What are the most effective ways to stay up-to-date with trends in human services?

1 Join professional associations

One of the best ways to stay connected and informed about trends in human services is to join a professional association that represents your area of expertise or interest. Professional associations offer many benefits, such as access to journals, newsletters, webinars, conferences, workshops, and networking opportunities. They also provide advocacy, support, and recognition for human services professionals. Some examples of professional associations in human services are the National Organization for Human Services, the American Public Human Services Association, and the Council for Standards in Human Service Education.

2 Follow thought leaders

Another way to stay up-to-date with trends in human services is to follow thought leaders who are experts, innovators, or influencers in your field. Thought leaders can provide valuable insights, perspectives, and advice on current and emerging issues, challenges, and opportunities in human services. You can follow thought leaders on social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook, or subscribe to their blogs, podcasts, or newsletters. Some examples of thought leaders in human services are Dr. Brené Brown, Dr. Bruce Perry, and Dr. Nadine Burke Harris.

3 Participate in online courses

A third way to stay up-to-date with trends in human services is to participate in online courses that can enhance your knowledge and skills in your field. Online courses are convenient, flexible, and affordable options for professional development and continuing education. You can choose from a variety of topics, formats, and levels of difficulty, depending on your needs and goals. You can also earn certificates or credits that can boost your resume and credentials. Some examples of online platforms that offer courses in human services are Coursera, edX, and Udemy.

4 Read industry publications

A fourth way to stay up-to-date with trends in human services is to read industry publications that can keep you informed and inspired by the latest research, news, and stories in your field. Industry publications can help you stay on top of the best practices, policies, and innovations in human services. They can also expose you to diverse perspectives and experiences from other human services professionals. Some examples of industry publications in human services are The New Social Worker, Human Service Today, and Social Work Today.

5 Collaborate with peers

A fifth way to stay up-to-date with trends in human services is to collaborate with peers who share your passion and vision for your field. Collaborating with peers can help you learn from each other, exchange ideas, share resources, and support each other. You can collaborate with peers in various ways, such as joining online communities, forums, or groups, attending local or regional events or meetups, or forming or joining a mentorship or coaching program. Some examples of online communities for human services professionals are the Human Services Network, the Human Services Learning Community, and the Human Services Forum.

6 Seek feedback from clients

A sixth way to stay up-to-date with trends in human services is to seek feedback from clients who are the ultimate beneficiaries of your work. Seeking feedback from clients can help you understand their needs, preferences, and satisfaction with your services. It can also help you identify areas of improvement, innovation, or collaboration in your field. You can seek feedback from clients in various ways, such as conducting surveys, interviews, or focus groups, using online tools, such as SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, or Typeform, or creating or joining a client advisory board or committee.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?