Ahead of the Curve

The value of education can’t be overstated — especially in uncertain times. Whether for members and volunteers or your own leadership team, lifelong learning brings a variety of benefits, such as making you more adaptable in response to change and more accepting of risk. Learning, openness and curiosity all can have a positive impact on your health and boost confidence and self-esteem.

If you’re looking to refresh your educational offerings, Association Forum’s Professional Practice Statement “Lifelong Learning and Association Professionals and Volunteers,” offers plenty of valuable ideas. Here are just a few that are featured:

• Prioritize learning and make learning a part of a normal routine. Constantly read, watch and listen. Publications, in-person and online education, webinars, podcasts and other learning platforms and technology tools are excellent resources for insight, trends, issues and challenges affecting the association field and can help individuals grow and develop as professionals.
• Create and review an annual Professional Development Learning Plan as part of your association’s annual goal-setting process. Engage supervisors in a discussion around the individual’s organizational development needs and gain agreement on a learning plan.
• Seek those who hold opposing viewpoints and engage in civil debate. Encourage them to explain and defend their position in order to better understand the varied ways that issues affect the community.

LEARN MORE. Read the full statement, including the section on professional practices for the governing body.