Media professional unions and groups may not be worth being joined by journalists except they exploit the opportunities offered by online platforms to better the lot of their members.
Popular journalist and media career development specialist, Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, made this assertion on Thursday in a number of tweets.
The Executive Director of Media Career Development Network, MCDN, stressed that the unions and associations needed to be there for their members more than they might have been.
According to him, the groups should use the platforms to, among other things, help in making available, relevant information and resources that could enhance their members’ careers.
The tweets read:
“ATTENTION: JOURNALISTS PROFESSIONAL GROUPS
“More than ever before, our professional unions, associations and groups have to be there for their members. A lot can be achieved and many can easily be reached using online and new media platforms. We are not as visible enough for now.
“Where are our regularly updated websites and social media handles with information and resources for our members to show that we are the real professionals in the industry as we claim?
“Technology will not replace traditional experience and knowledge we have acquired over the years, but we must utilize new platforms to enhance what we already know and are capable of doing. Our members need the latest industry reports. They need information and resources that can enhance their careers. In the confusion of the digital disruption of our industry, they need help with acquiring new skills to remain relevant. They need guidance on local & global opportunities & networks they can take advantage of.
“The good thing is that it shouldn’t cost us much to meet the expectations of our members. We must seek available support and collaboration for the benefit of our members.
“Except we do the above and more, our professional groups will not be worth our memberships.”
