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(Excerpts from an article by Amy Lindgren , Knight-Ridder Newspapers, Printed in the Hartford Courant on Monday May 20, 1996)
Why should you join/ become actively involved in a professional association? When it comes to job security (or insecurity), there are four reasons:
· To conduct career-related research, such as which part of the industry is hot and which part is dying.
· To gain career enhancement through seminars and discussion groups.
· To make professional friends outside your company.
· To get the freshest job leads, before they’re advertised.
Career-changers also benefit form attending association meetings. It’s a good way to learn about an industry from the inside out, before you invest in training or an extensive job search. Once you have found an association that fits your needs, attend the meetings. Plan to follow these tips when you go to your next meeting:
· Set a goal for yourself. Why are you going? If it’s to network, plan to make a coffee date with at least one new acquaintance. If it’s to learn, bring a notebook and use it.
· Even if you’re the shy type, plan to be noticed. Dress professionally and bring business cards. Always put on a name tag and pay attention to the tags worn by others.
· Pay attention during the introductions. Really listen as each person gives a synopsis of his work and his company. Make a note of people you would like to meet.
· When it’s your turn to introduce yourself, be ready. Say your name and something that will help in conversation later: that you’re interested in learning about the field, or that you would like to meet people in your subspecialty, for example.
· It’s fine to announce that you’re interested in job leads, if you do it in a positive way. But do not break one rule for meetings: Never whine. No one will want to talk later if you stand up and complain about losing your job, or the sorry state of the economy.
· Volunteer for something. Anything. Book a speaker, collect he dues, type the minutes, write for the newsletter. Not only will you strengthen skills, but you’ll make yourself known and increase others’ indebtedness to you.
If you take this advice, you’ll be updating your resume very soon to include a new job. Professional associations are powerful tools for jobseekers!
Also, volunteering is an excellent way to enrich your career skills - just like they suggest at all those career management seminars! Access to the contacts and resources gained through volunteer work can in invaluable. |
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Does any of the above sound like something you would like to have a go at? Something you need to do for yourself? The Hartford Section Executive Board has several opportunities for you. Help with setting up Programs, greeting people at our events, behind the scenes jobs, and even this newsletter position are available. If you are interested in becoming an active member - contact our Chairman or send us an e-mail. |
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