What do you do if you're a social work leader wanting to stay current with research and best practices?

Within my team, fostering an environment of perpetual learning is a priority. We conduct frequent gatherings to deliberate on the latest research, exchange knowledge from conferences or workshops, and explore how these insights can be woven into our ongoing practices. I ensure to keep abreast with the latest by subscribing to significant journals within social work and adjacent disciplines. The concept of work-life balance is often a topic of discussion, yet I perceive my profession as an enduring voyage of enlightenment and service. The fusion of my work with continual education unfolds naturally, as my personal development intrinsically boosts my capacity to better serve our clients. This is what I strive to embody and promote at work.

The most important way to stay updated on research and best practices is to connect with a variety of resources, such as journals, newspapers, webinars, and conferences. Building connections with other professionals in your field is equally valuable. This comprehensive approach fosters growth and rapid learning. It allows you to share ideas, discuss problems, and find solutions collaboratively. Remember, the environment you create around yourself significantly impacts your professional development.

A social work leader committed to staying sharp should cultivate a "learning loop." This involves actively seeking out high-quality research journals, podcasts by thought leaders, and conferences focused on social work innovation. By critically evaluating this knowledge and sharing it with their team, they become a catalyst for continuous improvement within their organization.

As a social work leader seeking to stay current with research and best practices, utilizing online platforms like LinkedIn can be an effective strategy. Identify and follow organizations, academic institutions, thought leaders, and influencers in the field of social work on LinkedIn. Join LinkedIn groups dedicated to social work, social services, or specific areas of interest within the field. Following hashtags such as #SocialWork, #SocialServices, or #SocialWorkResearch. Actively engage with content shared by others on LinkedIn, including articles, blog posts, research studies, and opinion pieces related to social work. hare your own insights, experiences, and knowledge with your LinkedIn network.

I finished my MSW in 2012 and am currently transitioning to clinical work after years of macro practice. Many subjects and conversations have changed a great deal since then. Trauma and social justice come to mind as some prominent examples. Although it’s not required before licensure it’s been extremely helpful in getting me up to speed. Don’t forget to check out your employers reimbursement policy.