If you’re still sat on the fence about joining a professional membership association and you haven’t yet read our Top 10 Benefits of Joining a Professional Membership Associationpost, then stop what you’re doing and click on the link!
If you’ve already read our blog, but still need convincing, read on to explore 10 MORE perks you could benefit from if you join an industry relevant association.
Education
Your professional membership will often grant access to exclusive learning experiences, such as industry tailored webinars and certificated training courses. Access to this will keep you informed about niche aspects of your field and offer exclusive insights to topics that may not be publicly available.
Credibility
Holding membership within a respected association instantly elevates your professional image. Being affiliated with an organisation demonstrates your commitment to maintaining high standards within your work, and a willingness to align with the best industry practices.
Platform to Discuss
Associations open up your network and create platform for discussions, where members can engage in meaningful dialogue about their industry. These platforms allow for knowledge-sharing and provide an avenue for members to seek advice, discuss challenges and brainstorm solutions with peers.
Recognition
Many professional membership associations offer awards programmes and recognition throughout their industry. Winning, being nominated, or even being involved in judging these awards will enhance your visibility to well-known figures within your industry.
Have Your Say
Joining an association allows you to participate in shaping your industry’s future. By contributing to association committees and roundtables members will be given chance to help with the development of policies, standards, and initiatives that impact the industry as a whole.
Mentorship
Associations often run mentorship programs, which pair up experienced professionals with those emerging within their sector. Offering structured mentorship opportunities adds to both the personal and professional growth of both the mentor and mentee.
Exposure
Membership associations help develop professional networks within their industry. Memberships offers a chance to connect with like-minded professionals on a national and sometimes international level. Attending events across the country will allow members to gain insights and experience to how their industry operates in different regions.
Tools & Guides
Depending on the industry, holding a membership in an association may provide members with early access to new software, or trial runs of new processes and policies, giving them a head start before upcoming changes are implemented.
Reach
Associations often organise engagement programmes throughout their industry. Participating in these activities will allow members to interact with other professionals and build a reputation within their trade.
Help with Work-Life Balance
Since the pandemic there has been a growing emphasis on promoting a healthy work-life balance. Many associations offer resources tailored to help members manage work stress and manage their time.
Let us know in the comments what benefits you’re looking for from a professional membership association.
