director of staff development

I am board certified in "Professional Nursing Development" thru ANCC. Try their website too. www.nursingworld.org

You need to be a member of NNSDO for sure. Very valuable resources.

Congratulations on your new position.

I would advise you to approach it with 'fresh eyes' and not just accept what has been put in place before you. Evaluate all that 'paperwork' with a critical eye to determine whether it is really necessary. I would bet that you can figure out a way to simplify all the transactional "stuff" in order to allocate more time on what is really important -- improving clinical care.

Career longevity in education is directly & positively correlated to one's value to the organization (speaking from experience). Always remember that your real customers are the Senior Leaders who 'buy' your services. Find out what is important to them and make it happen. Make sure you tie everything to organizational goals - sometimes it is a stretch, but we're a very creative bunch.

NNSDO certification is a great goal. But don't fall into the "I'm not worthy" trap because you don't have it yet. You were chosen for this position based on what you have to offer right now! Be confident -- educators are pretty brazen. Remember, if you are standing in front of the group controlling the PowerPoint -- everyone automatically assumes you are an expert.

Enjoy! Have fun!

I am trying to find a DSD course. All i could find was an online course which im a little leary to try. Where did you end up getting yours from? Thanks.

ANCC offers certification in nursing professional development. Being board certified impresses people who do not understand your job (sorry, but is true). The course preparation solidifies the scope and practice of the job. Buy a copy of the ANCC Scope and Practice when the new version comes out. I agree with HouTx. Make the job yours.