Is Professional Networking the New Social Media

Is Professional Networking the New Social Media Ah, technology. Its engrained in our DNA, its been talked about way too many times, and we get it. Wed all rather be on our smartphones right now anyway. The rise of social media has dominated our lives, and we definitely use it to our benefit â€" to connect, to hunt for jobs, to learn and to find guidance. This increasing media usage has led to the belief that professional organizations may be starting to look outdated, even old-school. In Buzz Marketing Groups survey “Professional Organizations Study 2015,” respondents left these older organizations for the following reasons: 37 percent saw no value in the organization 45 percent said it was too expensive to participate 35 percent said the group wasnt made up of peers theyd like to associate with 31 percent felt that groups did not have enough technology 27 percent said there was a lack of curation Sixty-seven percent of millennials said theyd join an organization founded by peers of a similar age â€" organizations like YEC and FounderSociety. These groups address the needs and concerns of millennials, and as a result, they have accelerated in growth and sparked a new interest in professional organizations. Were caught up in this web of new and social media. According to Nielsen, we think technology use is the most defining feature of our generation. Theres no such thing as too much technology for us anymore. As reflected in the stats above, were often unsure of the benefits of joining these old organizations. We feel like they wont be tailored to our needs and concerns. If they are, it can be one of the best decisions you make for your future. Want to know why? Heres five reasons: Social Gains Imagine yourself in a room with people who all have the same interests as you. Wouldnt it be great to talk and debate about what you love with a bunch of like-minded individuals? Youd walk away with some new insights and possibly even new friends. Professional organizations have always been about networking, whether theyre outdated or not. Any form of communication within a professional organization â€" be it through joining LinkedIn, attending a conference or solving problems with your peers â€" is key. They say money makes the world go round, which is up for dispute â€" but if theres one thing we cant live without, its social capital. Establishing meaningful and trusting relationships with leaders and colleagues can help you achieve your goals. Broadening Your Knowledge When you join a professional organization, you further your career by one main action, and thats learning. You can get access to educational resources provided directly by the organization, including newsletters, research and seminars. Within these resources, leaders in the industry often share their thoughts on the latest trends, practices and innovations. Its all there, right under your fingertips. The more you learn about your organization and its place in the world, the more youll stay ahead of your competition. Job Opportunities Successful networking within a professional organization can land you in the job youve always dreamed about. Your mentors, colleagues or bosses can connect you to people who are on the hunt for your unique skillset. Most professional organizations provide job listings to their members, so take advantage of this. Exclusive Perks As millennials, we like exclusivity â€" we want to feel special. Theres no shortage of that feeling in a professional organization, especially due to the perks of joining one. Many organizations offer things only available to members, such as access to resources, invite-only events, deals and discounts, and health care and travel benefits. Theyll do just about anything to make you feel like a part of the community. Giving Back to the Community Its one thing to feel a sense of belonging in a community, but its another to use your skills and expertise to give back to that community. Organizations often coordinate with local charities and service groups. Some even allow members like you to speak or teach in nonprofit organizations. We millennials love charity, and the sense of giving ones wealth, be it financial or personal, to a place where its needed more. As it turns out, maybe were not so shy when it comes to joining professional organizations. What matters more, however, is whether theyre tailored to what we know and are able to work with. Technology has held a special place for all of our lives. We hold our peers close, whether near or far, and we use these two things to enhance our careers. Millennial should keep these things in mind when considering career expectations. Once were certain these can be met, we will certainly become active and engaged members of professional networking groups.