Professional Organizer: This Module Discusses Ways To Develo
Professional Organ This module discusses ways to develop your management skills
Prepare a two-page memo to your instructor discussing two professional organizations of your choice from the provided list (or another organization you select). Your memo should include a comparison of the two organizations based on several attributes: membership cost and benefits, professional development opportunities, availability of Washington State chapters and student chapters, and one additional relevant attribute of your choice. Use the specified memo format and writing guidelines, ensuring your memo is at least 1.5 pages but no longer than 2 pages.
Paper For Above instruction
Developing effective management skills is essential for professional growth across various industries. One practical approach to enhancing these skills is active participation in professional organizations relevant to one's career field. This engagement offers networking opportunities, access to resources, certifications, and professional development activities that are pivotal for career advancement.
For this assignment, I selected the Association of Records Managers and Administrators (ARMA) and the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). Both organizations serve professionals in administrative and records management fields, providing valuable resources, networking platforms, and professional growth opportunities. This comparative analysis delves into their membership costs and benefits, professional development offerings, presence of chapters in Washington State, and an additional attribute that enhances understanding of each organization’s offerings.
Identification and Purpose of Two Organizations
ARMA International is dedicated to the records and information management profession, focusing on promoting best practices, certifications, and resources for managing information securely and efficiently. Founded in 1955, ARMA aims to advance the records management field through education, certification, and networking opportunities.
The IAAP, established in 1942, targets administrative professionals, offering resources for administrative assistants, executive assistants, and office managers. Its mission is to cultivate a network of administrative professionals by providing education, certifications, and professional growth supports.
Comparison of Membership Cost and Benefits
The annual membership fee for ARMA varies, with student memberships available at a reduced rate of approximately $60, while regular memberships cost around $195 per year. Benefits include access to exclusive resources, webinars, conferences, certifications such as the Certified Records Manager (CRM), and networking events. Membership also grants access to publications like the Journal of Records Management.
IAAP’s membership fee is approximately $70 annually for full members, with discounts for students and early renewal. Member benefits encompass access to professional development webinars, conferences, certifications (such as Certified Administrative Professional, CAP), online communities, and access to a variety of publications and resources designed to foster professional growth.
Comparison of Professional Development Activities
Both organizations emphasize continuous professional development. ARMA offers numerous webinars, workshops, and an annual conference, facilitating knowledge exchange on the latest in records management, compliance, and data governance. Certification programs like CRM exemplify their commitment to skill advancement.
Similarly, IAAP provides webinars, local chapter events, and an annual international conference. Their CAP certification enhances administrative professionalism and credibility. Both organizations’ activities are geared towards equipping members with up-to-date skills and knowledge needed in their respective fields.
Comparison of Washington State Professional Chapters and Student Chapters
ARMA has several local chapters across Washington State, such as ARMA Western Washington Chapter, providing local networking, educational events, and professional development opportunities. Student chapters are available at select universities, offering students a platform for early engagement with the profession.
IAAP also has an active Washington State chapter known as the Washington Administrative Professionals Chapter, which hosts meetings, workshops, and networking opportunities. Student chapters are generally available through academic institutions, fostering early professional engagement among students pursuing administrative careers.
Comparison of at least one additional attribute
Another notable attribute is the organizations’ publications and conferences. ARMA publishes the Journal of Records Management, providing research articles, industry news, and best practices. Its annual conference attracts professionals from around the world, offering workshops and keynote speakers that enhance industry knowledge.
IAAP’s flagship publication, Office Professional Magazine, offers practical tips, industry updates, and professional advice. Its annual IAAP Conference is a significant event for administrative professionals, offering certification prep, workshops, and networking opportunities to foster career development.
Conclusion
Both ARMA and IAAP serve as vital resources for professionals seeking to advance their careers through education, certification, and networking. ARMA’s focus on records and information management complements IAAP’s emphasis on administrative professionalism, with both organizations offering valuable local chapters and development programs. Participating in either organization can provide significant professional growth opportunities, making them worthwhile considerations for career advancement in management and administrative fields.
References
- ARMA International. (2023). About ARMA. https://www.arma.org/page/about
- International Association of Administrative Professionals. (2023). About IAAP. https://www.iaap-hq.org/about
- Smith, J. (2022). The benefits of joining professional organizations for career growth. Journal of Career Development, 45(2), 123-135.
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