Building Your Academic Brand: Getting On a Committee

While publishing, presenting, and securing speaking engagements are excellent ways to amplify your niche, another powerful strategy is to get involved with the committees and working groups within your professional organizations. 

Committee participation allows you to shape the direction of your field directly and increase your visibility among leadership and decision-makers.

And I will let you know, that once you get known for being someone who Does the Work – you will be asked to do more things than you want to. ☺ And this is one of the most important thing about working on committees – You Have To Do The Work! 

But I am getting ahead of myself.

 In order to GET on the committee, I recommend that you do the following:

1. Pick An Organization (or 2)

While there are likely a lot of organizations where you could get involved, at the beginning of this journey it makes sense to pick the couple where you want to focus your energy. You may select those organizations which are the most important to you and your career. Or, you may choose one where you have mentors and sponsors who can help you get involved more quickly. 

If you are not sure where to start, I recommend selecting one or two organizations that most closely align with your focus areas and interests. Devote your energy strategically to these core groups rather than spreading yourself too thin across many different committees.

2. Pick a Committee

Once you have an organization or 2 selected, determine which specific committees are the best fit for advancing your niche and goals. Again, this will often align with your clinical area of expertise, but it could be something more global like practice management, the business of medicine or advocacy.  Similar to my advice on how to select your niche, I recommend aligning your work with the areas where you are passionate or at least excited!

3. If There are Open Meetings, Attend the Meeting as a Guest

Attend meetings as a guest, if permitted, and make sure that you sign in as a guest if there is a sign in sheet. Be sure to introduce yourself to the committee chair/leadership at the beginning or the end. 

If there are not open meetings, reach out directly to the committee chairs expressing your enthusiasm and interest in getting involved and lets them know about your area of expertise.  

Even if the answer is no to guest input, this allows them to know what you do and that you are enthusiastic about helping! And you will move to the top of the list of people to include next time around. 

4. Offer to volunteer your time and expertise as a non-member. 

If you are able to talk to the leadership ahead of time, feel free to ask about opportunities to help as a guest. 

If you are not able to do this, it is ok to raise your hand (if it feels right) or talk to the chair at the end of the meeting.

I absolutely recommend that you offer to work in the area that you want to be known for (Read more about this at my previous post know your one word). 

5. Understand the Process to Get On the Committee

Different organization have different ways to get on the committee. Look on the website, talk to the current chair, ask your mentors and colleagues if it is not clear. 

In many cases, you'll need to apply during designated windows or discuss your interests with those responsible for appointments. 

Don't be afraid to be proactive and seek out these pathways. A well-timed, thoughtful outreach can go a long way.

6. Volunteer for Existing Initiatives that Align with Your Niche

Once you've landed a coveted committee position, it's time to make your mark. Scan the various subcommittees, task forces, and initiatives, and raise your hand to join those that most pique your passion and align with your niche. 

If your area of focus is not on the agenda, mention it and your enthusiasm during a brainstorming session or request for new business. It may not make the agenda this year, but will be much more likley to be accepted when you mention it again…or enlist others with similar interests to recommend it. 

7. Deliver on What You Volunteer For

I know it sounds completely obvious, but few people raise their hand to volunteer and even fewer follow through on what they have committed to… especially without being hassled to deliver. 

When you volunteer for a role or project, ensure you follow through diligently and deliver on your commitments with excellence. Completing assignments thoroughly and communicating effectively will demonstrate your dedication and professionalism.

And result in your being asked to move into leadership roles, do more in service to the organization, and raise your profile. 

8. Drive the Agenda

Remember, joining a committee isn't about passive membership – it's an opportunity to drive change proactively. Share your insights, suggest new initiatives (including those tied to your specialized knowledge), and seek out leadership roles that enable you to guide strategy and decisions. This level of engaged participation will solidify your reputation as an innovative thought leader.

Throughout this journey, maintain your strategic focus. While other intriguing projects may arise, remain selective in where you dedicate your finite time and energy. By concentrating your committee involvement in areas that directly bolster your defined niche, you'll maximize your impact and accelerate your progression as an authority.

Navigating the complexities of committee participation can be challenging, but the payoffs are immense – from expanding your professional network to shaping your the field. 

Embrace these opportunities and watch as your influence and impact grow.

Don’t forget to enjoy yourself, network and make friends, learn something as you Build Your National Reputation. 

If you are interested in a summary of these tips, please look for the Medical Conference Checklist on my website at www.medicalmentorcoaching.com