Professional associations are one of the most underutilized career development resources by WashU students. Professional associations are organizations that represent the interests of individuals in a specific profession or industry. They are typically non-profit entities that aim to advance the profession, support the professional development of their members, and maintain high standards within the industry.
Often there is a national organization as well as state and/or local chapters. There are 386 trade/professional associations in the Greater St. Louis metro area, alone! In the early phases of your exploration and career you will gain the most from member-benefit professional organizations. In other words, you “join” the organization (perhaps you ask to visit a meeting first to be sure you want to join). Sometimes this means paying a membership fee, but student fees are often reduced or waived… so it’s a smart time to consider jumping in.
Benefits:
Professional associations can be a valuable resource when you’re considering career options, looking to build your network, or wanting to increase your candidacy for an internship or job. Here are several ways these associations can help:
- Industry Insights and Trends: Professional associations often provide members with access to the latest industry news, trends, and research. This information can help you understand the current and future landscape of a particular field, aiding in making informed career decisions.
- Networking Opportunities: Joining a professional association allows you to connect with others in the field. Networking can lead to mentorship opportunities, job leads, and insights into various career paths within the industry.
- Professional Development: Many associations offer workshops, seminars, and conferences that can help you develop new skills and knowledge. This can be particularly useful for those looking to enter a new field or advance within their current one.
- Certification and Accreditation: Some associations offer certification programs that can enhance your professional qualifications. Holding a recognized certification can make you more competitive in the job market.
- Job Boards and Career Services: Many professional associations have job boards, career counseling services, and resume review programs. These resources can be instrumental in finding job opportunities and preparing for interviews.
- Community and Support: Being part of a professional association provides a sense of community and support. This can be especially valuable during times of career transition or when entering a new industry.
- Ethical Standards and Best Practices: Associations often promote ethical standards and best practices within the industry. Understanding these can help individuals align their values with their chosen career path and make more informed decisions about where they want to work.
- Visibility and Recognition: Membership in a professional association can enhance a person’s visibility and credibility within the industry. It can also provide recognition for achievements and contributions to the field.
Finding Prominent Professional Associations:
- Internet Search: A simple online search using keywords related to your industry and terms like “professional association” can yield a list of relevant organizations.
- LinkedIn and Social Media: Many associations have LinkedIn pages or groups where they post updates, events, and resources. Joining these groups can also help you connect with other professionals in your field.
- Colleagues and Mentors: Asking colleagues, supervisors, or mentors in your field can provide valuable insights into which professional associations are well-regarded and beneficial. They can share their experiences and recommend associations that have been useful to them.
- Job Boards and Career Websites: Some job boards and career websites (like Indeed, Glassdoor, Idealist) may list professional associations in their industry guides or resources sections.
- Government and Regulatory Bodies: Fields involving certifications or licensure (like healthcare, engineering, and finance), government or regulatory bodies may provide lists of recognized professional associations.