By Paul Korte, PhD
It is vital to find colleagues with which to collaborate and consult regarding daily work activities and area of specialty. We rely on work colleagues and peers, but often times information from outside our immediate work environment is invaluable in advancing our skills and career.
- JOIN! There is an overabundance of professional organizations to choose from based on a profession, specialty area, or type of work setting. Joining a niche organization provides a cohesive group that focuses exclusively on a given interest area and can provide a wealth of information and consultation.
- Get Involved. Engagement helps to reap the benefits of membership. Organizations are constantly looking for volunteers to contribute to the mission. A little bit of courage to say, “I’m interested” is a huge step in learning more and meeting more colleagues who share in the same kind of work.
- Contribute. The “Imposter Syndrome” is real and we can easily find someone whom we feel is more expert than us. However, sharing our own expertise and experience may help others in their quest for information
Finding a professional home is enriching as the organization becomes filled with familiar faces and trusted information. Conference attendance solidifies the sense of belonging and is a great excuse to travel across the country!