How can a professional association advance your career?
For those starting the career journey making contacts and networking can be tough so joining a professional association could be a good idea.
CareerOne.com.au talked to several associations to see what they offered.CPA Australia president Alex Molloy says his organisation provides "career guidance, work experience and career opportunities."Student membership is free but to qualify for a "student passport", applicants would need to be enrolled in an industry relevant undergraduate degree. Graduate membership is discounted.
"To then become an associate member of the CPA you need to have completed an under graduate degree accredited by the CPA and commit to doing the CPA program," Mr Molloy explained.
"To become a full member you need to complete the six segments of the CPA program and three years of mentored experience in the area of accounting and finance."
Peter Wilson is the national president of the Australian Human Resources Institute of Australia. He said AHRI runs orientation programs for its student members as well as provides networking and mentoring opportunities.
"We set the standards for tertiary education in the HR industry so we're very interested in students and graduates," Mr Wilson said. "Of our 13,000 members ten per cent are students and three to four per cent are graduates."
The benefits of being a member of AHRI include a mentorship program, continuous professional development, career opportunities, specialist training workshops and the opportunity to meet people at events including national conferences and seminars.
Julie Mills, CEO, Recruitment and Consulting Services Association says her organisation runs courses for those just starting out.
"For example, Introduction to Recruitment looks at the big picture - such as the importance of sales and people skills - right down to the terminology used and privacy obligations. After completing the five modules, you'll be 'desk-ready' and fully equipped to start work," Ms Mills said.
To find a suitable association, type the name of an industry or profession into a search engine and usually a specialist association will be returned in the results. Also, associations often exhibit at university career fairs as well as sponsor student events. Don't be shy. Go up and ask those manning the stand what membership of their organisation can offer you.
Costs of joining a professional association
CareerOne.com.au
