Every April, like clockwork, the dark blue envelope arrives in the mail. It always comes before the tax deadline and for me it signals a new professional year. Why? Its the renewal notice to my professional association. I can't remember the last time I went to an association meeting, but as I begrudgingly make out the check (which is tax deductible) I'm reminded that my association does more than host lunch and learn get-togethers. They are a pretty good job resource too.
If you are in the HR, accounting, legal, administrative, etc. fields and belong to an association, then the in-person networking is a real asset. But I'll share with you 5 ways you can use your association membership to your advantage if you are currently looking for work or will be soon.
- Search your association job board. Your association most likely has an online job board. These listings usually include contact and insider info you won't find on the big job boards.
- Get a member list. Ask for a list of members and contact for referrals and or inquires about new positions.
- Read your association's publications and newsletters. Take a look at these publications and see who's advertising in them--that's who you need to be contacting for a job. Find the company on LinkedIn and you might be surprised that you're connected to someone there already.
- Ask the editor if they can spotlight you in a future article. Ask to be featured in a member profile--editors are always looking for content for their publications and you can use the exposure to talk about your specific experience and/or skills.
- Follow your association by Twitter, Facebook etc. to stay informed of news. Follow and 'like' your association on the social media sites so you are the first to know of any new job openings, or companies looking to expand.
Until next time,
www.clicktogethired.com
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