Do you want in on a secret not many take advantage of? In the grind of back-to-back meetings and full inboxes from 9 to 5 and balancing family demands after hours, professional development often takes a back seat. However, in today’s competitive career landscape, there are numerous reasons for government employees to invest in their professional development no matter where they fall on the career ladder.
Professional development can bring many things to mind — from attending conferences to joining associations and organizations. No matter which you take advantage of, it’ll help you stay current on trends, develop new skills, and stand out in a competitive field. And people want to learn — a recent large-scale study found that 68% believe employer-provided upskilling or professional development is crucial when considering a new job.
Continuous learning and skill enhancement are critical, especially now. Every job opening attracts many qualified candidates, so distinguishing yourself and having a robust network is imperative. Active membership in professional organizations like AFCEA and the American Council for Technology and Industry Advisory Council (ACT-IAC), includes access to workshops, seminars, and conferences, offering continuous learning and networking opportunities.
In a crowded government market, advanced skills and up-to-date knowledge set you apart from your peers. Attending sessions on topics like leading high-performing teams or integrating AI into your role allows you to expand your knowledge and share your insights with other attendees.
Additionally, the opportunity for external peer collaboration is invaluable. It provides a platform to seek advice, learn best practices, and understand lessons learned, helping you avoid unnecessary setbacks. Having a professional network is particularly beneficial in leadership roles or smaller organizations, offering another pair of eyes or a sounding board for ideas. You’d be surprised how often your name gets mentioned for opportunities – even in rooms you aren’t in – when you expand your network.
If you’re not currently actively involved in a professional organization, I encourage you to take the leap and find one that suits your specific role and career aspirations. If you’re a member, but not actively involved, mark your calendar for an upcoming event and make your participation a priority, or join a committee to support the organization and hold yourself accountable. The key is that you get out of it what you put into it!
Taking the time to invest in your own professional development – your career, your skills, and your network – will certainly provide value. By continuously honing your skills, expanding your knowledge, and building a robust network, you position yourself as a leader within government and can stand out from the crowd of those who aren’t involved.
Lexy Sheets is the Director of Marketing for Presidio Federal. She is responsible for leading brand growth and building awareness, strategic positioning of Presidio Federal in the B2B and B2G markets and creating frameworks and roadmaps that sync up strategy and operations.
Lexy brings experience in partner marketing, event marketing, and demand generation to her current role. She holds two bachelor’s degrees from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island – one in management and one in marketing. She resides in Southern Virginia with her husband and beloved rescue dog.
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