July 16, 2007

Build managers' communication skills from the bottom up

Lucille Ball said, "If you want something done, ask a busy person to do it. The more things you do, the more you can do."

So, if the idea of extending your already too-long workday doesn't appeal to you, think again. Joining the right professional organizations can help your career by increasing your knowledge base in your chosen field and industry, and by expanding your professional and social network. These six top organizations are worth considering:

Council of Communication Management (CCM) This organization of senior communication leaders seeks to enhance their careers by sharing information with peers. This group, which requires 10 years of experience to join, delivers practical and smart ideas that can help with difficult projects, communication to key stakeholders or senior management presentations. Nonmembers can attend CCM's annual conference or participate in monthly Hot Topics teleconferences featuring presentations and discussions about new communication trends. http://www.ccmconnection.com

International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) A terrific forum for communication professionals in diverse industries to share effective global communication practices, with a focus on internal communication. An extensive online library of how-to articles and case studies will guide you through many professional challenges. Local chapters give you the most "bang for your buck" through social networking at monthly and quarterly meetings. The annual global conference offers interesting workshops and excellent keynote speakers. http://www.iabc.com

Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) This is the world's largest organization for PR professionals. Its nationwide chapters and professional interest groups represent many areas of business, industry and nonprofits. National and local conferences are a great way to network and stay current on the latest trends and research. PRSA also offers extensive resources on career management. http://www.prsa.org

Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) The world's largest association devoted to HR management works to ensure HR is recognized as an essential partner in developing and executing organizational strategy. It provides a forum for different areas of HR (including benefits, compensation, recruitment and employee relations) to network and learn from one another. The comprehensive web site keeps you up to date on important HR industry news and changes in legislation that could impact HR policies. http://www.shrm.org

The Association for Women in Communications This effective networking group recognizes the importance of honing transferable skills that can help you make career moves across a broad spectrum of communication fields—journalism, TV/radio, film, advertising, PR, marketing, graphic and multi-media design and photography. Meetings are a great way to make new friends and professional contacts who can help you find new projects, as well as resources such as writers looking for graphic designers or photographers. http://www.womcom.org

The Conference Board The world's pre-eminent business membership and research organization is best known for its Consumer Confidence Index and Leading Economic Indicators. It provides members—top execs and industry leaders from the most respected national and international corporations—with vital business intelligence and forward-looking best practices. The organization's Executive Action reports give an overview of key findings on new global research and working groups explore hot business topics and current trends. http://www.conference-board.org