Why it's Important to Join Organizations . . .

Hey you, c'mon stop being lazy and join something!

As a college student and young professional, we are constantly having to prove ourselves. We are at a very critical stage in our lives where we could easily be overlooked for our age, experience and capabilities. As a result, we have to work twice as hard to let the world know, WE CAN DO IT! Proving ourselves means we have to go above and beyond the call of duties. Simply having a degree, internship or job is the minimal expectation. What are doing to exceed the standard? Joining professional organizations is a GREAT idea for a couple of reasons. It automatically shows that you are proactive in getting more deeply involved in your area of interest, you have exclusive opportunities, you get to network with professionals you may not otherwise have access to, more icing on your resume, volunteer opportunities, events, mentors . . . . I mean, seriously I could go on and on. Bottom line is that if you are truly interested in building your craft and accelerating your career (and well, let's face it your personal life as well) it is imperative that you do the necessary research to find an organization that suits your needs.

We have to step outside our comfort zones and do more than simply go to work and think that is sufficient. We have to figure out other ways for us to expand our knowledge and network. We represent our selves aka our brand and the only way to truly market yourself is to PUT YOURSELF ON THE MARKET. Duh! How do you do that? Well, for starters you become apart of something greater than yourself. Not only will you feel rewarded, but you will now set yourself apart from the competition. Don't just join one organization, join as many as you'd like (or can afford). Many of us have several interests and being apart of affiliations will allow you to tap into all of your passions.

Whether you join to further your career or simply for social reasons, I have no doubt that you have made the right decision to get involved.

Be proactive and join whatever it is, TODAY!

P.S. If you search the FAB blog, there are several organizations for you to join!

P.S.S. Ask your company about reimbursement. Many companies will pay for your membership (if fee is required).

P.S.S.S. Are you a member of FAB? JOIN TODAY, it's FREE!