10 Strategies to Grow Your PLN
During our latest #NAESPchat, leaders in education discussed building a professional network in-person and virtually. Here are their tips.
During the pandemic, how have you found ways to build your professional learning networks virtually?
A2 Engaging in Twitter chats, webinars and panels. Stepping off zoom to FaceTime adds a personal touch and is meaningful with my close network. #naespchat https://t.co/YdHxcbSWWM
— Kimbrelle Lewis (@k2blewis) June 10, 2021
A2: By signing up for sooo many webinars/conferences! I should've kept track of how many cities I visited from the comfort of my home & office 😄 I appreciate all of the virtual opportunities that were available. #NAESPchat
— Dr. Parker (@Dr_TParker) June 10, 2021
A2: I’ve tried to network with special educators because there is so much to navigate in a virtual/hybrid setting from a leadership standpoint #NAESPchat
— Todd Stanzione (@toddstanzione) June 10, 2021
What advice would you give to new principals who want to grow their networks and get the most out of it?
A4. My advice to a new leader is to find a vertical and horizontal mentor. Verticals are those who are vets and can give you wisdom and exhibit patience. Horizontals are those like you who are new; yet have a fresh, different "new" experience. You need both! #NAESPchat
— Kevin Armstrong, Ed.D (@DrKDArmstrong) June 10, 2021
A4: Don’t be intimidated. Everyone, no matter how many years they have been in the position has something valuable to share. Also, don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and reach out to someone that maybe you see on Twitter or in another PLN. #NAESPchat https://t.co/J5YaD0Qqld
— Melissa T Reams (@MelissaTReams) June 10, 2021
A4-Attend, participates, and connect with your state organization and then a must would be to be involved with @NAESP and attend the Annual National Conference. It will have truly have a positive impact on your career. #NAESPchat pic.twitter.com/mYdRHZWgXn
— J. Kapuchuck (@PrincipalKap) June 10, 2021
A3: It's 👏 ok 👏 to 👏 ask 👏 for 👏 help! Leaned on my colleagues so much this year. No way we get through this except together! #naespchat
— Dr. Andy Jacks (@_AndyJacks) June 10, 2021
What about in-person events like NAESP’s annual conference? What’s your advice for ensuring you leave these events with a strong network?
A5: Strike up conversations with new people. Talk to those around you in break out sessions. Go to sessions that interest you and not ones just because colleagues are going to them. Go solo even and then you have to. #NAESPchat
— John Wawczak (@MrWawczak) June 10, 2021
A5: BE vulnerable. Be you. Explore. Bring business cards. Have Twitter hashtags. Do everything!!!!! #NAESPchat let it come naturally. https://t.co/lkANH8zdAU
— AP Korth (@AP_Korth) June 10, 2021
A5. For those who are introverts like me, be an extrovert for the days of the conference. Network, ask questions, try new things, attend sessions you know nothing about. Step out of your comfort zone and grow in unique ways while in Chicago. #NAESPchat
— Kevin Armstrong, Ed.D (@DrKDArmstrong) June 10, 2021
Want to read more tips and takeaways from the chat? Check out #NAESPchat on Twitter.
Copyright © 2021. National Association of Elementary School Principals. No part of the articles in NAESP magazines, newsletters, or website may be reproduced in any medium without the permission of the National Association of Elementary School Principals. For more information, view NAESP’s reprint policy.
Advertisement
