By Isqil Najim
In his piece, kendell Power narrated a story of Alfredo Giron-Nava. According to him, “Alfredo Giron-Nava didn’t spot many peers at the inaugural meeting of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Sciences for Sustainable Development. The postdoctoral researcher was one of only six junior scientists at the event, held in Copenhagen in May 2019.
Four of them began discussions on how to boost the representation of junior scientists in the initiative, which sets global research priorities for ocean sciences.
After they persuaded organizers to give them a concluding talk slot, Giron-Nava, who later became a fisheries researcher at Stanford University in California, told the meeting, “It’s important to have early-career researchers who, at the end of the decade, will feel ownership and leadership of the objectives we are deciding here.” The room erupted in applause.
This story reminds me of my own journey to the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) years ago.
So how can young professionals land a seat in table? How can you, aa graduate entering professional association make your mark and become integral part of the system?
Make the First Step
What are the areas that younger professionals are needed to make their voices heard within their professional associations? For instance, at the Nigerian Society of Engineers, NSE?
What areas within professional associations, like the NSE, NATE, NISET etc, offer opportunities for younger professionals to make their voices heard? Internal systems exist to expose young professionals to high-level decision-making. The most important step is getting that first break. The easiest path is through professional bodies and their committees. Ironically, many young engineers claim they gain nothing from participation. Upon closer examination, these complaints often stem from a desire for instant gratification. While seeking employment and better opportunities is okay, positioning oneself where influential figures are and gaining their confidence is crucial.
“Stay in touch with shaping the profession you are going to be living in — leadership positions do that in a direct way,” –Juan Pablo Alperin.
Try a committee
Join a committee or contest for a lower position, such as Assistant PRO or Assistant Secretary, and serve under a senior engineer. This allows for mutual learning and showcasing abilities. I recommend Committee participation so you can understand the inner workings of the organization. Contesting elections, especially against potential mentors, carries risks.
Meetings and Conferences.
Attend Conference. Attend meetings. In these gatherings, identify leaders and offer assistance where one is needed, strike up meaningful conversations. While some may perceive this as demeaning, it can attract attention. Simple acts of kindness and selfless volunteering are noticed.
Usher? why not?
Being an usher provides visibility. It offers opportunities to interact with high-level individuals through politeness and service. They will pay attention.
Seek Advice! Ask questions!
Seek the opinions of highly regarded experts and listen attentively. Engage sincerely with genuine questions. This gains knowledge and builds trust, potentially leading to nominations for impactful responsibilities.
Update yourself! and stay humble.
Stay humble, but heed Steve Jobs’ advice to “stay foolish.” Wise counsel may not always make immediate sense. Be eager to learn and avoid judging opinions you disagree with.
Tag them!
Utilize social media to engage. Tag influential figures. While they may not always respond, some will offer advice. Ensure your posts are meaningful. It’s better to remain silent than to post content that jeopardizes future opportunities. many people read what you wrote and pay attention without ever engaging you.
Go extra mile
Young professionals bring new skills and perspectives, but these are not always enough for leadership positions. Go the extra mile by acquiring soft skills and emotional intelligence. Mingle with experienced individuals and learn from their guidance.
Share knowledge
Share your knowledge. In the digital age, knowledge is not a finite resource. Like lecturers, sharing knowledge leads to growth. Do not bury your talents. Explore and position yourself where opportunities arise. If you possess knowledge that can be hidden, it is a secret, not knowledge. Secrets are carried to the grave. Share to improve and learn from those more experienced.
Read! Read!! Read!!!
Read passionately on your areas of interest. Everyone considered a genius reads and learns.
Community Services is a key!
Community service complements professional endeavors. Contribute to worthy causes. The NSE now offers community service programmes at Branch and Division levels. Focus on positioning yourself for higher leadership. Selfless service will be remembered when opportunities arise.
Time investment
Some positions require significant time for meetings, calls, and conferences. Be prepared for deadlines.
Write!
Writing can catapult you into the minds of those far away. Your writing reveals your intellect. Maintain a positive social media presence.
Make Presentations at Professional Gatherings!
Presentations and insightful comments showcase your intelligence and knowledge, positioning you closer to senior roles. You can present on behalf of your company.
“The world steps aside for the man who knows where he is going,” – James Allen.
I am Isqil Najim follow me on twitter @isqilnajim