Everyone thinks HR is crucial (das logisch). With high absenteeism in many sectors, tight labor markets (that will never end), the rapid rise of AI and the growing importance of strong leadership, HR plays a key role in shaping the future of work. We also have to deal with ever-changing legislation and the social context that demands a lot from companies. HR is the place where this comes together. And where do HR professionals come together? At professional association NVP. Or does it?
NVP & Bunchmark
As an HR professional, you undoubtedly know NVP (the professional association for the HR profession). But the key question; are you a member?
I, Irene, have been president of NVP for 3 years and I am proud of that. Together with a board of eight members, I steer this membership association. That means at least one day a week attending events to meet members, organizing knowledge meetings, propagating the mission of NVP, speaking to the press about the trends in People & Culture, consulting with decision makers in The Hague about new developments in the law and our profession.
In our HR roles, we need up-to-date knowledge of legislation and new scientific insights and trends, best practices and developments. That requires good representation. And that’s what NVP stands for. Besides, my membership brings me a lot personally: I learn plenty. And yet and yet … the question that is on my mind: where is the flow of applications for this cool association?
Unknown and unloved
In my Bunchmark consulting practice, I encounter them a lot: the HR Manager of a small organization who has to deal with all the questions and challenges of our broad profession – and is on his or her own. “Join NVP!”, I always want to shout then (and often do). The investment is low (membership costs you 260 euros per year) and you really get a lot in return; conferences, meetings and access to a huge amount of knowledge about everything to do with HR. Surely every company or executive wants to pay this for their HR managers?
Still, we have to reach out. Of course, the fact that the flood of applications is not due to these HR managers, executives or organizations, but to us as an association. Many HR pros do not know the benefits of NVP. Yet it is is a professional association that has been around for decades. Created in 1961 to give visibility to our People & Culture profession. Estimates indicate that there are 75,000 HR professionals working in the Netherlands. NVP currently has 1,200 members – that’s only 1.6%. Incidentally, we do reach more Dutch professionals through our linkedIn community, which fortunately has many thousands more followers.
I wonder why it makes so much sense for doctors, accountants or coaches to find their way to a professional association where knowledge and standards are central. And this is so different for People & Culture professionals. Many colleague associations abroad are also large and impactful. We know some of the reasons and we work hard on this every day. What it will take to turn this around significantly – that has occupied our minds for some time.
Get rid of the old-fashioned image
How do you go from stuffy to hip? What can a professional association like NVP do to make the move to a club you want to belong to? Because your employer advises you to, or because all your colleagues are also members. A Tik-Tok account, maybe a new look? How much influence do you actually have over something like that?
Do you have ideas, experiences or questions? Feel free to share them below or contact me at irene@bunchmark.com.
Together, we keep the profession strong and visible.
