Laughing Wolf

I just received an e-mail from the New York Academy of Sciences, sort of a “come home all is forgiven” letter.  That is, it is forgiven such that they will give me a discount on my fees if I come back to the fold. 

I find myself wondering about the utility of such memberships these days.  Does election/selection/whatever to prestigious or semi-prestigious institutions really count for much these days?  Especially institutions that have you pay for said honor/privilege/etc.?  Do they do anything other than provide what I can only term ego-boo? 

Admittedly, years ago I loved to get their publications, a good magazine and some once-a-year topic-specific items that were invaluable at the time.  With the waning of print, however, such items are rarely timely (especially the yearly items) or useful anymore.  So, what do such organizations provide that is worth the expense?  I have let most of my memberships lapse as I increasingly find little or no use to many honor and professional organizations.  What are your thoughts on such?

LW

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If it’s not an organization with local chapters that give you some benefit, then the only reason to join would be if you liked their publication.  In other words it’s an expensive magazine subscription.  If you find benefit to receiving the magazine then it’s worth it.

If there is no angle where you would be personally involved in working with other members then the benefit, even on a resume is about nil.  Anyone can join an organization to put it on their resume. As this is a well known tactic - it doesn’t buy much unless you are “doing something”. 

Right now I belong to a professional organization.  I am on the Board of Directors because it gives me far greater insight into the running of the group.  Also, I meet more people in the group that way since meetings are every other month.  And I must admit, saying I’m on the BOD of this group would certainly be a plus on a resume.  (I didn’t join for their magazine which is only marginally good at best - LOL)

Just my opinion - that and $2 will buy you coffee at Starbucks.

My 2 cents is they are not worth it unless you plan to be active in a local chapter.

Never once in a interview have I been asked if I was a member of such and such or the job description has never said that membership in such and such is desired.