The Value of Joining STC
In my inaugural address in Dallas this year, I talked about moving from terms like now generation STC and then generation STC to a unifying theme of Regeneration STC. This is the year we start building a new STC that will carry us into the future as a relevant, vital association essential to anyone in the field of technical communication.
Its a little like getting an electronic circuit to resonate; you find the right mix of components, jolt it, and then let the positive feedback of energy create a self-sustaining dynamic. The positive feedback for an association is membership. Value draws members in and keeps them. As membership grows, you can add more value. Increased value raises the retention rate and draws in even more members. Then voilá!—resonance.
There are three major initiatives that will give us the value/jolt we need:
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The Body of Knowledge. This group has defined what technical communicators need to know. They are defining an architecture that will make STC the definitive organization for information about technical communication.
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Certification. The certification program defines what technical communicators do and the processes that differentiate us from other types of communicators. It also defines the criteria that can reduce the risk of employing someone who says they can do the job. Once again, STC will be the authoritative body that employers turn to when they need to assess those claiming to be professionals in our field.
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Presence. This includes the revitalization of our media presence and a substantive rebranding of our public persona. More than a revamped website or new logo, this is a major rethinking of our technology platforms, communications, online channels, and who we think ought to be joining us.
The last bullet is at the forefront of my mind these days. I think our web presence will be the feedback loop that helps us reach the level of resonance in the marketplace required for us to prosper. It will draw professionals to us and be a channel to deliver value back to them. As an association, we’ve got to get out more, meet new friends, and bring them into our network.
And, of course, it always helps when we do that as members, too. So as we grow as a Society, think of those you know who could add and take value from being part of STC. Invite them to an STC chapter meeting, SIG presentation, or share an article or post with them. Communicate upward and outward. I think as a Society we will benefit from our association with you, and you will benefit from your association with the premiere professional society in your field.
