How do I Select the Best Option for Developing a Competency?

Formal classroom training isn’t the only option for developing a competency. Some cost effective ways of acquiring new knowledge, skills, and experiences are in the following list:

• Shadow a senior leader or someone in another directorate or office. Be sure to prepare a one-page paper outlining the shadow assignment goals, your learning objectives, and the competencies you are targeting and share this with the senior leader.
• Volunteering to serve on a special NBC work group/committee or a cross-functional work team.
• Research opportunities for online learning through DOI University or other training delivery venues.
• Join a professional or service organization such as Toastmasters.
• Establish a formal mentor/protégé relationship with someone you admire.
• Check out books, magazines, CD-ROM’s from the public library or other available sources.
• Attend the DOI Speaker forums.
• Register for the many courses and programs offered through DOI University. Some of the courses are no cost for DOI employees.