Join national project management organizations to network with other PM professionals

Organizations for project management range from international groups to state wide or local organizations, all with one goal in mind: to advance the project management industry.

I recommend: NewGrange Center for Project Management is a nonprofit professional organization based entirely online. You're encouraged to share ideas about what really works in project management, why it works and how to replicate it consistently. To register for membership, you must register for a list server so you can participate in discussions. Association for Project Management (APM) has more than 16,000 members around the world. The group's goal is to develop and promote project management in all industries. Search for event information online.

Pay annual dues to belong to project management organizations

National project management organizations' dues usually range depending on the membership level. Once you find an association you want to join, decide what type of commitment you're willing to give.

I recommend: International Cost Engineering Council (ICEC) is a project management association that promotes cooperation between national and multi-national cost engineering, project management and quantity surveying organizations. Download an application for ICEC membership. Center for International Project & Program Management (CIPPM) is an international association for research, communication and learning. CIPPM serves, supports and advances project management. Membership dues run about $150 per year. Member benefits include a resume link through the CIPPM website, along with CIPPM logo to put on your documents.

Benefit by using educational tools and resources from professional project manager organizations

When you join international project management organizations, you get access to many tools such as magazines, business reports, a career center, courses and seminars. They allow you to advance your skills, increase your knowledge, optimize your performance and position your career.

I recommend: American Management Association (AMA) is a project management professional association that promotes professional development and advances your skills to drive business success. AMA’s approach is to "learn through doing." The group offers seminars, conferences and webcasts and podcasts to increase networking and learning opportunities. Project Management Forum provides you with worldwide project management information. Members get Project Management World Today, an online magazine with tons of valuable educational resources. You can also access the forums for free, which focus on networking, job postings, viewpoint discussions and expert answers. Project Management Institute (PMI) is the world’s leading project management organization. It has more than 260,000 members. The website provides you with knowledge sharing and networking opportunities, job search capabilities, leadership opportunities, a certification program and publications.