Greetings!
I am often asked by others, why I take the time to participate in professional organizations. My response has always been because it is good for the organization I represent. Based on a study conducted by Arthur C. Brooks, PhD, The Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs Syracuse University, on behalf of the William E. Smith Institute for Association Research participating in Associations provides benefits to both employers and professionals.
People in high-end professions such as IT, consulting and Medicine want the ability to be entrepreneurial, creative and develop individuality. Participating in associations like InSight can enable individuals and employers to fulfill these needs.
The study completed by Brooks revealed that associations provide the following benefits: career networks and advantages, ideas and education, portable fringe benefits, community and opportunities to serve. In addition, those who engage in professional organization earn 14% more per year than the non-member and have significantly more prestigious jobs. Moreover, organizations that support participating in professional organizations can benefit by having more satisfied and effective workers which result in opportunities for innovation and improved retention rates.
The results of the study support my conclusion that participating in InSight, volunteering and attending conferences, is good for the employer but also the individual members. Participation is an opportunity for all of us to explore our creativity, network and be entrepreneurial. The upcoming InSight Annual Conference offers many opportunities to interact with peers, share best practices and learn innovative methods to benefit from McKesson solutions. If you haven’t already enrolled in the conference it’s not too late. Be sure to visit the www insight-net.org to learn more about the education and network programs – they will benefit you in more ways than you can imagine.
Deborah Gash
InSight President
Vice President Chief Information Officer
Saint Luke's Health System