Human Resources Q&A: Is training the right solution? Part Three

Part 1 of this series gives definition to training and development. While these terms are often used interchangeably, the two are actually distinct in purpose. Training builds capacity to perform the current job while development builds capacity for a future...

Human Resources Q&A: Is training the right solution? Part Two

The first part of this series gives definition to training and development. While these terms are often used interchangeably, the two are actually distinct in purpose. Training builds capacity to perform the current job, while development builds capacity for a...

Human Resources Q&A: Is training the right solution?

Sometimes yes and sometimes no! Just the other day, a colleague reached out in search of a management course for one of her managers who is struggling to create and maintain an encouraging environment for direct reports. I suggested that...

Investing in talent: How and why foundations are supporting professional development

Anyone who knows anything about the nonprofit sector knows that nonprofits attract passionate, committed, caring people – but that those people must operate on a shoestring budget, where needs perpetually exceed resources. This “nonprofit starvation cycle” is described by the...

Sparking innovation in your organization with professional development

In early March, my executive director invited my colleagues and I to take part in our organization’s first ever professional development day. Each staff member was to follow a day-long program of their own design made up of any task...

A gradual impact: Inspiring tomorrow’s leaders through higher education

As the mission-driven sector in Canada continues to grow, so does the need for young innovators and leaders who can confidently carry it forward. Stepping up to fill what has become a prominent educational gap in a country that prides...

Professional development: Not just for the big wigs

Whether in person, online, via the web or a myriad of hybrid varieties, professional development (PD) is becoming a call to action for many. No longer reserved for the deep pockets and the "big wigs", plenty of mid- and small-sized...

Self-renewal within the nonprofit sector

When entering the nonprofit sector, people often find themselves drawn to organizations that align with their values. They feel energized by their passion for the cause and, over time, they develop their career and contribute to the mission of the...

Executive coaching: Another tool in the toolbox?

During Virginia Edelstein's annual review last year, it was decided that for the purpose of her professional development, she would work at identifying her next steps. Project director at Volunteer Vancouver, Edelstein had grown a bit restless recently. Discerning more...

Aligning employees’ development goals with business needs

As a new year begins and we return to a more “normal” schedule, thoughts of new beginnings may give employees renewed motivation and focus on achieving personal or professional goals. To accomplish this, they may consider taking night school classes,...