Joining a professional construction body is very important for anyone in the construction industry.
However, most professionals may not be aware of why they should join any of the available professional construction bodies.
What can you gain by joining such a body? Is it worth the money? Will it help your job search? Here are some of the potential benefits that membership can offer.
Professional Recognition
Most of the established institutions has a process in which applicants must go through in order for them to attain legitimate membership.
This means that, once you have demonstrated that you have the requisite experience, qualifications and skills, you may join the institution and add the appropriate letters to your CV and business card. Membership shows that you have reached a certain level of expertise in your profession, and adds to your credibility.
It also shows that you are serious about your career and professional development. But remember just being a card carrying member of an organization doesn’t mean that this will automatically produce results for you – and you need to analyse the different types of professional bodies or institutes and chose carefully – simply collecting post nominal accreditation when taken to extremes can work counter-productively too.
Information and Advice
Many institutions have web sites offering member’s password protected access to industry news, surveys, reports, updates, career information, jobs, and details of events. Some, like the Architects and Quantity Surveyors Registration Board of Kenya (BORAQS) offer a comprehensive on-line research facility, with downloadable documents and publications, and a facility for answering questions you may have.
Networking Opportunities
Institutions may have regional networking and professional development events that you can attend, which can be useful for making new contacts and learning more about what’s happening in the sector. National expos and conferences also offer excellent networking and research opportunities. If you wish to raise your profile you can volunteer to join committees and help organise events.
Magazines
There are some excellent monthly or quarterly magazines produced by institutions, which are normally included in the cost of your annual subscription. As well as industry news and articles, the magazines often have a vacancies section – ideal for finding jobs relating to your particular industry sector.
Career Development
Continuous professional development (CPD) is essential if you want to forge a successful second career after leaving the military. Professional Institutions may offer career development programmes, training courses and assessments. There may also be the opportunity to upgrade your membership to Chartered or Fellow level, via further assessment, which gives added professional credibility.
