There are, (or were,) certain distinct benefits to being formally inducted. But, on the other hand, there were also definite liabilities to the position as well.

Conversely, so-called "associates," who ran the gamut from lowly nobodies, to extremely important and powerful figures, also had benefits and liabilities to their positions.

But, quite frankly, when you speak of the top-tier, the "top ranked" associates. The men who had lucrative million-dollar rackets and businesses, were considered real street savvy and were "capable" too, those fellas were almost considered the same as a formally inducted guys. (And in some cases, they even ranked higher and held more respect than them.)