As financial professionals we all understand how return on investment (ROI) puts money in the bank. Today I want to discuss our personal emotional bank accounts.
There are many definitions for professional associations, but they typically boil down to: "a non-profit organization seeking to further a specific profession, the interests of the individuals of that profession, and the public interest." Professional associations do this by developing programs that enhance: professionalism, networking, career opportunities, training, advocacy, socializing, etc...we all joined for at least one of those reasons.
When I joined CFMA in 2006 I had never even heard of the association. My background to that point had been professional services (engineering) accounting. Very similar and related industry, but as you well know construction comes with more buttons and switches than the cockpit of a 747. Luckily the president of the company knew my strong engineering background and he was also familiar with CFMA. Day one he told me about CFMA, and recommended I join. I joined immediately, but really didn't get involved or even show up to meetings for the first couple years.
That all changed when Al Hintz contacted me and asked if I would like to attend the annual planning meeting. Impressed with the program and professionalism of all the attendees turned my spark into a flame. I have to be honest and say that's a big deal for me. The 14 years I served in the Navy I was reminded time and time again that NAVY was just an acronym for "Never Again Volunteer Yourself". CFMA overcame some powerful military brainwashing (a-hmm, training). Anyway, I continued to get involved through the planning committee and next thing you know Luther Salonen is asking me to be his vice president.
Many meetings and activities have come and gone since those days. I can say quite emphatically that the small effort I have invested in this organization and chapter has been paid back many times over. I am more professional due to the relationships and activities I've been involved with in CFMA. My rolodex is jam packed with contacts starting with "CFMA". I have and continue to get contacted about employment opportunities, and I am glad to see how we share those opportunities with others. I have come a long way in understanding construction accounting through the many training opportunities here. I am aware of how this organization advocates for our profession specifically this industry. Finally, being more of an introvert, I have expanded my social skills as well. You use to be able to tell the difference between me and an engineer because when I talked to you, I would look at your shoes. An engineer will look at his own. Now, I can look you in the eyes when I talk to you. So, you see. It's not just one of those aspects of the organization that have paid dividends. Emotional bank account - Cha-CHING!!!!
Stop babbling and break it down - Mike!
Regardless of your objective, becoming involved in any organization is about developing meaningful relationships from which you will learn, and grow. This means a commitment of personal time, and oftentimes resources in terms of membership’s fees or fundraising. The bottom-line is that consistent and active involvement is the key to a successful organization, which will pay you back in volumes.
The final pitch!
This year is going fast and I will soon be replaced by Steve Kimsey. He will need a replacement down the road. So, here's the point of my entire story. I am paying back Al and Luther for asking me to get involved. The Kansas City chapter is a group of outstanding members, both general and associate. Remember I previously mentioned my focus on being "One Great Sustainable" chapter? I'm asking everyone to get involved. Specifically, if you have any interest in holding an officer position please contact anyone on the executive committee. Our contact info is on the chapter website.
Best regards,
- Mike