Professional Development Talk
In our recent Dev Talk session, we dove into how professional development and spiritual growth go hand in hand during your college journey. With some great speakers leading the way, we explored how ProDev is more than just a job—it can be a space for personal and spiritual growth. We talked about staying grounded in integrity, like with phone use at work, to facing the challenges of ministry in tough situations. The goal? To help you understand better the expectations in our Professional Development Program and grow spiritually, becoming globally aware, and ready to succeed in your future career while living out your faith.
In this blog, three professionals share their valuable insights on the unique aspects of the Professional Development program, offering a deeper understanding of its impact and effectiveness.
3 Ways ProDev is NOT a Job (or Work-Study)
- Zach Hartnell
Zach Hartnell, one of the speakers, articulated that ProDev should not be viewed through the lens of traditional employment. He emphasized that it is not fundamentally transactive, meaning it is not just about the exchange of labor for pay. Instead, ProDev aims to transform students' perspectives on work and their roles within it.
For example, Zach mentioned that many students enter the workforce with a transactional mindset, where they clock in and out, focusing solely on their output. However, ProDev encourages students to view their roles as opportunities for personal and professional transformation. This perspective shift allows students to engage more meaningfully with their work and the people around them.
Zach also highlighted that ProDev is not a "McJob," a term used to describe low-level, disposable jobs that lack value. Instead, ProDev offers students a chance to engage in meaningful work that contributes to their growth and the community. He pointed out that students have access to mentors and resources that help them navigate their professional journeys, making the experience far richer than typical work-study roles.
Transactional vs. Transformation
1. More Than a Job
ProDev isn’t just a job or work-study but a deeply transformative experiential journey.
2. ProDev is not a traditional work study program.
ProDev has paycheck and scholarship combined. The program gives a personal paycheck along with contributing to your tuition through scholarship.
3. ProDev is Not Your McJob
It focuses on holistic growth with personal and professional development, encouraging participants to see employment as an opportunity for growth, contribution, and deeper purpose in their work.
Conclusion:
ProDev goes beyond being just a job, offering a transformative experience that emphasizes both personal and professional growth. Unlike traditional work-study programs, it combines a paycheck with a scholarship, making it a unique opportunity for meaningful work and tuition support.
Now you know what to say when someone asks, “What is ProDev?” ;)
4 Problems with Phone Use in the Workplace
- Laurie Kagay
Professor Kagay addressed the pervasive issue of phone use in the workplace, outlining several problems associated with it. One of the most striking statistics she shared was that Americans touch their phones an average of 2,617 times a day. This constant interaction can lead to distractions that compromise focus and productivity.
For instance, she explained that every time an employee checks their phone, it can take up to 30 minutes to regain their original focus on the task at hand. This not only affects individual performance but can also impact team dynamics and overall workplace efficiency.
Moreover, Professor Kagay pointed out the safety risks associated with phone use, particularly in environments where employees are responsible for the well-being of others, such as childcare or food service. She emphasized that phones are often dirtier than toilet seats, which raises hygiene concerns in food-related jobs.
To combat these issues, she suggested practical solutions like batching notifications and implementing focus modes on phones. By taking control of their phone use, employees can enhance their productivity and maintain a professional demeanor in the workplace.
1. Time Theft
Phone usage in the workplace often steals time by distracting employees from tasks, as quick glances at notifications can lead to extended periods of scrolling or responding to non-urgent messages. This not only reduces productivity by pulling focus away from priorities but also disrupts the flow of deep work, making it harder to regain momentum. Over time, constant interruptions can diminish overall efficiency and create a work environment where focus and time management are consistently compromised.
2. Safety Risks
Phone usage in the workplace can contribute to distractions that compromise safety and health by spreading germs, particularly in shared spaces or environments where hygiene is critical. Phones often harbor bacteria and viruses, and handling them frequently can transfer these pathogens to hands, surfaces, or even directly to the face. This increases the risk of illnesses, especially in environments like healthcare or food preparation, where cross-contamination can have serious consequences for both workers and those they serve.
3. Damaged Relationships
Excessive phone usage in the workplace can strain interpersonal connections by creating barriers to open communication and collaboration. When employees are absorbed in their devices, it can lead to missed opportunities for meaningful interactions, teamwork, and building rapport with colleagues. Over time, this overuse creates a culture of disengagement, where relationships and trust suffer, ultimately affecting overall workplace morale and cohesion.
4. Personal Stress
Excessive phone notifications in the workplace can create a constant sense of urgency, leaving employees feeling overwhelmed and stressed. The frequent interruptions not only disrupt focus but also trigger a cycle of multitasking, which can lead to mental fatigue and decreased efficiency. Over time, this relentless stream of alerts contributes to burnout, reducing overall well-being and making it harder for employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Solutions:
Set clear phone-use boundaries, batch notifications, and use focus modes to minimize interruptions.
5 Ways to Succeed Through Ministry Environment
- Jeffrey Sherrod
Mr. Sherrod shared his insights on navigating challenging ministry environments, emphasizing that good ministry is fundamentally about people. He encouraged students to take charge of their roles, citing Joshua 1:9, which calls for strength and courage in the face of challenges.
“I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
- Joshua 1:9
He stressed the importance of setting clear expectations and rules within ministry programs. For example, he recounted a situation where he had to dismiss a student from a program due to behavioral issues. Instead of viewing this as a punitive action, he framed it as a necessary step to uphold the integrity of the program and ensure that all participants could benefit from it.
Mr. Sherrod also highlighted the significance of setting a positive tone in ministry settings. He shared an example of how Rob Munoz, a past Academy for GOD teacher, transformed mundane announcements into engaging productions, which set a lively atmosphere for the entire event. This approach not only captured the audience's attention but also fostered a sense of community and excitement.
Lastly, he emphasized the need for discernment in ministry work. He encouraged students to notice the quieter individuals who may need support, rather than only focusing on the loudest voices. By being observant and proactive, students can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone involved.
1. You Are in Charge
Proactive leadership in ministry environments involves setting clear rules and expectations to foster a supportive and uplifting atmosphere. By taking charge, leaders provide structure that encourages respect, collaboration, and alignment with shared values, helping everyone feel more engaged and purposeful. Establishing these guidelines upfront not only minimizes confusion and conflict but also creates a foundation where individuals can thrive spiritually, emotionally, and relationally.
2. You Set the Tone
Lead by Example: Your attitude sets the tone—stay positive and approachable. In ministry environments, leadership not only sets the tone through positivity but also by upholding expectations through their actions. When leaders model the behaviors, values, and standards they expect from others, it reinforces a culture of integrity and accountability. By consistently demonstrating commitment, respect, and dedication, leaders inspire those around them to follow suit, creating an environment where everyone is aligned in their purpose and mission.
3. You Notice
In ministry environments, staying observant allows leaders to discern the needs of individuals or the group, enabling them to offer support before small issues turn into larger problems. By actively listening and being aware of subtle signs of stress or conflict, leaders can address concerns early, fostering a proactive and nurturing atmosphere. This attentiveness not only prevents potential escalation but also builds trust, as people feel seen, heard, and cared for within the community.
4. You Pray
In ministry environments, regular prayer serves as a powerful source of guidance, helping leaders and teams stay aligned with their mission and values. It also provides strength and emotional support during challenging moments, fostering resilience and a deeper connection to the divine purpose in their work..
5. You Bring You
In ministry environments, leveraging your unique gifts allows you to contribute meaningfully while also recognizing and celebrating the diverse talents within your team. By valuing each individual’s strengths and fostering an environment of collaboration, you create a dynamic and harmonious team that is better equipped to serve and achieve the ministry's goals.
The Professional Development program is a unique experience and a great opportunity to learn and practice skills for personal and professional needs. This overview aims to clarify the ProDev program and its emphasis on growth, purpose, and meaningful work. It highlights how ProDev offers more than just a job, creating opportunities for personal and professional development. Happy ProDev-ing!