Networking is an important component in being an effective leader as it provides an introduction to a diversity of thought and practice that a leader may not be exposed to otherwise. Sheila lives in Missouri and decided that she wanted to become more involved in the HIM profession at both the state and national levels. She started by asking to be a member of the Missouri Health Information Management Association's (MoHIMA) committee on EHR implementation. Through this committee she met fellow HIM professionals throughout the state that shared common issues and unique solutions about implementing the her system in their facilities. Satisfied with her growth through her association with MoHIMA, Sheila next turned to volunteering with AHIMA. She volunteered to be on the question writing committee for the Commission on Certification for Health Informatics and Information Management (CCHIIM). Through this committee she was able to make many contacts nationwide. Being a CCHIIM member also allowed her to be considered for additional volunteer opportunities with AHIMA, again increasing her knowledge outside of her organization. Sheila found out that being involved with both MoHIMA and AHIMA added to others' perceptions of her as both employees and managers appreciated that she was recognized both statewide and nationally as an HIM expert and being a leader.
1. Sheila has enhanced her career progression by volunteering at both the state and national levels of the profession. So far, she has been a member of a team but she desires to progress into leadership positions at the national level. What should her plan be?
2. By volunteering at both the state and national levels, Sheila has developed professional networks that have opened additional career opportunities outside the state of Missouri. However, she has not been selected for these other positions. What should she do to make herself more attractive to a potential employer?
3. Thinking of Sheila's path to leadership, what can you do, as a student, to begin networking and being involved locally and nationally in HIM?