Getting the Most Benefit from Your MPI Membership

Great – you've joined the MPI Toronto Chapter! Now, here are my suggestions on how to make your membership pay off for you.

First, make sure you stay informed about MPI events. Read the regular emails that the Chapter sends out and the “In The Know” electronic newsletter that is distributed every other month. These resources will tell you about educational offerings, social events, and industry news that can help your career. Plus, MPI members usually qualify for a lower registration fee for most events!

Second, get to know other members and let them know you. Attend some of the virtual and in-person activities. Join a committee – there are numerous opportunities, and some require only a short-term commitment. I have participated in a committee every year since I joined MPI, and I believe thatyou develop a much stronger relationship with fellow committee members than with those you only see occasionally. Personally, one of my job opportunities came to me through a fellow committee member so I truly believe your volunteer involvement pays off. Another benefit of volunteering is that committee members often qualify for an additional discount on event fees.

Third, use the educational resources that are available to Chapter members. In addition to the educational events put on by the Chapter, there are programs put on by MPI Global (for example, 30-Minute Mondays, theEvent and WEC – World Education Congress). Members may also access most of the online Chapter seminars for the low price of $35 if they missed the original course. See the Professional Development Library in the Education section of the MPI Toronto Chapter website.

Finally, make sure you introduce yourself and your company to other members. The trust that develops may bring opportunities that you can’t even imagine. Don’t be shy - some of those people you get to know through MPI may become your best friends.

Les Selby, CMP, CMM
MPI Toronto Chapter Past President
(2000-2001)