If you are a professional or occupy a management position, it is important to include in your resume a section called “Professional Affiliations”.

Why is it important? Because if you are a member of a professional association, it shows that you care about your professional development. At least, you care enough to pay an annual membership fee to have access to newsletters and conferences organized by the association.

Being a member of a professional association offers many advantages beyond the fact that you can list the name of the association on your resume. It allows you to stay current on what is happening in your industry or profession, it is a great opportunity to network and it offers you access to job postings available only to members.  If you decide to become actively involved in the association, this is a good way to gain exposure and name recognition.

What should you include?  Essentially, you should list the name of the association and your status (whether you are a member, are part of a committee or occupy a specific role within the organization).  If you are member of multiple associations, list them using bullet points.  If you are a professional and being a member is a requirement for practising your profession, write the name of the society followed by your year of admission.

What if you are not a member of any association? Simple, become a member.