If you can only afford one organization, I highly recommend the Interantional Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). This organization has monthly local meetings and occational state meetings and international meetings. Having local meetings gives members the opportunity to develop personally and professionally in a supportive environment. You have the ability to grown and learn at your own pace remembering that you only get out of it what you put into it. The more involved you are, the more you really get out of your membership. I've learned advanced leadership and other professional skills that I would have never learned in my day-to-day job. I would welcome additonal discussion if you would like to email me at rmstrong@eastman.com. (I also belong to a couple of other professional organizations, but IAAP is the best, by far.)

You should look into the International Association of Adminstrative Assistants (IAAP)

I would recommend the Association of Executive and Administrative Professionals (http://www.theaeap.com/). They have a very helpful monthly newsletter, member discounts on things like rental cars, and a forum. They also offer online classes at a good rate - I took an Administrative Assistant Fundamentals course for $99.

The IAAP professional membership is only slightly more than $100 per year. If your supervisor has suggested joining, maybe the company will pay your annual dues. It's worth checking out. I've been an IAAP member for just about 5 years and have found that the networking and leadership opportunities have helped in my job. The Admin Pro Forum is also a great supplement to my IAAP membership.

I agree with all the above. I have been an IAAP member for 4 years and recently received my CPS designation (Certified Professional Secretary) through this organization. This is a widely recognized and respected designation for administrative professionals. It shows your employer you are dedicated to your profession and think of it as a career and not just another job. Go to their website and browse http://www.iaap-hq.org/index.htm

I've been a member of IAAP for about ten years. If you do not have a local chapter, which currenty I do not, you can still be a member-at-large.