 Human resources professionals interested in furthering their HR knowledge and keeping up to date with the latest industry trends would do well to join the Academy of Human Resource Development. This global organization promotes “the study of human resource development theories, processes, and practices.” They also frequently send out educational resources and invitations to various networking opportunities. Members pay either $130 (students) or $220 (individuals) per year, and receive in exchange resources, publications, conference invites, award opportunities, and faculty mentoring |
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 The American Payroll Association (APA) has been a leading organization for HR professional since its founding in 1982. Aimed specifically at those who work in payroll, the APA offers its members conferences and seminars on the topic of payroll training, publications, and various educational resources. The association also offers Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) and Certified Payroll Certification (CPC). Individual memberships cost $219 per year.
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HR People + Strategy
 HR People + Strategy is associated with Society for Human Resources Management, the largest HR organization in the world and another entry on our list of the best organizations and associations for HR professionals. HR executives with 10 or more years of experience are invited to join HR People + Strategy. The organization focuses on developing talent, HR strategy and planning, and honing leadership skills. Membership costs range from $495 for an individual to $5,000 for an enterprise consisting of 12 members, and include next-level access to conferences, research and reports, and more.
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Human Capital Institute
 Human resources professionals are expected to keep up with the trends relating to recruiting and developing talent. That’s where the Human Capital Institute comes in. Members of this well-respected association have access to current academic research, HR mentors from prominent companies, a community of thoughtful leaders, and conferences held throughout the year. Community membership is free, though there are annual fees for corporate memberships, conferences, and certification programs.
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International Association for Human Resources Information Management
 The International Association for Human Resources Information Management (IHRIM) is one of the top membership organizations in the world for HR professionals working in information management. The association offers educational resources, professional certification, and uniquely, collaboration opportunities. Memberships cost $50 (students), $100 (faculty), $295 (individuals), or $2,800+ (corporations), and include job listings, conference invitations, access to a knowledgable community, webinars, and certifications, among other things.
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 The International Public Management Association for Human Resources, or IPMA-HR, has been around since 1906. The organization acts as a one-stop shop for the industry by providing news, educational resources, job opportunities, conference invites, training, and more. Though the international association does have a central governing body, there are more than 40 chapters throughout the United States, meaning members receive personalized attention and information most relevant to them.
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 This national association for HR professionals is specifically for African-Americans working in human resources. NAAAHR, as it’s known throughout the industry, describes itself as an “inspirational and unique career development and networking powerhouse.” Members receive myriad benefits, including networking opportunities, educational and professional development, mentorship and coaching, and more.
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National Human Resources Association
 Though it’s smaller than some of the other HR organizations and associations on our list, the National Human Resources Association (NHRA) provides deeper, more intimate opportunities for HR professionals to learn and connect with others. The non-profit association is run entirely by volunteers.
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Society for Human Resources Management
 With more than 275,000 members across 160 countries, Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) is the largest HR organization in the world. The group is dedicated to human resources management and, according to its website, seeks to “serve the needs of HR professionals and advance the professional practice of human resource management.” SHRM produces publications and industry research; offers awards, scholarships, and certifications; and organizes conferences.
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