[Anonymous]

I’m not sure if this is the right fit for this question, but I’m wondering – beyond my local state association of CPAs, how do I figure out what other associations are worth joining? I’ve been looking at the agenda for the Accounting and Financial Women’s Alliance annual conference (formerly American Society of Women Accountants, I think) but I’ve never really heard of the organization and I’m not sure if it’s worth trying to sell my boss on $1500 in registration and travel costs for a conference that might be a dud.

I’m almost done with my MSA and almost done with the CPA exam, and I’m currently working as the accountant for a nonprofit. I don’t have a lot of local contacts and I’m really interested in networking and finding a mentor. Any recos for organizations, or just general networking tips?

Thanks!

Jen

[StephAV]

I would think you should be able to check out some meetings before formally joining? I've heard good things about ASWA…

Your state accounting society is a good one also, good resources for Cont Ed from what I've heard?

FAR - 7/13 - 72, 11/13- 74, 2/14- 82!!! Best score ever (for me)!!!
BEC - 1/14 - 75!!! Perfect score! First Pass! YAY!!!
AUD - 8/14 - 80!!!
REG - 5/14 - 72, 10/14 - 66, 1/15 - 78 - DONE FOREVER!!!
I did 5 of the UNA and CPAExcel classes to earn units.

[Anonymous]

What is the prime purpose of your networking? Are you trying to network with fellow CPA's or are you more interested in acquiring new clients?

[lyzgrace]

If you use them properly, BNI-type networking groups and chamber of commerce meeting are fabulous for networking and making connections in the community. That's only if you're looking to get out into other industries, though. If you're looking for CPA- or accounting-specific marketing, you may want to look into your state's accounting association (PA's is the PICPA).

Networking really is an art, and it's hard to get started. Down in ATL we have a pseudo-BNI organization called PowerCore and the lady who runs it is a networking GENIUS. Really gets into the psychology behind marketing and how to make profitable business relationships without being awkward or feeling like you're always trying to sell yourself. If you're really interested, look up her book Networking Aerobics. It's a really easy read with dos and don'ts of networking, I highly recommend it.

AUD: 82
FAR: 78
BEC: 75
REG: 8/1 score release!!

[Author]

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