Social service workers want to do better for themselves and for the people they serve. Therefore, professional development is essential in order to work toward expected outcomes. In addition, many workers are motivated and excited by opportunities for personal as well as pro- fessional development. Consistent chances for individual capacity building can provide a rich and meaningful source of motivation, enthusiasm, focus, and cooperation for carrying out great work. Furthermore, personal and professional goals are another way of ensuring concrete and tangible progress in what I refer to as “a world of intangibles.” It isn’t surprising that many people from the social service industry fish, hunt, garden, or build something with their hands outside of work. They are desperate to see an end product or experience some type of accomplishment.
Personal and professional development frameworks, processes, and supports provide staff with a plethora of opportunities to connect to what is important to them while they carry out their work.