March is Membership Month at CPRS, which means this is a great time to join the society. If you sign up in March as a new member (or renew a lapsed membership), the standard $50 joining fee will be waived — and if you combine membership with a ticket to the upcoming CPRS National Conference, you'll save 20% off the posted Non-Member First Early Bird rate. Join us today!
Here's what you can look forward to at the CPRS National Conference - https://vimeo.com/881881242/b6ec4df9d9?share=copy
Why Join CPRS Vancouver?
1. Networking and Relationship Building
Relationships are pivotal to a successful career in public relations. As practitioners, we know that platforms like social media offer real-time, instant validation of one's efforts to engage, breaking down barriers such as geography and access to information. Despite this convenience, real human connection is key even in this digital age.
CPRS Vancouver is your opportunity to build a lasting network of friends, colleagues, and like-minded communications practitioners. As we've written before, you must build "authentic relationships with media, influencers, and industry leaders relevant to your company, brand or organization. Invest time in understanding their needs, values, and interests, and find common ground to establish trust and rapport. Genuine connections lay the foundation for fruitful collaborations that can elevate your PR campaigns to new heights."
CPRS Vancouver offers many networking events and other opportunities to get to know comms leaders in your city.
- PD Events: Opportunities for PR and Communications practitioners to come together to learn new skills and hear new insights
- Speaker Series: Events that feature high-profile speakers who are thought leaders in their field
- Leaders Network Events: Intimate gatherings for CPRS members who have achieved the Accredited in Public Relations designation (APR) or College of Fellows (FCPRS) status — or have at least 15 years of experience in the industry
- cPRsips: Regular opportunities for dialogue about timely and relevant topics — cPRsips is a small, intimate gathering over happy hour at a local watering hole
- Student Events: Opportunities for our student members to network and build skills to leap confidently into the PR industry
- Special Events: A time to mix and mingle! CPRS Special Events include holiday parties, AGMs, and social networking events
2. Career Advancement and Professional Development
Needless to say, effective networking can lead to exciting job opportunities. But career advancement is about more than just networking. Think of CPRS membership as a strategic investment in your career. Job boards, mentorship programs, and career development resources — CPRS is your go-to for levelling up. Whether you're eyeing a new gig, gunning for a promotion, or plotting a career pivot, CPRS can help provide the knowledge and expertise you need.
If you want to stay relevant in PR, you've got to keep learning. CPRS Vancouver and CPRS Canada serve up a diverse menu of workshops, webinars, and events, delivering the latest PR trends, strategies, and tools. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a fresh face in the field, continuous learning is your ticket to success — and CPRS is your VIP pass.
3. Industry Recognition and Certification
Want to stand out in the PR crowd? Being a CPRS member isn't just a badge; it's a spotlight on your commitment to top-tier PR. It's the kind of recognition that opens doors and propels your career to new heights.
Members gain access to awards and recognition programs that highlight excellence in the field. One example is the annual National Awards of Excellence. Established in 1962, the awards recognize exceptional public relations campaigns, both internal and external, as well as the dedication and contributions of PR professionals like yourself.
One way to set yourself apart in public relations is by obtaining the Accredited in Public Relations (APR)® designation. This certification has been a widely respected indicator of professional experience and competence in the field for over 50 years. Once earned, the APR demonstrates your commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism.
4. Resources and Tools
Knowledge is power. From research papers and case studies to industry reports and toolkits, CPRS gives you access to the latest PR insights. Equip yourself with the information and tools you need to navigate the unpredictable terrain of PR like a seasoned pro.
Apart from local chapter webinars and PD events, members also have access to CPRS National's Bill Rees Learning Centre, which boasts countless keynotes, workshops, webinars, white papers, articles, and recorded lectures for practitioners of all levels.