January 18, 2023
New Year’s brings with it many things, including the popular, and at times overrated, New Year’s resolutions. While many goal-setters commit to a fad diet or a flashy exercise routine that probably won’t last more than a few weeks, I challenge you to a different type of resolution—participating in an industry-related professional organization.
As a PR professional who is early in their career, I’m involved in the Public Relations Society of America’s (PRSA) Young Professionals Network (YPN). Through a variety of engaging panels, workshops and social events, I’m able to develop professional skills with a group of like-minded PR pros. Not only is joining a professional group or network a great way to invest in yourself and your career, but it’s also an exciting way to continue learning outside of your day-to-day work. If you’re on the fence about joining a professional group in your industry, or you just need an extra push, here are some of the benefits you’ll reap:
- Industry Insight — Often times, professional groups host timely and relevant panels and workshops that will keep you in the know about emerging industry practices. My participation in YPN keeps me updated on the latest happenings in PR, as well as Chicago-specific trends and overall professional development skills. In addition to helping you grow professionally, the fresh ideas and unique lenses presented during these events will equip you to be a stronger asset to your teams and clients.
- Networking Opportunities — At the end of the day, who you know can be just as important as what you know. Being a part of YPN has allowed me to meet PR pros from all across Chicago—ranging from entry level to executive level. Whether you are swapping ideas and advice, or just chatting about the day’s top headlines, any conversation with someone new has benefits. Pro tip: Make sure to connect on LinkedIn afterwards. Customize your invitation by saying it was great to meet them and that you hope to stay in touch.
- Community — Navigating your job, your industry and even your personal career goals can be daunting at times. However, joining a professional organization will introduce you to people who are facing similar challenges, giving you the chance to seek guidance from others and build up your own personal support system. Over rooftop happy hours and downtown dinners, I’ve formed my own little PR posse who I can always count on to swap stories, share career advice and gush over the juiciest reality TV drama, all thanks to YPN.
Overall, getting involved in a professional development group is a great way to stay connected to your industry in a sphere larger than your individual work. Start 2023 off on the right foot and get involved today—you have nothing to lose and everything to gain! And if you are a young PR pro interested in getting involved in PRSA Chicago’s Young Professionals Network, feel free to email support@prsachicago.com or visit https://prsachicago.com/YPN to learn more!