Does anyone know about the worth of professional bodies in the UK? I know that the BCS and IET exist but am unsure as to what they offer. I've just started a graduate job and am wondering if it is worth joining.
+1
A:
I worked for years before joining the BCS and only joined because they gave a discount to conferences that I went to.
The one good thing that I can say for the BCS is the local BCS groups are good for networking.
AutomatedTester
2009-07-28 09:56:22
I would agree with this. On a positive note though I've found that networking is the best way to discover which companies are good to work for and who is currently recruiting. This is invaluable especially at present :)
MikeD
2009-07-28 10:37:20
Most local BCS groups are happy for you to go to there meating without being a BCS member. However I have found groups like the NxtGenUG to be of more use to professional programmers. BCS seems to be mostly ex programmers that are now doing something else
Ian Ringrose
2009-07-28 10:48:30
A:
Local BCS groups are good for networking (as mentioned above). Also Chartered Status in the BCS is gradually becoming a respected professional qualification.
Charlie
2009-07-28 14:29:50