What resources or networks do you use for professional development?

1 Online courses and webinars

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to learn new skills and stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in the nonprofit sector is to take online courses and webinars. There are many platforms and organizations that offer free or low-cost courses and webinars on topics such as fundraising, governance, marketing, advocacy, and more. Some examples are Coursera, edX, Nonprofit Ready, and Philanthropy University. You can also find webinars hosted by nonprofit associations, foundations, and consultants on their websites or social media channels.

2 Mentoring and coaching

Another way to enhance your professional development is to seek mentoring and coaching from experienced and successful nonprofit leaders. Mentoring and coaching can help you gain valuable insights, feedback, advice, and guidance on your career goals, challenges, and opportunities. You can find mentors and coaches through formal programs offered by nonprofit associations, networks, or platforms, such as the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network, or Mentorloop. You can also reach out to potential mentors and coaches through your existing contacts, LinkedIn, or events.

3 Peer networks and communities

A third way to boost your professional development is to join and participate in peer networks and communities of nonprofit leaders who share your interests, values, and vision. Peer networks and communities can provide you with support, inspiration, collaboration, and learning opportunities. You can find peer networks and communities through online platforms and forums, such as Facebook groups, LinkedIn groups, Reddit, or Quora. You can also join local, regional, or national nonprofit associations, networks, or coalitions that organize events, workshops, and conferences.

4 Podcasts and blogs

A fourth way to enrich your professional development is to listen to podcasts and read blogs that cover relevant and timely topics and issues in the nonprofit sector. Podcasts and blogs can help you learn from the stories, experiences, and perspectives of other nonprofit leaders, experts, and influencers. You can also discover new ideas, resources, and trends that can benefit your organization and your career. Some examples of podcasts and blogs that you can follow are Nonprofit Hub, Nonprofit Jenni Show, Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, and Nonprofit AF.

5 Books and magazines

A fifth way to improve your professional development is to read books and magazines that offer in-depth and comprehensive knowledge and analysis of the nonprofit sector. Books and magazines can help you deepen your understanding of the history, theory, practice, and future of nonprofit leadership, management, and innovation. You can also find books and magazines that focus on specific aspects or subsectors of the nonprofit field, such as social entrepreneurship, philanthropy, advocacy, or impact measurement. Some examples of books and magazines that you can read are The Nonprofit Sector: A Research Handbook, Forces for Good: The Six Practices of High-Impact Nonprofits, Stanford Social Innovation Review, and The Chronicle of Philanthropy.

6 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?