The workplace has come a long way. As expectations have shifted — allowing for more flexibility and requiring less formality — you might be wondering if joining a professional organization is still relevant or just part of the old-school workplace culture.
While being a part of a professional organization like INCPAS can definitely have some tradition behind it (we have been around more than 100 years!), there are numerous reasons it’s still a relevant, effective way to invest in yourself and your professional development.
Camaraderie
The goal of professional organizations is often simple: connection! By becoming a member, you’re joining something bigger than yourself and connecting with people who share similar skills and passions.
This is especially true for those who might be an “island” in their organization. Are you the only CPA or a one-person finance department? Connecting with peers through a professional organization is critical for building relationships, having people to be sounding boards and give recommendations, and to have a greater overall connection to your specific field.
"Connecting with peers through a professional organization is critical for building relationships, having people to be sounding boards and give recommendations, and to have a greater overall connection to your specific field."
It’s also important to remember that the old adage is true: At the end of the day, it’s not what you know, but who you know. Joining an organization with peers and leaders alike expands your network. You never know when one of those connections will have your next career opportunity.
Mentorship & Guidance
Having trouble figuring out how to get from A to B in your career? Interested in making a change? Want to connect to someone who has been there before?
Professional organizations present you with multiple ways to meet and engage with people on local, national and sometimes even global levels. Be sure to look for and take advantage of all benefits available that can connect you, including in-person and online events, communities (like INCPAS Member Sections), forums and more.
The Pulse of the Profession
Life as a CPA can be fast-paced and require you to keep up with ongoing changes and developments, including:
- Updates to the CPA Exam and licensure requirements
- Changes to tax codes and industry regulations
- Emerging technologies and new in-demand skills
- Overall trends and best practices in the field
"Being a member of a professional organization like INCPAS directly connects you to the latest updates you need to thrive in your career — especially when it comes to what you need to know on a local level."
Being a member of a professional organization like INCPAS directly connects you to the latest updates you need to thrive in your career — especially when it comes to what you need to know on a local level.
Your membership will also support ongoing advocacy efforts on your behalf and critical updates on legislation that can impact you, your community and your clients.
Tailored Learning & Professional Development
Learning never ends, especially if you want to set yourself up for long-term success.
Joining a professional organization gives you access to free and discounted learning opportunities, but it doesn’t stop at one-off CPE courses. You’ll also have access to more high quality and in-depth learning experiences and programs designed to meet your unique professional needs.
At INCPAS, this includes programs like the Young Pros Leadership Academy, a specialty program created to give the next generation of the profession’s leaders tools and skills they need to grow into their future roles. Explore the program here and apply by June 2!
Volunteer & Leadership Opportunities
A surefire way to grow as a professional and leader? Volunteering.
Joining a professional group gives you access to numerous volunteering and leadership opportunities. This can include one-off volunteer opportunities like helping plan single events or more formal ongoing experiences like joining committees and boards.
Taking part in these types of experiences will help you build communication and leadership skills like delegation and planning. You’ll also become better known as a leader in your community and beyond — a true boost to your resume and professional journey.
Resources for Every Stage of Your Career Journey
Whether you’re a college student who just declared your major or a seasoned veteran approaching retirement, every stage of your career comes with unique needs and challenges.
No matter where you are in your career, professional organizations are equipped with resources, events and other opportunities that meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals.
For INCPAS members, this looks like:
Explore Your Membership Possibilities
Are you considering joining INCPAS for the first time?
Visit our Membership hub to learn more about the benefits and our different levels of membership.
Are you ready to join?
Apply online and if you have any questions as you go, you can check in with us on our web chat tool or contact Membership Associate Kami Moehl at (317) 726-5011 or kmoehl@incpas.org,
Is it time to renew your membership?
We’re excited to welcome you back for another year of connection and growth! Please login to get started.
Our Membership team is always here for you! Reach out to Membership Associate Kami Moehl or Membership Manager Jenna Whalen for questions and assistance.