Observe both the function and structure of the professional activities around you and try to make connections about why and how items were included or excluded. Observe the kinds of cognitive leaps and connections that people you admire make in discussions and meetings and reflect on how these people think through problems and find solutions. Determine the key sources from which the information you need to grow professionally is available in an ongoing manner—websites, listservs, newletters, journals, and other periodicals—and set aside the time each day to read something from these sources. Think of every conference, meeting, and committee as a professional development opportunity where you can learn at least one new thing, share information with others, expand your network of contacts, and develop relationships. Seek out opportunities to serve on inter-departmental or interagency committees, committees of any professional associations that you belong to, review panels for grantmakers, nonprofit boards, and so on. In addition to contributing to the success of the group, you have the opportunity to develop new skills, gain new perspectives, and build personal and professional relationships.
This blog is on topics of interest to early career professionals who work with people with disabilities. Blog contributors have diverse perspectives on leadership, professional development, and success in changing systems to better serve people with disabilities and their families. For more information on Early Career Professionals, check out the website: www.aucd.org/ecp

27 April, 2010
Self-Directed Professional Development
Observe both the function and structure of the professional activities around you and try to make connections about why and how items were included or excluded. Observe the kinds of cognitive leaps and connections that people you admire make in discussions and meetings and reflect on how these people think through problems and find solutions. Determine the key sources from which the information you need to grow professionally is available in an ongoing manner—websites, listservs, newletters, journals, and other periodicals—and set aside the time each day to read something from these sources. Think of every conference, meeting, and committee as a professional development opportunity where you can learn at least one new thing, share information with others, expand your network of contacts, and develop relationships. Seek out opportunities to serve on inter-departmental or interagency committees, committees of any professional associations that you belong to, review panels for grantmakers, nonprofit boards, and so on. In addition to contributing to the success of the group, you have the opportunity to develop new skills, gain new perspectives, and build personal and professional relationships.
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