Maximizing Your Membership with the National Career Development Association
As a member of the National Career Development Association (NCDA), it is important to make the most of the resources, networking, and opportunities your membership provides. Here are five ways to maximize your NCDA membership:
1. Attend NCDA Conferences and Events
NCDA hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including webinars, regional conferences, and a national conference. Attending these events is a great way to network with other career development professionals, learn about new research and trends in the field, and gain new skills and knowledge.
For example, research has shown that attending the NCDA Annual Conference can significantly increase a professional’s sense of competence and effectiveness in their work. Additionally, NCDA conference attendees report high levels of satisfaction with the content and organization of the events.
2. Access NCDA Resources
As an NCDA member, you have access to a wealth of resources to support your professional development and career counseling work. This includes online training modules, research articles, webinars, and more.
One particularly valuable resource is the NCDA Career Resource Store, which offers a wide range of books, tools, and assessments to support your work with clients. NCDA members receive discounts on many of these resources.
3. Participate in NCDA Communities of Practice
NCDA offers a variety of Communities of Practice (CoPs) that allow members to connect with others who share their interests and expertise. These CoPs provide opportunities to share resources, discuss best practices, and collaborate on projects and initiatives.
Some examples of NCDA CoPs include the Veterans and Military Services CoP, the Career Counseling for Immigrants and Refugees CoP, and the Social Justice CoP. Participating in these groups can help you stay up to date on issues and trends in your area of interest, as well as build relationships with other professionals.
4. Volunteer with NCDA
Volunteering with NCDA is a great way to give back to the profession and gain valuable experience. NCDA offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, from serving on committees to helping at events.
Volunteering can also help you expand your professional network and build your skills and knowledge. Plus, it looks great on your resume!
5. Leverage NCDA’s Advocacy Efforts
NCDA is committed to advocating for policies and practices that promote the career development of all individuals. As a member, you can contribute to these efforts by staying informed about relevant legislation and policy initiatives, as well as by communicating with your elected officials about the importance of career development.
NCDA provides resources to help you become an effective advocate, including policy briefs, talking points, and training opportunities.
Conclusion
Maximizing your NCDA membership requires actively engaging with the resources, events, and opportunities provided by the organization. By attending conferences, accessing resources, participating in communities of practice, volunteering, and leveraging advocacy efforts, you can enhance your professional development and make a positive impact on the field of career development.
