Being noncommittal to your professional development is like walking a tight rope across two tall buildings – once you fall off, it is really hard to get back on. Now is the time to create a plan for yourself or your client to continue education, participate in conferences, seek online learning opportunities or any of a myriad of ways to increase skills. Stagnation is not an option. ~ David M. Reile, Ph.D.
Photo by Danijela Froki on Unsplash
FOCUS ON: Adult Learners Are Different
Practitioners who encourage clients to pursue professional development (or want to pursue it for themselves) need to understand the principles behind adult learning. This will help the adult keep the end goal in mind, while selecting a practical program that is self-directed. When adults get too pressed for time to complete professional development, their intrinsic motivation may kick-in to make it happen. Read more.
JOB SEARCHING: Get in a Position to Get a New Job
Hiring is particularly strong in April and May. Since it is a period of rebirth, employers and job seekers may both have a more positive outlook. Even if people are not looking for new jobs, it is valuable to use the job listings to assess a potential for a new job – which skills match what employers are looking and which areas need a little work (i.e., professional development). Read more from the Money & Career Cheatsheet.
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: The Four C’s in Certification
Because so many professional organizations offer certifications, the individual must be strategic in achieving the desired goal. The keys to selecting/obtaining certifications are credibility, commitment, connection, and communication. If you have identified the certification you want, get inspired by this infographic which depicts one person’s journey toward an ATD CPLP (Association for Talent Development’s Certified Professional in Learning and Performance).
TOP TEN: Tips for Delivering Awesome Professional Development
Offering a program where others can learn and grow is not as easy as showing up and talking. Obviously you will want to plan and prepare, but you also need to offer choices and build on the expertise in the room. Read all top ten tips before your next presentation.
FOR PRACTITIONERS: Clients must Learn and Demonstrate Skills
What does it take to compete in today’s economy? Get training. Traditional schooling is not the only path toward achieving a great career. “Everyone should to be able to easily demonstrate the skills they have as well as learn new skills that they need to compete in today’s economy,” says Zoë Baird on LinkedIn. Read more about what needs to be done to grow professionally.
QUOTES
“The simplicity of winter has a deep moral. The return of Nature, after such a career of splendor and prodigality, to habits so simple and austere, is not lost either upon the head or the heart.” - John Burroughs
“Begin with the End in Mind means to begin each day, task, or project with a clear vision of your desired direction and destination, and then continue by flexing your proactive muscles to make things happen.” - Stephen Covey