For CPAs, joining a professional accounting association is an excellent way to make the most out of a career in public accounting. The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) reports that their membership numbers increased in all but one state between 1999 and 2000, and the trend is upwards.
So why are accountants turning to professional associations such as the AICPA, the National Society of Accountants (NSA) and state CPA societies? The benefits of membership are endless, and they continue to multiply as accounting organizations develop new programs and partnerships to better serve their members.
Networking Opportunities
Many accountants say that the most valuable benefit of being in an accounting association is the opportunity to meet the other members. By joining a network of accountants, members have direct access to their peers as well as leaders in the field, an inner circle of professionals who provide support and motivation in each other's professional endeavors. Younger members often find guidance and mentor-like figures in the group; more experienced members have the opportunity to share their experience and wisdom with the younger professionals. In a time when many accountants are concerned about the future of the profession, associations serve the important purpose of developing tomorrow's CPA.
Professional associations and their programs promote a continual exchange of information and insight among members, providing the invaluable opportunity to learn from others in the field. Members often find new jobs, new employees, even new answers to professional challenges, with help from their fellow members.
More Education
The educational value of networking is an important aspect of professional growth in the industry, but accounting associations also provide another benefit that fosters learning among members: CPE classes. Most organizations offer a full schedule of CPE classes throughout the year, and often at a discounted rate for members. Because CPE classes are a requirement for all CPAs, classes sponsored by the association are a valuable commodity that simplifies the process of completing the necessary credit hours.
Accounting associations are also often an excellent source of information on the latest accounting technologies. With the Internet changing the business world, an endless list of accounting software programs and the emergence of technology consultants in the accounting industry, staying on top of the latest technologies is crucial. Accounting associations are a great source of tech-related information for their members, keeping them up-to-date and giving them access to the latest news, resources and contacts in accounting technology.
Current Events
Technology is only one issue covered by accounting associations for their members; there are many more. Associations provide a direct, comprehensive channel of all types of industry information, keeping their members up-to-date on accounting news, industry trends and professional issues. They often publish magazines and newsletters, as well as sponsor presentations by industry leaders at special events. Most organizations also have a web site, providing information and resources on the industry and the association and making it available 24 hours a day.
In a time when the accounting industry is experiencing dramatic change, CPAs need to know about the news that is changing their profession. Membership in an association provides that inside link to the latest updates and happenings, from Capitol Hill to Silicon Valley.
Discounts and Deals
In addition to the wealth of information membership provides, it may even provide a bit of real wealth. Members of accounting associations are often given substantial discounts from a wide variety of companies who have agreements with the organization to promote products to its members. Companies that commonly offer discount prices to members include insurance companies, travel agencies, airlines, career-related consultants, a variety of publications and even web sites.
Giving Back
So membership in an accounting organization gives CPAs quite a lot of value, but it also provides numerous opportunities for CPAs to give back to the community and the profession. Members often volunteer time and resources with student affiliate groups, charitable causes (many associations have established educational foundations) and other volunteer events sponsored by the association.
On top of all of these advantages, there are the social benefits of membership: special events such as black-tie galas, golf tournaments and awards dinners give members the chance to relax and enjoy time with their peers. Some will say that these social events are their favorite part of membership.
There are others who can't decide which benefit they prefer. With so many, it's hard to pick a favorite. The benefits in an accounting association are truly invaluable, and those discussed here are only the tip of the iceberg. The personal connections and professional achievements of members are priceless. Not only do members get the tangible benefits of membership, they also become part of a group that brings professionals together with similar interests, similar challenges and the similar desire to have a positive effect on each other and the future of the accounting profession.
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