Apply & Renew

FAQ: AEP Membership Key Contact

What is the key contact, and why does every organization have to have one?
Why can’t anyone from my organization have access to areas of the online database that a key contact has?
Who’s the best person to be the key contact?
How do I know who my organization's key contact is?
Is there anything I need to be a key contact?

What is the key contact, and why does every organization have to have one?
The key contact is the primary gatekeeper for your organization’s interaction with AEP. This person:

(a) Receives the membership renewal notices.
(b) Controls how the organization’s listing appears in AEP’s online membership directory.
(c) Has final say on who from the organization can be included in the membership.
(d) Will be central to your organization in the features arriving with AEP’s new, updated database.

As you know, with the exception of the Freelance/Individual Membership Category, ALL AEP memberships are organizational. This means that as many individuals from your organization as you want can be part of the membership. Your membership roster should have numerous individuals, so having one point person is practical and prudent.
Why can’t anyone from my organization have access to areas of the online database that a key contact has?
Protecting you organization’s brand and image in this day and age should be of paramount concern to all. By having only one person with access to information that will be viewed by many, we greatly reduce the opportunity for potential hacking or even accidental postings or errors by two or more individuals from the same organization.

With that said, key contacts can share their email and password as needed with their staff at their own discretion, so you are not literally restricted to only one person accessing your data. That’s a decision you make on your end.
Who’s the best person to be the key contact?
That’s a decision for you to make. Some members have the CEO or highest- ranking person serve in this capacity because they want the hands-on feel and control of the membership. Others have an executive assistant serve in this capacity, ensuring this hands-on approach but having the responsibilities assigned to someone close to them. Still, others appoint a person that best fits along their company’s needs, such as a Director of Education or Human Resources Manager.

You can change your key contact at anytime, so if someone is serving in this capacity and it isn’t right for them, you can easily change this by contacting AEP.
How do I know who my organization's key contact is?
If this isn’t shared with you at your company, contact Jo-Ann McDevitt. If Jo-Ann cannot be reached, any AEP staff member can assist you, so don’t hesitate to call at 856-241-7772.
Is there anything I need to be a key contact?
The main thing is to have a Web User account, which is your direct connection to AEP. A Web User account takes only a minute to set up and involves providing contact information and entering a password of your choice.

To create a Web User account, which is open to any AEP member as well as the key contact, go to http://www.secureaep.com.

For more information about AEP member services, contact Jo-Ann McDevitt at 856-241-7772.

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