Importance of being part of a professional network or association

I recently completed the Leadership in Administration Program at the Rotman School of Business at the University of Toronto. During one of the many discussions, I heard one of the instructors mention how it is more difficult for women to network as we mostly tend to keep our professional and personal networks separate and how we do not manage to give both equal or sufficient time. The instructor also mentioned the importance of establishing and maintaining a professional network and how much more essential it becomes as we continue to grow in our careers. 

Higher in our career, we are the more it becomes essential to have a robust professional network. 

Most of us, at some point in our careers, might have considered joining or joined a professional association. Some of us, like me, might be a part of an association now. Here, I share my learnings (or reasonings for that matter) as to why it is essential to be a part of a professional association or professional community (as I like to call it).

Alliance building / Networking opportunities

Being a part of a professional community provides us with many opportunities to connect with like-minded people, mentors, industry leaders and other individuals who are passionate about the same things as you are.

Stay current

Being a part of a professional community allows us to be more aware of industry standards, current topics and issues gathering attention or momentum within your profession.

Exclusive resources

Almost all associations have a members-only segment where we have access to a lot of relevant resources such as articles of interest, special programs and online Q&A platforms.  

Professional development

Associations offer regular professional development webinars or programs on current topics, technology and resources that would aid in improving your day-to-day work and further develop your career.

Education

Many associations also offer a professional designation. Having a professional designation or working towards one not only boosts self-confidence, but it also shows your current organization or prospective organization that you invest in life-long learning and proactively stays updated with current trends and technologies.

Resume Builder

Being a part of a professional community and/or having a professional designation is a resume booster. It shows your dedication and commitment to your profession and career.

Job search

Most professional associations also post and share new roles and opportunities through their member-only channels such as discussion boards, community boards, as well as email newsletters.

Discounts and offers

Professional associations also offer several discounts and offer from their sponsors and partner organizations that can be used for personal or professional purposes.  

Mentoring

Being a part of a professional community allows you to be more visible to industry leaders and senior professionals whom you can reach out to and connect with for mentoring and coaching purposes.

Time to recharge

Attending a professional association networking or professional development event is also an opportunity to relax, rewind and think introspectively. It gives you time to connect and learn from people within your profession who might be facing similar challenges or experiences.

What are your reasons for being part of a professional community? Please let me know by adding comments below.