Professional Associations and You

Professional associations are very similar to trade associations in that they are usually member-supported organizations that represent those who work within a certain industry. The only difference is that professional associations tend to be more white collar than blue collar, including careers known as professional careers such as lawyers, doctors and other similar fields. It's usually an easy matter to join a professional association. You may have to show some sort of documentation to prove that you are a member in good standing of that profession and there will be membership dues to pay, often annually.

Dues can vary in amount so it would be a good idea to compare the benefits to the cost of any professional association. Obviously a large, nationwide organization with many networking opportunities would be worth a higher fee than a local organization with a limited scope. This doesn't mean that you can only join one professional group, though. Many people find it beneficial to have both the local contacts and the national network to tap into. Getting to know the movers and shakers within your field is always a recommended career strategy. It increases your network and gets your name known in the industry.

A free career evaluation from RDG Careers can help you map out your complete career strategy and set your goals for where you want to go with your career. They are a professional job search firm but they also have much to offer to those who are already employed or practicing their profession. The career advisors there can help you find the top professional associations and figure out the direction you want to go with your career. Just watch their Satisfied Client Testimonials to get an idea of what they can do for you.

Trade associations – How do you join and why should you join?

Trade associations are usually member-supported organizations that represent those within a specific industry. Finding trade associations can be challenging at times, depending on what industry you are in. Some industries are represented by several trade groups which further complicate the issue. Visiting trade shows is one way to find groups and to find out more about what they offer. Most groups these days will have a website so doing a search online for “trade association + your industry” will often turn up some groups for you to check out.

Usually it's a relatively simple matter to join a trade association. You may have to show some sort of proof that you are employed in that particular industry and you will likely have to pay a fee, usually called “membership dues”. These fees are what help support the costs of the association and will generally be charged annually. Benefits of joining a trade association are numerous. Often there will be many networking opportunities as well as continuing education opportunities and even professional discounts.

The career advisors at RDG Careers know the value of trade associations and usually can guide you to finding the ones that would give you the greatest benefit. The firm participates in the largest career events such as the National Job Fair and has an extensive network across the spectrum of industry. With their customized career plans, they can help you map out strategies to help you reach your career goals. Finding and joining the right trade associations is a great strategy that can help increase your personal network and further your career.

Career Counselling

At some point in every career there is a time when you are faced with the question of whether or not you are on the right career path. It is more difficult than just choosing an occupation; you consider what kinds of changes are happening in the workplace and what other things you might be able to do. Many people make the choice to change their entire career field,some people decide to go on to another avenue within the same field. There are many career choices that have qualifying skills that you may already have. Some career fields you may never even have considered as a potential match for your abilities. Regardless of what your final choice is, you can benefit by seeking the advice of someone that can help you.

There are several ways you can go about making your decision. You can research on your own or turn to a professional career placement firm. On your own you are guessing, but with a professional firm you are in touch with professionals that are involved with the career market every day. Most career placement firms handle both employees and employers as clients. This is definitely an advantage because these firms already know what it is that top employers look for. If you are in the Toronto Ontario area you might can contact RDG Careers. This form offers a free career evaluation and a consultation that will let you be in a position to decide if they are the right partner to help you change your career today.

Your Career Choices

At some point in everyone’s life the career slate is brand new and clean and choices have to be made which way to go. This is a wonderful time as the potentials are all there and the outcome is wide open. Sometimes people dream big about the type of career that they would like to have. Other people are more realistic and traditional in their approach. No matter what your style is the time comes at that point when you have to make the decision about what you want to be when you grow up. With an abundance of choices it can feel overwhelming to make a final decision.

There are many different ways to approach this decision making process. Without a doubt the best way is to seek the advice of someone who knows the answers to the questions you have. If you are in the Toronto area you might want to consider contacting RDG Careers You can reach the office at 416-363-3844.

A professional career placement agency has the experience and the understanding of today’s employer market to help guide you on a path that will be successful. A professional career center can give you advice on programs and education that will build your career resume into something that employers demand. It will take a lot of the guess work out of the process and puts you on a course that will get you to the career you were meant for. Instead of dreaming, you can turn that energy into doing the things you need to make it happen.