Here's how you can stay up-to-date with the latest trends in continuing education for non-profit managers.

The first step is to identify associations and organizations that are key stakeholders in your field, and to connect with the people who work for them and play a key role in these organizations. By doing this, you will be able to keep up-to-date on events held and will be able to network with them directly. In cases where they organize an event, it is very likely that they will attend. This, in my humble opinion, is the easiest and most direct way to find out about networking events.

Enough has been said about networking in your community. I recommend deliberately seeking out networking events OUTSIDE your community. Find people who share the same needs, but live in different parts of the world, or live nearby but have a vastly different perspective. Too much of the nonprofit world is just an echo chamber of the same people jabbing on and on about the same tired ideas. Get out of the fancy galas and go network with Peace Corps and Americorps Vista volunteers for real energy and passion. Go find the local mutual aid activists and afterschool tutors who are working hard and not even receiving grant money. You'll learn more from them than you will from any paid consultant.

Strong connections are the lifeblood of any successful organization, and nonprofits are no exception. Networking events offer a unique space for nonprofits to build valuable relationships that can significantly benefit their cause.

NYU's Wagner School of Public Service Alumni network is an excellent example of how nonprofit managers can utilize university alumni networks to stay informed and connected with industry trends and educational opportunities. Alumni events foster an environment for developing long-term professional relationships. By regularly participating in NYU Wagner's alumni events, nonprofit managers can build a network of peers equally committed to public service, creating collaboration and mutual support opportunities. By actively participating in these Alumni networks, nonprofit managers stay updated on continuing education and gain the added advantage of a supportive community that enhances their professional and personal growth.

Online courses provide an opportunity for nonprofit managers to stay current with industry practices while balancing their professional duties. Many universities offer courses to enhance skills crucial for nonprofit management. Among these is the NYU Fundraising Certificate Program, specifically designed for individuals in fundraising and nonprofit management roles. NYU offers a comprehensive curriculum allowing participants to gain a robust understanding of the diverse aspects of the nonprofit sector. The fundraising/nonprofit management program is beneficial for its practical application of knowledge—courses are designed to impart actionable strategies that managers can immediately implement in their organizations to drive success.

Si les formations en ligne apportent de la flexibilité, elles doivent inclure un temps d'interaction avec le formateur. C'est ce que je propose au travers de mes différents programmes d'accompagnement en ligne, que ce soit avant, pendant ou en post formation pour accompagner l'apprentissage

Here are some resources that I use to keep informed about the latest trends & best practices: Nonprofit Quarterly (NPQ): NPQ covers various topics pertinent to nonprofit management, from philanthropy to policy. The Chronicle of Philanthropy: Offers specialized articles, timely reports, & expert advice tailored to enhance organizational management, fundraising, and governance. Nonprofit Times: Offers practical advice on various topics, including management & finance, & it assists nonprofit leaders in enhancing operational efficiency & strategic planning. Harvard Business Review: HBR's articles on leadership, strategy, & organizational behavior are incredibly relevant & can provide valuable strategies applicable in the nonprofit context.

Social media groups are a treasure trove for excellent sources of information, networking, and peer support for nonprofits; the red flag here is that diligence is needed to ensure information is relevant and accurate. These nonprofit-focused groups are found on the usual suspects, such as LinkedIn and Facebook, where you can join discussions on the sector's current issues and best practices and find free resources shared by fellow professionals. Engage by discussing your work, asking questions, sharing experiences, and offering opinions on trending topics. Don't be a wallflower; active participation helps nonprofit professionals stay informed and improve practices through shared knowledge and support.

Joining social media groups on platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook dedicated to non-profit management is an excellent way to stay updated. These groups offer a wealth of information through discussions on current issues, advice on best practices, and access to free resources from fellow professionals. Engage actively by asking questions, sharing experiences, and monitoring trending topics. Additionally, participate in webinars and workshops hosted within these groups to tackle specific challenges and learn about the latest advancements, enhancing both your knowledge and professional network.

Mentorship programs can be beneficial for nonprofit managers committed to professional growth. 1. Find the Right Mentor: Use your social media & alumni network to find a program that aligns with your values. 2. Engage Actively: Once you've established a mentorship relationship, actively participate. 3. Explore Educational Opportunities: A seasoned mentor can recommend specialized courses that might be off your radar. 4. Implement Advice: Apply the insights from your mentor to your professional life. 5. Give Back: As you grow in your career, consider becoming a mentor to others. Integrating mentorship into your development can enhance your skills, expand your network, and provide insights crucial for navigating the sector's complexities.

Here’s how you can integrate new knowledge into your current practices: 1.Evaluate Current Practices: Evaluate how new strategies could improve existing systems. 2.Leverage Your Professional Development: Reflect on these courses to identify specific tools or frameworks that could be introduced to your current role. 3.Implement Change: Start small by implementing changes that address immediate needs or opportunities within your organization. 4.Share Knowledge: Share what you learn with your team and peers. 5.Monitor and Adjust: Set benchmarks for your implemented changes and regularly review their impact. 6.Feedback Loop: Engage stakeholders by sharing how new practices improve the organization’s operations and ask for their feedback.

Tips to Maximize Networking at Events: Prepare an elevator pitch: A concise and compelling explanation of your organization's mission and impact. Be engaging and approachable: Strike up conversations and actively listen to others. Exchange business cards and follow up: Strengthen connections after the event. Offer value: Share your expertise and insights with others.

Wednesday’s May 1, 2024. 07:20 From: Dr. Richard Francis Viktor Hogan Staying up-to-date with the latest trends in continuing education for non-profit managers is crucial for effective leadership and management. Here are some ways to keep abreast of these trends: • Follow Industry Experts and Thought Leaders: Engage with thought leaders in the non-profit sector through social media, blogs, and industry publications. Forbes Nonprofit Council, for example, offers insights from various leaders on emerging trends. • Professional Development Programs. • Continuing Education Courses. • Webinars and Online Training. • Networking and Online Conferences Research and Publications. • Consulting with Peers. N.B. Please read my “Post”.