Last night I participated in the quarterly meeting of the WVUOV, chapter of the AALNC. An average of a dozen nurses joined together and I was unprepared for the momentum generated! The give and take among us was amazing, and our microenvironment was open and transparent. It takes a special interaction to move participants, including myself, when the platform is Zoom and the best descriptor of what happened, was authentic. If you haven’t joined a chapter, just do it and you may be in for a surprise!
Thinking back on my experience and how it may benefit me tomorrow and the next day, here are some examples:
- Networking opportunities: Attending local chapter meetings can provide opportunities for networking with other professionals in your field. You can exchange ideas and learn about new trends and developments in your industry.
- Professional development: Local chapter meetings often feature presentations, workshops, and guest speakers who can provide valuable insights and knowledge related to your profession. These events can help you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your field.
- Continuing education credits: Many professional organizations require members to earn continuing education credits to maintain their certification or licensure. Local chapter meetings often offer opportunities to earn these credits through attending educational events.
- Leadership opportunities: Joining a local chapter can provide opportunities to take on leadership roles such as serving on the chapter board or leading a committee. These experiences can help develop your leadership skills and enhance your resume.
- Community involvement: Being part of a local chapter can give you a sense of community and camaraderie with other professionals who share your interests and values. It can also provide opportunities to give back to your community through volunteer work or other activities.