In my last post I asked, “Why should you join a professional organization?” There were so many great answers that I felt it deserved a follow-up post, recapping all the insight.
Tangibles:
There are a lot of resources a professional organization can help you find, like: magazines, newsletters, sample reports, case studies, conferences, awards, seminars, webinars… But, the people seem to be the real reason many communications professionals join.
B j Altschul, APR, Montgomery County Humane Society, summed it up with, “…the value of peer support and knowledge has been a key benefit of my PRSA membership.” Like many of us, Altschul has moved from city to city. Her moves brought new leadership opportunities and new friends through her new chapter.
Inspiring others:
Association for Women in Communications (AWC) member Tina Christiansen, Write as Rain® Communications, says: “These are the FIRST people I turn to when I need another professional to partner with on a project or to make a referral — or when I just need to bounce ideas around.”
“I also think volunteering for IABC activities is one of the best things anyone can do to build a personal brand. People get to know you as a person then, and not just a business card, resume or portfolio,” says independent writer and editor Richard Buse.
I liked this idea of building a personal brand. How are you known in the communications community? Many people may see me as the “BurrellesLuce woman.” But, I hope they also see me as a volunteer, leader, tweeter or another persona I try to exhibit.
Media and communications advisor Jason Berek-Lewis noted, “We live in a linked world and I believe that real value lies in having access to a large, international network of thinkers in strategic communications – that’s why I joined the IABC.” Mary Wilson, ABC, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri, agreed that the network has helped give her fresh ideas.
How are you using your professional community or organization to inspire you? Are you gaining the benefits of your membership?
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