Speak Out April 2021

What's next in your career Early career members have all completed a rigorous speech pathology degree and most have started off in their new profession. In time, many naturally turn their attention to “what’s next” and begin to think about career advancement. Career progression often involves taking on new roles such as offering supervision or mentoring, taking management positions in the workplace, or starting a private practice. Most changes in role, context or responsibility require new learning and skills development, and it is important to pace new challenges during this time. Irrespective of time in the profession, speech pathologists who are eligible for certified practising membership status must meet the minimum standards regarding their knowledge, skills and attributes as relevant to their context and role (see Professional Standards for Speech Pathologists in Australia (2020). Getting to know the Professional Standards is a really important first step. Reflective practice and lifelong learning (Domain 2) is integral to developing knowledge and informing practice. This process can be supported through regular engagement in supervision and mentoring. The Association views this as particularly important for speech pathologists who have recently entered the profession, and are navigating a lot of 'firsts'. As members gain confidence in their knowledge and skills, many consider exploring new opportunities. Speech Pathology Australia has developed recommendations and resources to help early career members successfully navigate the first years of clinical practice, as well as thinking about career advancement opportunities. Members are reminded to carefully and realistically evaluate if they require additional skills, training, supervision or support if they change roles or take on new responsibilities, to ensure they are competent to provide the required speech pathology services. Some resources that may be helpful for those interested in taking a "what's next" step, are listed below: Realise Business Course SPA has partnered with Realise Business to produce an 8-month, virtual learning and coaching program . This resource will help speech pathologists prepare to establish and grow a successful practice. The introductory session to this course was on 12 April but members can still enrol in this course. This is typically presented every year. Mentoring A mentor can support speech pathologists in preparing for a variety of roles, including the development of leadership skills, readiness to offer mentoring or supervision, or preparation for starting a business. SPA’s online search can help speech pathologists connect to mentors with experience in specific areas. Members can learn more about the Association’s mentoring program by accessing a webinar on SPA’s Learning Hub . Supervision courses The Association recommends that supervisors undertake a course in the provision of supervision. Although SPA does not currently offer its own course, it has identified various training programs that may be helpful to speech pathologists. Early Career members can identify their learning needs and assess different courses by becoming familiar with the Supervision Standards and referring to frameworks like the National Clinical Supervision Competency Resource. For other resources or questions, Early Career members can contact the Professional Sup- port Advisor at psa@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au.

Early Career REFERENCE GROUP

Nathan Cornish-Raley Professional Support Advisor psa@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

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Speak Out | April 2021