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| Path: Main Street : Resources & Library : Research Articles : Feature Article |
Professional development: Where do you start?
By Deb Randall
November 19, 2009
Professional development is always a hot topic for not-for-profit employees. With its own set of intricacies, it can be difficult to find the education and training that addresses the sector’s changing demands.
So, where do you begin? At the root, the skills and knowledge you need to do your job effectively are classified into competencies. But what is a competency? According to Dr. Vic Catano, Department of Psychology at St. Mary’s University, a competency is a label given to a group of related behaviours considered important for effective job performance. He also states that since there is no standard definition, organizations typically adopt their own. What this essentially means is that competencies are measurable attributes or behaviours that distinguish outstanding performers from others in a defined organizational context.
How, then, do we uncover what competencies are relevant for the not-for-profit sector? One example of a credentialing program is the online Certified Association Executive (CAE®) Program offered by the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE). CSAE, which has been certifying executives since 1972 through the CAE® Program, has identified 44 not-for-profit management competencies covering a range of skills and knowledge that are key requirements for all NFP executives. These competencies can be used as a guide to evaluate your skills and abilities, as well as identify gaps. This, in turn, will help you develop a training plan and identify suitable courses that meet your learning objectives.
In this example, the competencies are divided into six domains: leadership; structure and environment; direction and strategy; membership services; operations support; and products and services. The highlighted themes include: organizational governance and working with volunteers; member relations, including recruitment and retention; key considerations when running the organization, including legal, accounting, tax, facilities and technology; and developing new products and services that, in the end, help your organization grow so it can meet its potential.
To take it one step further, we can look at the competency related to member communications. In this era of technology and the Internet, you can send an e-blast in a few clicks and track down any information you need using Google. It becomes increasingly apparent that one of the primary goals of an association is to communicate to members and key stakeholders with a formalized plan using a variety of media. The message must be one that accurately portrays the value proposition of the organization and keeps members' interest. This theme, among many, is covered in the program because of its relevance and timeliness. Since there are so many facets to running a not-for-profit organization, it is essential that you have a clear understanding of the importance of each area and, depending on your size, have a team that excels in their expertise and brings new ideas to the table that move your organization forward.
A recent graduate, Christine Nielsen-Trowhill, CAE, BHA, MLT from the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario, describes how this program made a positive impact for her own professional development. “I have worked in the not-for-profit sector for over ten years and the CAE® Program provided me with immediate, tangible information and strategies throughout the course. This program is unique, it helps you understand good governance, best practices, is research-based, and expands your network. Problem-solving and collaboration are built into the program, making for a unique, rewarding experience. I have learned how to create reports that are well-researched, effectively resourced, and get results.”
While the CAE® Program may be the only comprehensive not-for-profit program in Canada leading to a professional designation, it is but one of the many options to consider. You must decide what learning style best fits your needs. Whether you want the convenience of an online program, a class setting with a defined time each week, or a full-day session targeted to a specific topic, the possibilities are endless.
As the leaves change and the frost begins, you can feel the year winding to an end. It is the perfect time to set goals for the coming year and strengthen your skills and resume. Once you have uncovered your skill and knowledge gaps, you can research which programs will fit with your vision and create or further develop a valuable training plan. As we start a new decade, ask yourself, "What will I do to invest in myself?"
Deb Randall is the supervisor for the Certified Association Executive (CAE®) Program offered by the Canadian Society of Association Executives. She can be reached directly at 1-800-461-3608, extension 242, or by email at deb@csae.com.
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