Diving in deeper with your local organization can be a bit like taking the next step in a dating relationship—you need to define that relationship and make the move to pursue what it is you want. Here are two things to consider:
First, decide where you intend for this relationship to go. Would you like a long-term commitment with your local chapter, perhaps spearheading a committee or even starting a new committee for the year? Or, are you planning on a more casual liaison - do you have a great idea for a one-time event? Establishing your expectations up front is the key to avoiding spreading yourself too thin.
Once you have defined the relationship, perhaps the most important thing you can do is take the initiative in pursuing the project/committee of your “desire.” Would you like to head up the social media committee? Do you believe the chapter needs more diversity programs? Be bold and approach your chapter leadership with an outline of proposed initiatives. PRSA leaders will be able to connect you with the appropriate resources to make it happen and will be thrilled to have another volunteer on board to help generate fresh ideas.
Here at C. Pharr, we’ve each found fulfilling yet diverse opportunities within the Dallas PRSA chapter:
Leah Ekmark and Marie Powell - Drinks+Diversity co-chairs
Katie Flodder and Vicky Smithee - NuPros co-chair and NuPros board
Shelby Tuttle - Agency referral
If you have innovative ideas and a desire to make an impact, consider carefully what you’d like to accomplish and then be bold. It’s time to take action in order to create meaningful opportunities for yourself and your local PRSA chapter. As with any relationship – both on a professional and business level – this saying rings true, “You only get out of something what you put into it.”
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