Are you a public relations or communications professional? Then you probably realize the importance of getting out and networking! If you’re located here at a Raleigh PR agency or somewhere else in the Triangle, there are two great organizations you should consider joining: the North Carolina Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (NCPRSA) or the Raleigh Public Relations Society (RPRS). While I personally recommend becoming a member of both, if you had to pick just one, here are a few tips that will help you decide which group is right for you.

For starters, let’s take a look at what is offered by both groups:

• Luncheons are held each month, where local PR professionals and industry leaders will share ideas and case studies.
• Each group hosts an annual awards ceremony – NCPRSA hosts the InSpire Awards and RPRS hosts the Sir Walter Raleigh Awards – recognizing successful communications campaigns and tactics.
• Members receive discounted rates on monthly luncheons and other events.

Now, let’s hone in on what NCPRSA has to offer:

• This group is comprised of PR professionals with a broad range of experiences and leadership positions at every level. From CEOs to entry-level employees, there’s a lot of variety.
• Each year, the organization hosts a PR & Marketing Seminar, playing host to both local and national communications experts.
• On the website, members have access to the NCPRSA Job Bank, where local employers frequently post new job openings and leadership opportunities.
• The North Carolina chapter of PRSA is part of the world’s largest network of PR professionals.
• Within PRSA, you have the option to join one of 16 professional interest sections, putting you in touch with other members who share your expertise.
• The organization offers the industries only accreditation program, Accredited in Public Relations (APR) program.
• When you become a member, you’ll receive periodicals, daily news updates and access to research, articles, white papers and case studies.
• Because of the larger network, dues are pricier than other local groups. National dues are $255 annually, plus a $65 initiation fee and the local chapter fee.

Now let’s take a look at what RPRS has to offer:

• This group also features PR professionals at every career level, but has an especially strong presence of entry-level to account supervisor-level members.
• In addition to monthly luncheons, this group will occasionally arrange tours at local media outlets.
• Twice a year, the organization will host free networking socials at popular Raleigh restaurants.
• An attractive economic option for members with a smaller budget, individual dues are only $75 annually.

Now that you’ve had a chance to learn more about these wonderful organizations, feel free to ask questions. Dana and Tracy both sit on the board for NCPRSA, while I (Josie) serve as publicity chair for RPRS. We’d love to help you decide which group (or if both groups) is right for you!