Professional Development Ideas

Professional development is a great way to help fulfill your career goals.  Graduate programs are what first comes to mind when you think about developing your career skills, but there are many different activities you can partake in to make you a more attractive candidate.

• Career workshops: These can be expensive, but they are a good option if you can afford them.  Some workshops can even give you certificates, so make sure to double-check before you sign up.
• Self-education books: Don't have the time or money to take a course or attend a workshop?  Purchase some books on nonprofit management.  It may not look as good on your resume, but it will improve your knowledge.
• Find a mentor: Find a professional to help guide you on your career path.  This can either be someone you know or a person you are introduced to via a networking contact.
• Start volunteering: Getting involved with volunteer work will look good to nonprofits, and it can help grow your professional network.  Doing something good for the community can also make you feel better for yourself when going through unemployment.

Getting involved with some form of professional development will help you stay fresh during down times and will avoid worrisome employment gaps in your resumé.  Showing that you were busy during unemployment will look much better on your resume than doing nothing.