Professional Organizations
Gain Experience through Professional Organizations
Professional organizations are local, national or international groups comprised of members who work or are interested in a specific career field. Professional organizations often focus on continuing education, professional development, advocacy or advancing professional standards. Professional organizations are great resources for career exploration and the job search.
Involvement with professional organizations can be a great way to develop skills, learn about career fields and network with professionals. Getting involved with professional organizations can build experiences to share with employers on your resume and in interviews.
Career Information: Often, professional organizations will offer a “careers” link or Web page providing information about pursuing career fields within the organization’s focus.
Publications: Many professional organizations have their own newsletters or journals, which are an excellent way to learn more about a career field and current issues.
Involvement: Involvement in a professional organization can include volunteering at conferences or with research projects, joining a committee or issue-based list serve, taking on a leadership role and much more. Getting involved with a professional organization can be an effective way to build relationships (and network) with professionals in your field.
Membership: Membership rates vary among professional organizations. Some organization Web sites offer a great deal of information for free while others require membership and a log-in more immediately.
Job Search Resources: Many professional organization Web sites will contain a job search or career link with information about job postings or job search tips.
Find a Professional Organization
Click here for a list of local professional organizations in various career fields.
Internet search engines are a great place to start your search. Searching for your career field along with “professional organization” often yields a helpful list. Asking colleagues, professors or networking contacts about their involvement with professional associations can be another effective way to learn about opportunities.