How can you use online platforms to join professional associations?

Joining professional associations can be a great way to boost your career prospects, network with peers, and access valuable resources. However, finding and joining the right associations for your field and goals can be challenging, especially if you are new to the industry or location. Fortunately, online platforms can help you discover and connect with relevant professional associations in various ways. Here are some tips on how to use online platforms to join professional associations.

1 Search for associations by keyword

One of the simplest ways to find professional associations online is to use a search engine and type in keywords related to your industry, role, or interest. For example, if you are a graphic designer, you can search for "graphic design associations" or "graphic design groups". You can also add modifiers such as your location, niche, or level of experience to narrow down your results. You will likely find websites, directories, or articles that list or review different associations that you can explore further.

Add your perspective

2 Browse social media platforms

Another way to find professional associations online is to browse social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. These platforms often have pages, groups, or hashtags that are dedicated to specific professional associations or topics. For example, on LinkedIn, you can search for "professional associations" and filter by industry, location, or function. You can also join groups that are related to your field and see if they have any recommendations or links to associations. On Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, you can follow or search for hashtags such as #professionalassociation, #associationname, or #associationtopic to see what associations are active and engaging online.

Add your perspective

Christina Mackay 📍

Head of CSR and Social Value @ Hitachi Solutions Europe | Passionate about DEI & Wellbeing | Certified ESG Practitioner | Social Justice Advocate | Trustee at Northern Innovation Hub
Report contribution
My most successful tool to engage with new opportunities is networking. It can take time but I would recommend using platforms like LI to follow the people who post interesting content, or people you aspire too, and get involved in the discussion. Doing this consistently will build a light touch relationship which if then followed by direct contact, can result in a deeper more meaningful connection. This has resulted in my being invited to sit of charity boards, new roles, speaking opportunities and more.

Like

3 Use online directories or databases

To find professional associations online, you can utilize online directories or databases that compile and categorize different associations by industry, location, or topic. These tools can help save time and effort by providing a comprehensive and up-to-date list of associations that meet your criteria. Examples of online directories or databases for professional associations include Association Finder, which has a searchable database of over 13,000 US, Canadian, and global associations; ASAE (the American Society of Association Executives), offering a directory of over 7,000 associations and a career center for association professionals; and Idealist, a platform connecting people with social impact opportunities such as nonprofit and professional associations.

Add your perspective

Juan Carlos Ettedgui

Photographer. Marketing & Advertising, Administrative.
Report contribution
In my experience, After moving countries, you may find very difficult to network effectively. Even as a very experienced professional, simply not knowing who to talk to or where to seek advice may significantly slow a job search. Online networking, finding directories and professional associations should be a priority first step to get broader knowledge of local job markets and potential employers. So go online and star searching for this groups and start a conversation.

Like

4 Contact association representatives or members

Once you have found some potential professional associations online, you can contact their representatives or members to learn more about them and how to join. You can usually find their contact information on their websites or social media pages, or you can use online tools such as Hunter or Voila Norbert to find their email addresses. You can also reach out to them via direct messages or comments on their posts. When contacting association representatives or members, you should introduce yourself briefly, explain your interest and goals, and ask relevant questions about the association's benefits, requirements, fees, events, and opportunities.

Add your perspective

5 Apply for membership online

Finally, after contacting and researching different professional associations online, you can apply for membership online if you are eligible and interested. Most professional associations have online application forms or processes that you can follow on their websites or via email. You may need to provide some personal and professional information, such as your name, email, phone number, resume, portfolio, references, or certifications. You may also need to pay a membership fee or a subscription fee, depending on the association's policies. Once you have applied for membership online, you should receive a confirmation and a welcome message from the association, as well as instructions on how to access their online resources, events, and community.

Add your perspective

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Add your perspective

How can you use online platforms to join professional associations?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Search for associations by keyword

2 Browse social media platforms

3 Use online directories or databases

4 Contact association representatives or members

5 Apply for membership online

6 Here’s what else to consider

Job Search Strategies

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Job Search Strategies

More relevant reading

How can you use online platforms to join professional associations?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Search for associations by keyword

2 Browse social media platforms

3 Use online directories or databases

4 Contact association representatives or members

5 Apply for membership online

6 Here’s what else to consider

Job Search Strategies

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

Explore Other Skills