One of the most important ways to further any career is to seek professional development. Professional development means you have the competitive advantage. You’re improving your skills. You’re improving your knowledge. And often you’re improving your credibility as a writer.
That means more money. It also means you may gain more job satisfaction and pride. Finally, professional development helps eliminate burnout. When you’re learning new skills and information, being a writer can be an exciting and interesting career. The more passionate you are about your job, the easier it is to be successful.
If you’re a writer there are a number of ways to improve professionally. Here are five Professional Development Tips and Ideas.
#1 Take an online course.
Whether you write blog posts or direct mail sales copy there are online courses available. Many of these courses are created and taught by the best in the industry. Taking an online course has the advantage of being easy to fit in a busy schedule. Additionally, you’re able to learn from experienced professionals.
Consider taking a course in your niche industry too. In addition to taking writing courses, check out other industry related courses. For example, if you’re a health writer then consider taking a course on nutrition or personal training. You’ll learn a lot about your niche and you may meet potential clients.
#2 Attend seminars and workshops.
Seminars and workshops are often crash courses in a specific topic. For example, you might attend a weekend copywriting boot camp. It’s a great way to brush up on old skills and learn new ways of doing things. They’re also good networking opportunities.
#3 Attend a conference.
Conferences are a good way to glean a lot of information. They can be overwhelming because there’s often too much information. However, if you attend one good industry conference a year it can be enough information to last until the next one comes around. Make a list of the top conferences in your industry or specialty. Compare them. Look at cost, guest speakers, and the available information. Try to attend at least one conference a year.
#4 Read books.
Don’t forget about home study courses and books. Industry experts are constantly publishing new "how to" books. Consider committing yourself to reading one how to book each quarter. That’s only four books a year. Chances are you’ll come away with some truly valuable knowledge.
#5 Subscribe to industry blogs and publications.
Last, but certainly not least, make sure you subscribe to your industry’s top publications. Subscribe to blogs that help you stay fresh. Subscribe to your industry’s publications. For example, if you’re a technology writer then you may subscribe to Wired or PC Magazine.
Strive to improve your writing skills. Pay attention to industry trends. Make sure you’re in the loop so you know what your clients want and need – before they do. Professional development opportunities are all around you. Stay on top of your field and your skills to further your writing career.
Are you ready to move on to the next step?
Have you done something to IMPROVE yourself as a professional writer?
If you answered YES, then proceed to PART 8: Sell PLR
