I wonder if there is a job out there that doesn't require ongoing development. Probibly not one I'd want to do for the rest of my life. I must stress what I believe to be the most important part of career development: networking. I have seen time and time again people who are able to better their position by getting to know the people who make important decisions--like who to hire/promote. If a prospective employer remembers you from when you introduced yourself at an important conference then he/she is going to know that you are someone committed to your work and improving your knowledge about your career.
My husband actually got a job offer with a pretty good company when he was working as a delivery driver because the guy he delivered to thought he always did a great job and wanted him on his staff. I hate to say it's not about what you know, but who you know...but it's a little of both.
That's one reason I'm hoping to take part in the graduate research conference. I'm nervous as *%^& about presenting, but mainly because it's something I've never done before. I used to be nervous when I first started teaching, too. Now I'm only nervous on the first day. But I do think it will be a good opportunity to interact with people I would not likely otherwise meet.
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It is true. You need to know what you are doing to keep a job and be good at it, but often to get the job you need to know those who are doing the hiring. It is human nature I think to hire someone one you know or who knows someone you know rather than an unknown stranger.
ReplyDeleteI think you have the nerves thing down exactly. I'm always nervous the first day, even if I've had all of my students before. It's a new chance and there are no mistakes yet. Have fun planning your presentation!
ReplyDeleteI think your nervous is reasonable, but I am sure that we can overcome the problems by enough effort.
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