Before I moved to Cayman a few months ago, I had been working as a HR professional in the UK and was up to date on all the hot topics. Relocation to a slightly more laid back lifestyle and a new job means that I don’t need to refer to the CIPD website or read People Management Magazine quite as often as before… However, I am well aware that it is important not to let professional skills and knowledge slip away, especially after working so hard to obtain them!



I am now involved in the administration for two professional societies here in Cayman, the Cayman Islands Society of Professional Accountants (CISPA) and the Cayman Islands Society for Human Resource Professionals (CISHRP), and believe that there are several benefits to being a member of such organisations:

1. Professional recognition

Many employers will look to recruit candidates with a professional qualification. Membership of a professional institute demonstrates that you qualify and shows your commitment to your chosen profession – particularly important in a competitive labour market.

2. Improve your earning potential

Independent research reveals that individuals with professional qualifications and membership stand to gain £152,000 (CI$203,000) in additional earnings over the course of their career:

http://www.cim.co.uk/resources/managingmarketers/ccpmo.aspx

3. Keeping you up to date

Subscribe to free email alerts, magazines and newsletters to help you keep up to date with current topics and any new developments in regulation and legislation.

4. Continuing professional development

Many professional organisations offer learning and development opportunities that have been designed to help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to advance your career. As a member of a professional organisation, you’ll be offered opportunities to keep your professional knowledge up to date and to improve your capabilities.

5. Networking opportunities

Events organised by professional organisations provide an excellent opportunity to network with fellow professionals, enabling you to make contacts with whom you can consult and draw referrals, ideas, and information for your job search and career progress. Networking also advances your continuous learning, allowing you to share ideas and learn about best and next practice.

6. Receive discounts!

Many professional organisations partner with other relevant or local organisations to offer members discounted rates on a range products and services… also benefitting your purse strings!