Building a professional network is critical to your success as a working professional. The more people you know, the more resources you have available to you, your boss, and your employer. As much as I love and appreciate Google, Google is NOT the best resource. Your best resource is the people you have built a relationship with and have sustained over a period of time.
I have joined multiple professional associations over the last couple of decades. My membership in these associations has given me the opportunity to meet numerous people. Being a member of a professional association has many advantages. These include:
- Receive professional publications
- Learn about employment opportunities related to your profession
- Seek out and accept leadership positions
- Show the initiative to take charge of your career
- Learn about professional development opportunities by attending Webinars, conferences, and other training programs to broaden your knowledge
- Build and expand your network of working professionals in your chosen career
- Stay abreast and current on trends in your profession
- Provide additional bullets on your resume to indicate to a potential employer that you are connected to your industry and have a strong network
Belonging to professional associations has been fun, and it’s a great investment. I’ve met some incredible individuals over the years and many have become my good friends. I encourage you to join an association today and become involved in growing your career success.