Over the course of a career, certain truths become impossible to ignore. One of the most powerful is simple: you get only if you give.
This idea is often captured in the philosophy of “Givers Gain,” popularized by Ivan Misner of BNI. At its core, it means that the more you contribute—without expectation—the more value, support, and opportunity you ultimately receive in return.
A Full Plate, But a Better One
Like many professionals in facilities management, my workload has always been full. That hasn’t changed. What has changed is how that work feels.
Since becoming actively involved in International Facility Management Association (IFMA), my responsibilities have expanded—committee member, committee chair, board member, executive board. On paper, that sounds like more pressure. In reality, it has brought more energy, more purpose, and more enjoyment into everything I do—including my day job.
Why? Because involvement builds something far more valuable than a résumé: a network of people who support, guide, challenge, and inspire you.
The Power of Showing Up
Through IFMA, I’ve had the privilege of serving as Vice President of my local chapter and Vice President of the Facility Management Consultants Council. These roles didn’t just expand my responsibilities—they expanded my world.
That involvement led to becoming part of the IFMA Foundation’s Ambassadors Group. From there came opportunities I never would have expected:
- Industry recognition and awards
- Published work in business and FM publications
- Speaking engagements
- Judging award nominations
- Collaborating on initiatives like introducing high school students to facilities management as a career
Yes, it brought more work. But it also brought more meaning.
It’s Not About the Titles
It’s easy to focus on the visible outcomes—titles, awards, speaking slots—but those are just by-products. The real value lies in the relationships built along the way.
When you actively contribute, you create genuine connections. You build trust. You become part of something bigger than yourself. And in return, you gain mentorship, support, and lifelong friendships that shape both your career and your perspective.
This is why it’s always puzzled me when professionals join associations but remain on the sidelines.
You Don’t Get If You Don’t Give
Membership alone doesn’t create value—participation does.
If people sense you’re only there for personal gain, your network will reflect that. But when you show up with a mindset of contribution, everything changes.
This doesn’t mean everyone needs to take on multiple leadership roles. It simply means starting somewhere:
- Attend meetings regularly
- Join a committee
- Volunteer for small initiatives
You won’t know the impact until you take that first step. And more often than not, that small step leads to something bigger.
Growth Beyond Career
Getting involved does more than advance your career—it changes how you feel about it.
When you push yourself to contribute, you:
- Gain confidence
- Develop new skills
- Build meaningful relationships
- Find greater satisfaction in your work
It’s not just professional growth—it’s personal growth.
A “Give First” Mindset
A close friend of mine embodies a “give first” philosophy. His example has been a constant source of inspiration. He never looks for recognition—he looks for ways to contribute.
Seeing that mindset in action reinforces a simple truth: involvement isn’t about accolades. It’s about impact.
When he was appointed to the IFMA Global Board, it felt like a natural outcome of years of consistent contribution. A reminder that when you give, growth follows.
Get Your Money’s Worth And More
So why pay membership dues only to stay on the sidelines?
If you’re going to join an association, commit to it. Get your money’s worth—but more importantly, get your life’s worth.
Step forward. Get involved. Associations thrive on participation, and in turn, they create opportunities for those who contribute.
Involvement isn’t just an activity—it’s a catalyst.
And once you experience it, you won’t want to stop.
