Professional communication organizations

We looked at professional organizations that would benefit graduates of communications study. These are ones I checked out:

Toastmasters International
Logo retrieved from here.

1. Toastmasters International. With a 292,000 membership, this organization is a world leader in communication and leadership development, according to its web site. Toastmaster clubs meet either weekly or monthly and fine tune their leadership and speaking skills in a no-pressure atmosphere. There is no instructor at the meetings. Members analyze each other’s presentation. According to the web site,
   participants give impromptu talks on assigned topics, conduct meetings and develop timekeeping, parliamentary procedure, and grammar skills.  Semi annual dues average $36. (Toastmasters International, 2014).
   Benefit: Speaking skills is the No. 1 benefit from being a Toastmaster member. In addition, you learn the skills such as timekeeping and parliamentary procedure.
   More information: Click here
   
2. Rotary International. With more than 1.2 million members, Rotary International comprises of community leaders who come together to solve some of the communities toughest challenges. According to its web site, the Rotary Clubs are supported by Rotary International and the Rotary Foundation, which turns donations into grants that fund the work of the clubs. Rotary is led by its members. Formed in 1905, Rotary has helped organizations such as Easter Seals and United Nations get started. (Rotary International, 2014). 
   Benefit: Leadership skills would be a great benefit. In addition, giving back to the community is important, as a professional in communications or other professions is an important value.
   More information: Click here
   
3. U.S. Chamber of Commerce. I looked up the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, but in reality, your local chamber is the best source for membership. The U.S. Chamber represents more than 3 million businesses nationwide. According to its web site, the U.S. Chamber advocates for pro-business policies that create jobs help the economy grow. The U.S. Chamber has been in existence over 100 years. (US Chamber, 2014). Benefit: The Chamber is a great way to network with other businesses. It also promotes leadership and community.
   More information: Click here
   
4. Soroptimist Club. The club name translates to “best for women” and is an organization for professional and businesswomen.  The organization has several programs that benefit women and girls. According to the web site, the organization’s projects aid women economically and empower them. The programs include “Live Your Dream: Education and Training Awards for Women;” “Soroptimist Club Grants for Women and Girls;” “Soroptimist Disaster Grants;” “Soroptimists STOP Trafficking;” and “Soroptimist Workplace Campaign to End Domestic Violence.” (Soroptimist, 2014).
   Benefit: As a woman, this is a great organization to help other women and girls as part of my professional business. It will teach me leadership skills, fund-raising skills, and skills in running a nonprofit organization.
   More information: Click here
   
5. PRSA. This public relations organization is 21,000 strong. Districts and chapters make up the local community PRSA organization. According to its web site, PRSA connects members to the 21,000 public relations professionals, offers leadership opportunities and networking. PRSA also offers 60 free webinars annually and a Code of Ethics your company can adopt. Membership includes a daily news briefing called “Issues and Trends” that is emailed each morning; a database of case studies; an RFP exchange that you can post and search for new business; and member inclusive discounts for agencies such as UPS, Budget, insurance and NewsCactus. (PRSA, 2014).
   Benefit: Anyone working in public relations would benefit from this organization. There is stealth of networking opportunities through this organization as well as a way to have your resume out there for companies to peruse.
   More information: Click here
6. National Communication Association. This is the only organization out of the ones I selected I have not heard of. According to its web site, the association serves scholars, practitioners, and teachers by enabling and supporting professional interests in teaching and research. The NCA is a member of “American Council of Learned Societies,” Consortium of Social Science Associations,” “Council of Communication Associations,” and National Humanities Alliance.” Common areas of study offered by NCA include applied communication, communication education, communication theory, electronic media, health communication, international and intercultural communication, interpersonal communication, language and social interaction, legal communication, mass communication and media literacy, and more. Membership is $165 per year. (National Communication Association, 2014).
   Benefit: Free online access to 11 journals, membership in NCA interest groups, subscription to “Spectra” magazine, e-newsletters, opportunities for leadership roles. This would be a great organization to ask your company to pay for or share cost. I would only recommend to those who are very involved in the communications field.
   More information: Click here