Public Relations Society of America

I’m sure many of the public relations professionals out there know about and are a part of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). If you’re in the PR business or are aspiring to be, I highly suggest that you visit the trade association’s website to see all of the great things they have to offer.

For starters, I recommend that you become a member of the trade association because there are a number of different benefits. First off, by becoming a member of PRSA, your professional value and credibility are greatly improved. PRSA has created a Code of Ethics that all PR professionals should live up to and guarantees a standard of success for PR practitioners across the board.  In addition, PRSA offers professional accreditation through their Accredited in Public Relations (APR) credential.

Second, PRSA is constantly posting articles and screening webinars that offer professionals a chance to stay current on upcoming strategies and trends. According to the website, members will now have access to more than 50 webinars in 2012, all for free. PRSA makes it easy to do research as well with their members-only database of case studies, articles and research.

Last, PRSA offers incredible networking opportunities. There are more than 50 different chapters across the country that allow you to connect with local professionals in your area. In addition, you can join specific Professional Interest Sections. Sections cover nonprofit, employee communications, travel & tourism, new professionals and more. Membership with PRSA also includes access to the PRSA Jobcenter that offers career advice and job openings.

If you are currently in college you should check out if your school has a student chapter, or Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). If they don’t, consider starting one yourself. Once you graduate you’ll be able to join PRSA at a discounted rate.