Being visible professionally helps you to make a name for yourself in your field. Campus service, on the other hand, does not improve a professional reputation. It's often dismissed and undervalued, because research and teaching usually determine tenure and promotion decisions. Nonetheless, for many people, campus service is important and often enjoyable. In addition, being regarded in a positive light by colleagues across campus can help when tenure decisions are made.
Service also allows faculty members to contribute meaningfully to the life of the college.
You should also find out how many committees and projects you are expected to be involved with, and whether you might serve on campuswide committees. If you are a member of a historically underrepresented group on your campus, you may be sought out for advising and service more frequently than your colleagues. You might want to consider the following questions in addition to those posed above.