Tip of the Week: Create a Professional Development Policy

Laila Brenner

In Chapter 4 of Nonprofit Management 101, “Taking Charge of Your Nonprofit Sector Career,” Kimberly Hendler and Shelly Cryer note that professional development plays a critical role in maximizing your effectiveness as a social sector leader.

Leaders should constantly be developing themselves, their skills, and their knowledge. Organizations can play a critical role in this process by ensuring that professional development is a serious part of the culture and practices.

Create a professional development policy that encourages and allows for employees to do things like assume additional responsibilities outside of their departments or functional areas, pursue volunteer and ongoing education opportunities, and join leadership development or peer support groups. Be specific about what professional development resources benefits you offer.

By putting this policy in your employee or human resources policy handbook, you are not only demonstrating that your organization values its employees, but are also increasing your chances of recruiting and retaining quality staff.

Still not sure where to start? Check out what other organizations have put together. Read more and discover related resources in Chapter 4 of Nonprofit Management 101.