By volunteering, not only are you helping out the industry's leading volunteer association, you are adding valuable skills both you and your company can utilize in the future. You open so many doors of opportunity you just can't imagine without actually being a part of it. It will build your personal confidence, provide cross-training opportunities, and give your company a valuable resource--you--with more breadth and depth to solve critical business issues.

There are many ways to get involved in IASA, but the most logical place to start is by volunteering for one of our nine core committees that interests you: Education, Chapter Advisory, Publications, Marketing, Membership, Exhibits, Seminars, Volunteer Development, and Industry Relations committees.

We are talking about only a few hours a month, plus a fall and spring planning meeting, and of course, the IASA Annual Conference and Business Show. Volunteering is a commitment by all parties--you, your company, and IASA. Both you and your company give up a few hours a month. You give up two weekends a year, your company supports travel expenses, and IASA helps you build a strong industry support network, strengthens your expertise in your core areas of responsibility, and helps develop additional career skills.

For me, the IASA network I have built has been invaluable. There hasn't been a need (whether hiring an employee or consulting company or researching a new product or service), for which I haven't been able to pick up the phone and call someone I know through IASA and get guidance, opinions, and recommendations. What a fantastic capability that provides for your company!

So, what are you waiting for? Energize your career now: E-mail Tricia Stillman at [email protected], and tell her you want to volunteer!

Craig S. Lowenthal is the incoming IASA president for the association's 2010-2011 fiscal year. He also is the social media strategist for Glatfelter Insurance. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].