When asked to be a guest blogger, I reflected on what I might share from my experiences that could help other members. One question that often comes up is “How do I become more involved in NANN or NANNP?” So I’d like to share some insights into this sometimes daunting, but ultimately rewarding process.
First, congratulations on being a member of NANN/P! That really is your first step; it demonstrates that you are committed to advancing yourself professionally and value the networking and information that can only come from being part of your professional nursing organization. Next, look for opportunities. These can come in many forms, for some it may be participating at the local level through a NANN chapter. For others it’s signing up for listservs on MyNANN and participating in discussions. And of course there is attending the annual conference which offers countless opportunities for networking.
Still others increase their engagement by answering a call for volunteers. Calls for volunteers are posted on the nann.org website under the Member Center tab and Volunteer Opportunities link and may also be advertised in NANN E-news, E-Alerts, NANN Central, Smart Brief and MyNANN. Each volunteer opportunity listed includes the formal charge to the taskforce, the length of service expected from the volunteer, and the education and experience sought. CVs, statements of interest, and a completed Volunteer & Conflict of Interest Form will be collected from candidates to assist the taskforce chair in selecting members. This is a great way to become involved in the leadership of NANN/P.
With experience on taskforces or committees under your belt, a next step could be serving as a taskforce or committee chair. Leading a workgroup for NANN/P allows further leadership growth opportunities and increased networking with NANN Board and NANNP Council members. This is usually a two year commitment, but may vary depending on the committee. Members that have served on or lead taskforces or committees often become interested in running for a NANN Board or NANNP Council position. These are elected positions that also require a minimum of a two year commitment.
It is an exciting and rewarding experience to be part of NANN/P’s leadership team at all levels of engagement. We welcome new and experienced nurses and NNPs that are interested in exploring the possibilities of increased engagement with NANN and NANNP. All Board and Council members are available through MyNANN and would be happy to assist you in your leadership endeavors.
- Susan Meier, NANNP Council Chair
First, congratulations on being a member of NANN/P! That really is your first step; it demonstrates that you are committed to advancing yourself professionally and value the networking and information that can only come from being part of your professional nursing organization. Next, look for opportunities. These can come in many forms, for some it may be participating at the local level through a NANN chapter. For others it’s signing up for listservs on MyNANN and participating in discussions. And of course there is attending the annual conference which offers countless opportunities for networking.
Still others increase their engagement by answering a call for volunteers. Calls for volunteers are posted on the nann.org website under the Member Center tab and Volunteer Opportunities link and may also be advertised in NANN E-news, E-Alerts, NANN Central, Smart Brief and MyNANN. Each volunteer opportunity listed includes the formal charge to the taskforce, the length of service expected from the volunteer, and the education and experience sought. CVs, statements of interest, and a completed Volunteer & Conflict of Interest Form will be collected from candidates to assist the taskforce chair in selecting members. This is a great way to become involved in the leadership of NANN/P.
With experience on taskforces or committees under your belt, a next step could be serving as a taskforce or committee chair. Leading a workgroup for NANN/P allows further leadership growth opportunities and increased networking with NANN Board and NANNP Council members. This is usually a two year commitment, but may vary depending on the committee. Members that have served on or lead taskforces or committees often become interested in running for a NANN Board or NANNP Council position. These are elected positions that also require a minimum of a two year commitment.
It is an exciting and rewarding experience to be part of NANN/P’s leadership team at all levels of engagement. We welcome new and experienced nurses and NNPs that are interested in exploring the possibilities of increased engagement with NANN and NANNP. All Board and Council members are available through MyNANN and would be happy to assist you in your leadership endeavors.
- Susan Meier, NANNP Council Chair