There are an abundance of blogs, courses and certifications, books, and other media that are related to professional development. However, sometimes you come across a video or an article that stands out and inspires you more than any other. Maybe it’s something you go back to when you are at a crossroads in your career, or perhaps it's a piece you pass along to those you mentor. Whatever the resource may be that has impacted you, there is no doubt that these tools play a role in shaping us into the professionals we have become today.
Our team often shares resources and recommendations with one another to spark creativity and inspiration in our office. This week, we are sharing some of our favorites with you.
“When Simone Biles withdrew from Olympic gymnastics events last month, it spawned a lot of commentary on whether she was helping or hurting her team. It reminded me of The Boys in the Boat, the story of the 1936 U.S. Men’s Olympic rowing team. Through school and work, there are lots of opportunities to learn how to be part of a team, but few opportunities to learn how to put a team together. This book is not only a great read, but a wonderful illustration of why the best teams bring people together with diverse skills, experiences, and backgrounds.” - Cynthia McCafferty, President and CEO
“I’m reading Meditations, the personal journal of Marcus Aurelius, who was a Roman emperor and stoic philosopher. He endured many difficult times as a leader, including a years-long pandemic, complicated military campaigns, political upheaval, and personal strife. The big takeaway from his reflections is to assuage your anxieties by focusing on what is in your control and letting go of what is not. This is often easier said than done, but I find the mindset to be very beneficial in all areas of life—both personal and professional.” - Richard Ray, Senior Account Director
“I’d highly recommend the book, Writing Tools: 50 Essential Strategies for Every Writer. It has helped improve my writing by equipping me with tools and tactics to troubleshoot sentences. The tips in the book help me overcome writer's block and improve my writing overall, whether I’m writing a sketch or a press release. I consider it a must read for any writer.” - Dan Kowalski, Senior Account Manager
“Over the past year, I have become an avid podcast listener. One industry-related podcast that I have come to really appreciate is The Spin Sucks Podcast hosted by Gini Dietrich. Covering a variety of topics that impact professionals in PR, Marketing, and Communications, I have been able to expand my knowledge around traditional PR tactics while also learning more about how these industries are blending together.” - Jennifer Wright, Account Executive
“I recently watched a TEDx Talk about strategic communications that really drives home the impact that strategic communications has across industries and objectives. In her talk, “It's Not Manipulation, It's Strategic Communication,” Keisha Brewer presents the elements of effective strategic communications in both personal and professional situations. Brewer is able to boil down important strategies we use every day into a 10-minute talk that reminds us all of the importance of PR and communications.” - Emma Amorose, Account Executive
At Hawthorne, we always strive to learn more, broaden our perspectives, and innovate the way we show up to work each day. We hope this list provides some fresh inspiration for you in your professional journey.