Volunteer? I'm Just Too Busy!

I just received an e-mail from APICS looking for volunteers for national offices and committees. I also get regular correspondence from my local APICS affiliate looking for the same. I get those same messages from ISM and my local ISM affiliate. There seems to be a lack of volunteers for professional associations and the problem seems to be getting worse. 

The cause? Short sighted companies and supply chain pros who are overworked, stressed out, or afraid to ask their management for the necessary time to volunteer. After all, if you have enough time to join a board or committee you are not busy enough, right? Wrong!

I’m lucky. The college I work for strongly encourages not only volunteering but ultimately taking leadership positions in the organizations were we serve. I hold board positions with several not-for-profit community based business organizations. I also have a board position with the ISM Materials Management Group and I’m still deeply involved with the Purchasing Management Association of Boston.

While I like to think that my involvement helps the organizations, it really helps me. I’ve made great career contacts, personal contacts, business contacts, and I’ve generated a lot of business (and students) for my college. It works on all angles. And for the most part I really enjoy myself.

Get involved. Start small but be aware that becoming involved can be contagious. And fun. You have some great business expertise to share. It will offer you a whole new perspective on your job and career.

Now, any volunteers?