#1- Black Professional Organizations

 

Black Professionals maximize every opportunity to network with others that work in the same field who are of African descent. Membership strengthens the ties that bond them. Affiliation with a Black Professional Organization demonstrates that one is committed to preserving the the interests of members and advancements made in their field. Organizations include the National Bar Association (NBA), National Medical Association (NMA), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA). Some of these organizations or fields have offshoots geared to more specialized fields like BESLA (Black Entertainment & Sports Law Attorneys).

Membership in such organizations validates the Black Professional’s existence—-Hey, it took a lot of hard work and years of education to get here, right? These organizations are the lifeline for Blacks in their profession. By joining the local chapter of a Black Professional Organization, the Black Professional shows their community that they have indeed “made it” and want to be a shining example to others pursuing the dream. Some professions encourage those still on the path (graduate students or entry level employees) to join the local chapter at the reduced/student rate and be mentored. Remember, these organizations are the vehicles to train new leaders.

Membership provides the fringe benefit of attending national conferences where members of all the local chapters nationwide gather in a destination city under the guise of sharing their talent, gaining expertise or expanding their network for business purposes. Attendance in workshop sessions is not necessarily guaranteed although the participant will most likely be found during the social hour or late night party sponsored by (insert name of LARGE company that budgets for diversity marketing.)

If you want to get on the good side of a Black Professional, follow these steps. #1- Ask them to describe in detail the path they took to get to their current position. #2- Insist that they begin their story from high school to present. #3- Nod and smile at them with starry eyes. #4- Tell them that they are an inspiration. #5- Then ask if they would consider speaking on a panel or to a group of “At-Risk” youth. #6- Ask for their business card (If it has not already been offered by the Black Professional after you completed Step #3.)