[sabrinafaire]

I've been considering joining recently. I'm just wondering if anyone else is a member and if they think it's worth the cost. By member I mean of IAAP, but not necessarily certified.

[Rachael]

I have been a member of IAAP for three years and really love it! We have monthly meetings that include an educational session and time for networking. As with any group, participation is the key. I am really looking forward to International Convention coming up at the end of this month!

[NicoleMiller]

Hi Rachael! Look for OfficeArrow at the conference - we'll be there and would love to meet you!

[Linda Clark]

I've been a member of IAAP since early 2007. I also achieved my CPS and CAP certifications that year. Check to see if your employer supports this group for admins as they may pay for your membership and the costs of getting certified (mine does). The monthly meetings are only as good as the participation of the group. If you are certified, these meetings also count towards your re-certification every five years. So, it really depends what you are looking for. Most groups encourage you to come as a guest so you can check them out.

[Beth_T]

Hi everyone!

I have been a member of IAAP for the past thirteen years and have to tell you the benefits I have reaped as a member are numerous. I originally joined, planning to sit on the sidelines and listen. I quickly learned that I would receive the greatest benefit from this association from becoming active in my Chapter. I just never imagined how active!

If asked what the greatest benefits are, I would say it's belonging to a Chapter - networking - professional development. I was painfully shy and would never have imagined myself introducing and thanking guest speakers, much less presenting at a Chapter meeting or leading a Chapter and Division (the association is comprised of International - District - Division - Chapter - Member). Membership allows you to develop your talents and learn new skills in a safe environment - among your peers where all anyone wants is to see you succeed!! The education is amazing - from Division Conferences to the International Convention & Education Forum.

I haven't even gotten to the additional benefits of studying for and taking your certification examinations (different than becoming Microsoft Certified) and proudly receiving your Certified Administrative Professional designation. People have told me that attaining that certification has been a highlight in their career that frequently changes how they view their profession and their role in that profession. I have held off for many years; however I have to tell you that once I am finished my leadership year and can dedicate some study time - I'm going for it!!

So, do I think membership in IAAP is worth the cost? ABSOLUTELY! In comparison to other professional associations, IAAP membership is a great value!

I do remind you though - you only get out of something, what you put into it! Contact a Chapter in your area - what better time than September to launch a new and exciting path in your career!

My apologies for the length of this message - I'm just passionate about my association!

[LisaOlsen]

Another plug for IAAP! I have also been a member for years, and now as a speaker I have had the opportunity to facilate workshops at the International Conventions.

The chapter meetings can be very beneficial and I would encourage participation. And, the magazine publication, Office Pro is one the best for APs.

I will miss seeing all my friends at this year's convention but will be back next year doing a workshop - so come and introduce yourselves!

[sabrinafaire]

Originally Posted by Linda Clark

Check to see if your employer supports this group for admins as they may pay for your membership and the costs of getting certified (mine does).

My previous employer did not, even though they encouraged joining. (And they'd pay for everyone else's professional associations) Right now I'm unemployed. One of the reasons I was considering joining was to network and help find a job, but it seems that the local groups don't meet in the summer, so that part may not help me.

[Beth_T]

sabrinafaire - there are currently three professional chapters in Omaha and one corporate chapter (Mutual of Omaha). If you haven't contacted them all I would definitely suggest that as a first step. I don't know if you've accessed the Nebraska Division website, so am posting the link here http://iaap-iowanebraska.org/Default...u=TtoUEJtv/vQ=. The Chapters tend to use the summer to rejuvenate and plan the following year; however, even if you can't attend a Chapter meeting, it might be nice to get together for coffee with the person in charge of membership for each Chapter and see how they "feel". Good luck with your search for a new position.

[Caffeina]

Thanks, Beth! Just ditto everything you said, and I don't have to add a thing! I joined IAAP 21 years ago and, hands down, it was the best career decision I ever made. Sometimes my employer paid, sometimes I paid, but one way or another, I would get to my IAAP events. Love it to death, and New Orleans will be my 17th or 18th convention. Look forward to seeing everyone there!

[kfoley311]

I have been a member since 2001. It is the best networking investment I have ever made and I've been in the profession for almost 20years.

I just earned my CPS and CAP ratings in the last two years. Cannot wait until New Orleans! Glad to see OfficeArrow will be there!