Benefits to being a member of the NMC

By Shannon Cox, Regional Coordinator, British Columbia and Yukon

Being a manager in the public service today is not easy. With economic restraint, a minority government, staffing challenges, and fewer resources, it takes all of your focus just to get the work done. Can you really take time out for a National Managers’ Community (NMC) meeting or learning event? Maybe, maybe not.

While you ponder this, consider why your peers are taking the time to get involved with the NMC. They have found out there are others grappling with the same complexities – such as program delivery, client services, and human resources management. This involvement deepens connections between managers and strengthens their support network. In fact, managers say that discussing perspectives with peers gives them more confidence to deal with those difficult issues when they arise.

At other times, managers just need a little inspiration from the NMC and find it in relevant professional development for little or no cost. At NMC Forums and other events, managers also have the opportunity to network with senior officials.

One benefit of becoming involved with NMC is learning about other organizations and what they are doing to innovate in the public service.

— Manager, Service Canada

NMC might be another thing to squeeze into your day, but for managers who do, the benefits of learning events, networking opportunities, peer support, sharing best practices, and the tales of inspiration are worth the squeeze.