The other day, as I sat eating my lunch, I did what most of us do, I scrolled and scrolled until I was lost in the rabbit hole that is social media. Then the algorithm suddenly changed and went from dog videos to inspirational quotes with one really sticking out.
“Community is much more than belonging to something; it’s about doing something together that makes belonging matter.” – Brian Solis, digital anthropologist
The importance of community is something that we at PINE work very hard to instill in our messaging to members and nonmembers. We want everyone who engages with the association to feel that sense of belonging, to satisfy that basic human need. Following an event, the biggest complement I can receive is not “you’re doing a great job,” it’s “I met so-and-so and we’re collaborating on a job,” or “Thanks for putting this together, I was able to pass along my resume to a few printers.” Those connections are why we work tirelessly to provide opportunities for members to belong to such a positive community.
Over the past few weeks, we have seen the flowers start to blossom as spring makes its way into New England. The PINE team and I have been fortunate enough to see this community start blossoming as well. Whether it’s at a Coffee with Christine or a Print on Tap, we can see that the value of strong connections we hold so highly, our members do as well. Being part of the same industry, you all share so many experiences. Talking those through, telling stories, creating that bond is invaluable and builds a community where belonging to it matters and fulfills one’s professional self.
However, maintaining a positive community requires active participation. As Solis said, “it’s about doing something together.” So, register your team for a virtual workshop, network with peers over a beer, treat a client to a day out on the golf course. Engage with your association, belong to your community of print professionals, because without that support in place, the alternative is too lonely to fathom. You belong to something that matters, keep the connection alive!
