subject: Finding Careers Through Professional Associations [print this page] There are many reasons why a professional association can be the perfect platform for you as an employer or someone looking for a job. To start, numerous professional groups and associations have a lot of resources that can be used for getting two people to get to know one another and form business contacts.
Most everyone uses the internet for business networking these days, and this is one of the most common ways to meet new people and learn about their interests and activities. While in the past these were mostly just social networking websites, times have changes and the onslaught of business networking sites has definitely made people more aware of the fact that the internet can be a valuable business asset. This is why sites like LinkedIn and many other professional organizations like Lee Hecht Harrison and associations like the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) have so many members.
With an online portfolio and history, a potential employer could easily search your profile for information about your past employment history and work experience.
You can also showcase your skills and educational background to get more people interested in your profile. Once you have become a member you can then go forth and look for ways to contact people for professional relationships. It is a good idea to be very attentive to the networking tools and be very prompt in responding to the potential employer which can increase your chances of being chosen. You should act like one normally would with a person who is interviewing you for a job. All the necessary etiquettes of employer attitude must be followed when talking to potential employers to show your professionalism.
All in all, when played right, professional associations can be a huge resource for you to start a career, or advance in the one you have already chosen!
