Stay Aligned Through Learning
- Andrew Estep, CAE
- Nov 13
- 2 min read
Last week, we talked about building guardrails to protect your organization’s mission. This week, we look at some ways association professionals can strengthen their own guardrails through training that reinforces focus and alignment. Training provides focus and a clear set of tools to help professionals stay aligned with their organization’s purpose and mission.
One of the reasons I am grateful to be a Certified Association Executive (CAE) is that it pushes me to attend training regularly. But not everyone has the time or energy necessary to prepare for the exam. Fortunately, there are other ways for association professionals to deepen their knowledge and stay aligned with their organization’s purpose.
This series of 8 one-hour courses, offered by the Washington Society for Association Excellence, introduces the basics of association management. It is a great first step for those who are just starting out in this field or anyone looking to refresh the fundamentals.
ASAE’s Certificate Program in Association Management is an approachable series of classes that cover the core elements of association management. Its structure gives participants the opportunity to learn at their own pace at times that they find convenient. As a bonus, participants are awarded a certificate that they can share with others with pride.
For those who understand the work of association management but want to refocus, this WSAE course explores how to move from maintenance mode to strategic thinking. It can help restore your commitment to the organization’s values and purpose.
Lately, I have been rereading “one of the most impactful business books of the 20th century.” It laid the groundwork for my career in nonprofit management, and its messages still resonate. I will share some of my reflections on it next week.
