16 Part One Welcome to Hospitality
about career opportunities. Networking can also
be fun.
Public Relations
Public relations involves providing informa-
tion about the industry to the general public. There
are two purposes for public relations. One is to in-
form the public about the profession to attract new
professionals. Another is to build a positive image
of the profession and industry. For example, many
professional organizations develop environmental
guidelines for the business they serve. However,
they also release the guidelines to the general pub-
lic to emphasize the industry commitment to re-
sponsible use of environmental resources.
Government Relations
Government relations involves informing local,
state, or national governments about the issues
that are important to the profession. Sometimes
a profession wants to make sure its point of view
is considered when public policy is made. Many
associations have offi ces that monitor legislation
affecting the industry. Associations also have staff
members who communicate with lawmakers
about issues affecting the industry and profession.
Value of Involvement
There are many advantages to being involved
in professional organizations. Many professional
organizations offer scholarships to students plan-
ning to enter the profession. Also, employers know
that job candidates involved in their professional
organizations are usually more up-to-date in their
knowledge. An employer might choose a person
who is active in a professional organization over a
person who is not.
Involvement in a professional organization
helps you stay informed and, therefore, do a better
job. Attending meetings and conventions can be fun
and keep you excited about your career. Many pro-
fessional organizations provide help to job seekers by
posting job openings in their messages to members.
Professional organizations also give you an
opportunity to develop your abilities and lead-
ership skills. There are many volunteer positions
that need to be fi lled in a professional organization.
The president and vice president lead the organi-
zation, which helps them develop their leadership
skills. The treasurer handles the fi nances of the
organization and gets experience in fi nances. The
program chair organizes and plans programs for
monthly meetings. Through planning such pro-
grams, the program chair gets to meet important
people in the fi eld.
Yuri Arcurs/Shutterstock.com Yuri Arcurs/Shutterstock.com
1-14
Networking can help professionals share
information and ideas.