What do you know about the national issues related to your industry and your organization? If you knew more, would you be able to perform better? Would your internal reputation be stronger?
The 60 mentors in 7 Keys to a More Satisfying Future at Work all were active in their local, state and national trade and professional associations. These are membership organizations that represent industries and areas of practice. Since many of the first mentors interviewed were working in the Energy Industry, they were active in the American Gas Association and/or the Edison Electric Institute. Both are closely associated with Congress and the regulatory agencies that have great influence. The websites and public news releases provide the public and interested industry followers with key information…issues and future plans.
As an employee it’s easy to go to these national sites (your industry will have similar organizations) and add to your awareness which can enhance your job performance.
And, why not get involved in industry organizations? Local, regional and national meetings plus opportunities to serve on committees to help guide them can be a very powerful opportunity. By meeting others, perhaps working in the same area as you are, but in other organizations, you are not competitive and can often help each other be more successful in your own company.
Rick participated in his state, then regional then national trade association in manufacturing and enhanced his skills and reputation. When a regional organization in his field needed a new Executive Director, his background helped him rise above more than 50 candidates and he ran the organization until his retirement.
There is more detail on how the 7 keys worked for one or more of the mentors in the book 7 Keys to a More Satisfying Future at Work. Use the tools at your7keys.com, the downloads, the apps, and blog posts to decide what your next steps are in your career satisfaction career plan.