By James R. Lint
Faculty member at American Military University
Professionals should join associations to build professional development and have an outlet to ask questions you would not want to ask in the office or of your boss. Associations allow you to meet people at various levels of the profession and offer development opportunities that prepare you for greater responsibilities in your career.
Most associations are non-profit organizations, which are often run by few, or no, paid employees. Volunteers and members may gain leadership experience and improve networking opportunities while working with the association’s leadership.