Membership in professional organizations is a way for professionals with similar objectives to join together to have the voice of many, versus the voice of one. Joining an organization can lead to personal growth, enhanced professional prospective and knowledge development, and support for creating change.

AT A GLANCE

• Membership in professional organizations affords numerous benefits, including certification opportunities, networking, professional publications, continuing education, and standards for practice.
• Exploring professional organizations outside a practice role and specialty may provide additional benefits, such as viewing the complexity of oncology care from an interprofessional perspective.
• Nurse membership in these organizations also can increase nursing participation and leadership on diverse initiatives that influence healthcare policy and practice.