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NACI intends to serve as an enabler, facilitator through the Professional Development Program. This program is designed to improve professional acumen and help with career advancement. NACI’s Professional Development program also aims to expose its members to new ideas, solidify their knowledge, and increase their expertise in their field.

 

What is Professional Development?

Professional development refers to continuing education and career training after a person has entered the workforce in order to help them develop new skills, stay up-to-date on current trends, and advance their career.

 

The Importance of Professional Development

Many fields require professionals to participate in continuing education and ongoing learning, sometimes as a prerequisite for keeping their job or to maintain their license, designation, or certification. The truth is, many people are not investing in their career development. One-third of employees say they do nothing to upgrade or improve their current skill set. These people are not too worried about their future career. Many may be good at their jobs, too, but they are either content where they are at or just are not worried about their professional future.

This means by taking advantage of professional development, continued education, and planning for your career, you already have a leg up on a third of your peers. Because you are going for it and taking ownership of your career, you are much more likely to achieve success and meet your goals.

 

The Benefits of Professional Development

1. Professional development expands your knowledge base.

2. Professional development boosts confidence and credibility.

3. Professional development increases earning potential and hireability.

4. Professional development can provide networking opportunities.

5. Professional development keeps professionals current on industry trends.

6. Professional development can open the door to future career changes.

 

How can NACI help its members improve their Professional Development?

 

1. Develop an IDP (Individual Development Plan) which will help NACI’s members understand their strengths and areas for improvement. The plan will include clear, actionable steps that help NACI members work on their professional development. Below are the components of IDP:

· Professional goals and aspirations;

· Strengths and talents;

· Development Opportunities;

· Action Plan;

 

2. Professional Seminars, (Please note that NACI will finance the professional seminar: lodging and meal as well as transportation and any fees associated with the seminar). A study by HBR highlighted that “Attending conferences, summits, workshops, and seminars have positive impacts on professionals”. Why? Because:

· They offer opportunities to develop new professional relationships;

· Meet new friends (Network opportunities);

· Gain knowledge and become more successful in one career;

· Gaining inspirations;

 

3. Guest Speakers (from time to time, NACI will host guest speakers who will provide some perspective on a specific topic relevant to NACI’s members professional development).

 

4. Book clubs as part of NACI’s professional development aim to encourage critical thinking and deeper engagement with stories.

 

If you’d like to learn more about this program, please contact us!

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