Take Full Advantage of Your Membership: Increase Your Engagement
Membership in a professional society shows employers, colleagues and potential clients that you are dedicated and have a sincere interest in your field. That membership in and of itself helps you to standout and provides you with a number of member benefits. But, being an engaged member can benefit you even more.
How can you be a a more engaged member, and what are those benefits?
1) Join a committee. Joining a committee gives you the opportunity to learn about the inner workings of the organization and to help influence it. It also allows you to connect with other members who share your interests that you may not normally cross paths with.
2) Speaking opportunities. Help establish yourself as an expert in your field, recruit new members and fine tune your public speaking skills by speaking at events and universities.
3) Volunteer at society events. Many events put on at the chapter and national level require volunteers to make them run smoothly. Volunteer to host a chapter meeting, help with the auction at the annual meeting or simply reach out to your chapter leadership to see where your skills and support are needed.
The more engaged you are as a member the more you establish yourself as a leader within the organization. This can lead to leadership positions which will help you elevate your brand and reputation, and make you standout from the crowd. It will also help you hone your time management skills, expand your network and boost your resume.