and management.

The CMAA National Headquarters serves only as a clearinghouse for these positions. Potential candidates should contact participating clubs directly to arrange an exchange.

Benefits for Participating Clubs

An effective club staff exchange program can successfully contribute to club operations for both the “inviting” club as well as the club that opts to send its staff member(s) on international education excursions. Inviting clubs receive qualified and experienced staff to bring alternative perspectives on how other cultures approach club operations. Clubs that send their staff overseas benefit by having the employees return professionally inspired and equipped with a unique international perspective.

It is essential that both a “sending” club as well as an “inviting” club make very clear in advance the conditions on which staff exchanges will occur. Questions about travel expenses, housing, accommodations and costs, wages, etc., must be clearly defined in advance to ensure that the exchange program operates efficiently.

Club Expectations of the Participants

Participants should be expected to apply their own club operations experience to their positions. Conversely, they should be able to apply what they learn during the exchange program when they return to their home club. The participants should also begin to learn and develop new professional work habits and increase their level of professional maturity. They should also learn to adapt to the culture and observe the traditions of the countries they visit.

It is the responsibility of participants to be aware of the terms and conditions of employment. The participants must be able to perform up to the standards identified by the employers. They must undertake projects requested by their employers with enthusiasm and creativity. Participants should also recognize their role as representatives of their “sending” clubs. With this in mind, it should be made clear to the participants that they should conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times.

Expectations of the “Inviting” Clubs

During the exchange program, inviting clubs should be prepared to expose the participant to a productive work environment while providing intensive insight about the area of club operations that the individual is there to learn about. In addition, an orientation is an important component of the program.

Further, if it is a paid position, the participant should be paid the same as others doing similar work.

How to Participate

To participate in the 2008 directory, please compete the questionnaire (.pdf) and return it to the CMAA National Headquarters by September 21, 2007.