UNYSLA: Spring meeting report part I: Librarian Career and Skill Building in this Economy

Rachel Singer Gordon: Librarian Career and Skill Building in this Economy
by Rachel Meier

Rachel Singer Gordon, creator and webmaster of LISjobs, opened the UNYSLA spring conference with her presentation “Librarian Career and Skill Building in this Economy.”

Rachel outlined strategies and ideas for information professionals to further build their careers and skill sets. While it would be impossible to pass on all of the information in her talk, I would like to highlight a few gems such as her twelve R’s, the discussion of continuing education, and being proactive in your career.

Rachel began with her twelve R’s of career and skill building: Refocus, Recognize (be proactive), Reinvest, Resume, Relocate, Resources, Reconnect, Ready, Rethink, Reframe, Resilience, and Realize.

Rachel Singer Gordon is the creator of LISjobs.com and the editor of Info Career Trends, a bimonthly professional development publication.

Rachel stressed the importance of asking yourself the right questions while managing your career and to periodically review your longer term goals to determine if they are goals you still value and want to work toward. Once you have checked in with your goals, the next step is to look at your current actions to ensure they are consistent with putting you on the right track to achieve your goals. Often, you may be on a track towards something you no longer want and value for the long term.

Librarians and information professionals must actively seek out opportunities and resources for continuing education opportunities and NOT to wait for your employer to take the initiative to develop you professionally – it may be a very long wait. Rachel emphasized the importance of being proactive in your career, avoiding dismissive or negative thoughts and being open to say yes when opportunities arise.

Rachel ended her talk by encouraging us to ask ourselves “What action can I do today to move me toward my long term goals?” and then to do that small action. Committing to small actions each day will move you toward your long term goals. Change usually doesn’t happen all at once over night. And lastly, let the outside recession be your precipitating event to make positive changes for yourself.

Do not be discouraged by cost!

There are many career development opportunities that are inexpensive and/or free! For example, Rachel recommends applying for conference scholarships, as many times there are not many applicants and those who do apply have good odds.

Free online continuing education resources include: