It’s hard to disagree that association involvement is helpful to one’s career, but it’s necessary to understand your objectives before selecting these important commitments. The types of associations with which you choose to get involved can add value to your professional experience in very different ways.
First, I am proud of you. Life is very busy. Taking the time to get involved is a big step; After all, it’s not easy to stay focused on external commitments when you have more work than you have hours to execute it. Then add the demands of your personal life, and well, there isn’t much room left. This makes it all the more important to choose wisely.
When counseling others on how to position their careers toward their long term goals, I break these types of groups into two flavors: Professional Associations, and Industry Associations.
Professional Associations are excellent resources for YOU, the professional, to hone your skills and knowledge within your specialization, including continuing education, and keeping abreast of new technologies which may affect you and your clients.
Industry Associations, where clients, peers, competitors, and vendors gather are useful for other reasons. They are focused on your Client’s business, and allow you an opportunity to learn more about your customer. Meetings can be an outstanding source of early intelligence regarding future bid opportunities, as well as where potential teaming partners are sized up.
I think participation in both is important in planning your career, with an emphasis in the latter for those who wish to distinguish themselves in business development. If your objective is technical luminary status, perhaps your emphasis should be on the former. Regardless, they’re all worthy outlets for your time, and participation will set you apart from the rest.
Leave A Comment