By Cassie Van Gompel
You hear a lot about organizations’ strategic plans, missions, and visions. But do you have your own personal development plan?
Why is this important? There is a saying, “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” If you do not have a plan of how to reach the next level, you are selling short your future self. If you have decided you wish to advance in your career, hobby, or even start a new journey, you need to start gathering the skills and experiences necessary to make the next move. But how do you do that?
First, talk to others who have the job or position you are seeking. Ask them what steps they took to get to this position, what skills or experiences do they wish they had prior to taking on the position, what have they learned while in the position? Use this time to build the connection and learn from their experience.
Second, start to organize the timelines for different opportunities. Do your research to see when elections may be held, when trainings are offered, when applications open. Put these into your calendar to make sure you don’t miss any important deadlines. Also take care to determine if certain things need to take place prior to other events or opportunities.
Finally, execute on your plan. You did all this work for a reason, remind yourself frequently why this is important to you. Make sure to set aside time dedicated to your future just as your set aside time for your current tasks. Making a commitment to yourself is just as important, if not more important than your commitment to others.
How can JCI help with your personal development goal? JCI offers a great networking opportunity within and outside of your profession. You can use this opportunity to discuss development opportunities around the United States and the world. By networking outside of your profession, you can gain new insights and ideas of how to improve yourself and organization.
JCI also offers trainings which are included as a benefit to our members. JCI offers trainings online and in-person. These trainings cover a variety of topics from budgeting, marketing, and leadership development. Attending these trainings is a great way to show your interest in a topic without breaking the bank.
There are also opportunities for experiential learning. JCI hosts skills development competitions on the state, national, and international level. You have a chance to write a press release, practice impromptu speaking, or engage in structured debate. All while in a supportive environment with other competitors who are between eighteen and forty years old. As a member of JCI, you can also run your own events or projects, where you can see tangible results from your leadership journey. Learn how to apply the skills you learned in training to real world problems and create positive change in your community. These opportunities are great things to add to your resume and make you stand out from the crowd in interviews.
So consider joining JCI as part of your personal leadership development plan. Attend a local meeting to learn more about why JCI is the foremost global network of young leaders who are dedicated to creating positive change.