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Looking for your Dream Job? Join the Club!
By Jill Meridith
Member
Florida Public Relations Association
We've all heard the old job search adage, “It's not what you know, it's whom you know.” It often takes being in the right place at the right time to land the perfect position. But how do you meet the movers and shakers in your industry? How do you get valuable face time with those who have the right connections? One practical and fun way to get to know the people in the know is through involvement with professional organizations.
The Florida Public Relations Association's (FPRA's) local chapters meet monthly. A recent luncheon was held at Daytona International Speedway's (DIS's) state-of-the-art media center. “The Daytona 500 alone brings more than twice as many fans as the Superbowl to the Speedway ,” according to DIS manager of publicity, Kathy Catron. Guests at the presentation, local leaders in the industry, got an insider's view of “what it's like to put on an event of Olympic proportions.” From security and technology issues to coffee service, the program provided practical industry tips as well as a fascinating look at the inner workings of this unique and exciting business.
FPRA's monthly meetings often showcase local businesses. Panel discussions on hot topics, mentoring programs and meaningful networking opportunities are all benefits of joining this organization and others like it. Students are often invited to join at a discounted rate.
As early as medieval times, crafts and tradesmen recognized the value of professional groups. Artists' guilds, a precursor of unions, played a vital role in advancing the image of craftsmen to one of respected professionals. By bringing together influential businessmen who share a common goal, a strong voice is created. A voice that has the power to accomplish what mere individuals cannot.
Today, the same concepts apply. The best way to understand your business and be successful in it is with the guidance and input of those with the advantage of experience. The best way for any industry to protect and advance itself and the interests of its members is by joining together.
Dress Up Your Resume
It's one of the toughest challenges to overcome. The job requires experience, but you can't get experience without a job. Many professional organizations extend invitations to members for work on local projects or events. Volunteering in these situations can create a great resume entry, one that provides real world experience and professional references. Volunteer opportunities also offer invaluable learning opportunities and the chance to see the experts at work. Volunteering can give you the flavor of the work you plan to spend your life doing.
Becoming involved in the organization's operations can also be a great way to expand your skill base. Taking on a leadership role like treasurer or secretary will reflect well when you go looking for the real job. And some of the most impressive and gratifying rewards take the form of professional recognition. Associations often organize industry awards to highlight and acknowledge excellence.
Take it for a Test Drive
From landscapers to music lovers, from business people to artists, there is an organization out there for nearly everyone. By joining more than one, you may be able to compare services and benefits while exploring several career options.
Getting to know future colleagues and learning about the industry culture will provide the insight that can give you an extra edge. It can also help to evaluate where your talents and interests fit into the bigger
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