Exciting Announcement & Ways to Advance Your Career
Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a safe and joyful holiday season.
2018 was a year of learning for me. Stepping into the President role was exciting yet nerve racking. I don’t think one can be fully prepared for what is to come. However, I am blessed to be working with a great executive team and a strong board. I learnt so much from them, and am excited about what 2019 will bring.
Welcome to the 2019/20 Vice President-Elect
Last November, the Nomination Committee received two nominations from our eligible membership, both with great qualifications and passion for our profession. One nominee stood out for their long-term commitment to IABC and their desire to further our profession locally and internationally.
Having worked with this individual, I am excited to announce that Tim Shaw has been selected for election as the 2019-2020 Vice President of IABC/Calgary. Tim is a long-time IABC member and has been involved with both Calgary and Toronto chapters. He currently sits on our board as the Professional Development Co-Director. The proposed board slate will be ready for members to vote on later in the spring.
4 Ways to Advance Your Career
If your New Year’s resolution is to build your network and advance your career, we are here to help.
- Get certified
Professional certifications give you the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise and provide evidence of your outstanding abilities. Our chapter has been leading the way in getting communicators certified through the Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC). As of today, Calgary has more than 25 communicators certified. Our next exam sitting will be on Saturday, April 6, 2019. For more information, please contact Calgary-standards@iabc.com
- Gain knowledge
Attending professional development events not only help develop you as a communicator, but it also provides you with a great opportunity to network with other communicators at all stages of their careers.
Our Professional Development team is working hard to put together the lineup for 2019. Our signature event, Transform, will also be returning so stay tuned for more details. In the meantime, our monthly meetup is resuming on Jan. 24, 2019, and it is free for members!
We have partnered with The Gathering and The Alberta Communications Forum so that our members can receive a discount on their conference rate. For information on all the events, check here.
Remember to check out the free monthly webinars that are offered by IABC to members. I am also excited about this year’s World Conference, which will be held June 9 – 12 in Vancouver. With the theme ‘Think Forward’, I know we will be able to learn the latest trends, ideas and solutions. More information here.
- Get involved
I had the opportunity to chat with many of you over the past few months. Often times, I hear people say “I should get more involved.” Well, it is a new year and a great time for you to get involved. We are looking for a number of volunteers to help us. Volunteering allows you to build new skill sets and meet new friends, including getting to know the board members. Did I mention we work hard, but we also play hard? Talk to us. Email Calgary-volunteer@iabc.com
- Get social – digitally
In addition to being on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, did you know we are also on LinkedIn? Join us and get connected to other communicators in Calgary. Don’t forget The Hub, which connects you to members from all over the world.
Lastly, don’t miss Jenica Foster’s blog post on understanding what is holding you back so that you can properly set your career resolutions. A great article to read to start off the year.
So, no matter what your resolutions are, remember IABC is here for you. Let’s make 2019 another vibrant year for you and our profession in Calgary!
Until next time.
Sharon Lee
