Networking, training and sharing information makes it worthwhile to be an ABSW member
Here are the results of the ABSW member survey.
Around three-quarters of the members who participated in the ABSW survey launched in October 2023 would recommend someone they know to become part of the association. The other quarter said maybe.
“As a freelancer, I really value the sense of community that having a shared working experience fosters: thanks to the ABSW I never feel alone when dealing with the ups and downs of this profession,” shared Sharon Ann Holgate, a freelance science writer and broadcaster and member since the 90's, in the survey.
Members value networking and socialising with like-minded professionals (81%), attending events and training at member-discounted rates (67%), and hearing about jobs and opportunities within their profession (62%). When discussing membership benefits, members put at the top of the list: our members directory; sharing information in the newsletter, forum, and social media; jobs and opportunities; and events and training.
“As a freelancer, it's good to be part of a community where I can interact with and learn from other people,” wrote Helen Pilcher, an author, speaker and science communication consultant and member since 2012.
Most respondents prefer in-person events (78%), but some want more events outside London. It is up to members to set up local groups with ABSW support, like the successful Bristol science book group. Online or hybrid events are also a solution for a community with 760 members who look for greater connection.
123 members participated, 79% being full members, 12% associate members, and 9% student members.
“I feel that the ABSW played a critical role in my transitioning from academia to science writing 7 years ago and continues to make me feel like I'm part of a mutually supportive community,” wrote Liam Drew, science writer and biologist, and member since 2017.
You can find the summary and highlights of the survey report here.
Correction (2024-04-26): Sharon Ann Holgate has been a member for longer than 2009 as stated before.
