SMPS-NY New Jersey Affiliate Knowledge Exchange: Professional Development Plans
Posted on Sep. 30, 2026 / Event Recap / Subscribe 0
On September 24th, SMPS-NY’s New Jersey Affiliate hosted its September Knowledge Exchange event at Dewberry's Parsippany office. The topic: Professional Development Plans. Attendees enjoyed light bites and refreshments while connecting with fellow industry colleagues before a panel discussion on how to make the most of one’s professional development plans. The discussion was moderated by Monica Griffith, Senior Associate and Marketing Director at Gensler, with panelists Kimberly Graham, CPSM, Director of Marketing at RSC Architects and Jen Mannino, Assistant Vice President - Marketing at LAN Associates.
Below are a few of the main takeaways that both employees and managers can implement to develop a successful professional development plan (PDP).
Tips for Employees:
1. Keep Receipts - Throughout the year, track the feedback that you receive from coworkers, managers, and other colleagues.
2. Keep a List - Maintain a record of your wins and accomplishments throughout the year. Come prepared to your PDP meeting with facts on how you helped the company.
3. Growth is More than a Promotion - While promotions can be a great way to grow, a successful PDP goes beyond your job title. It should outline your individual goals for growth and improvement. At the same time, do not be afraid to ask for a promotion or increase in responsibility if earned.
4. Use Your Community - Use resources (like those from SMPS) to help you identify your current strengths, as well as areas for growth. Also reach out to the SMPS network to see how others overcame challenges.
5. A Living Document - Your PDP is not something that you should visit once a year when it is time for a review. It should evolve throughout the year as your responsibilities change. Revisit your plan at least once a quarter, and do not be afraid to set up meetings with your manager if needed.
Tips for Managers
1. Honesty Goes Both Ways - While it is important to be honest with your employees, you also need to be honest with yourself. Be receptive to feedback on areas that you can improve or better support your employees. Encourage your employees to be honest (while still maintaining professionalism).
2. Be Prepared - Similar to the employee, come prepared to the PDP discussion. Identify specific ways that you can help your employees meet their goals. After the PDP review is over, follow through on your promises.
3. Create a Culture of Feedback – Just as it is important for the employee to treat the PDP as a living document, the manager also must be receptive to that. Make sure you keep time throughout the year to check in on your employees’ progress and determine how they can meet their goals.
Thank you to our moderator and two panelists for sharing their expertise. A special thank you to LAN Associates and Costanera Creative for sponsoring the event and to Dewberry for graciously hosting our New Jersey Affiliate and providing a welcoming space for industry professionals to connect.
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We hope to see you at our next SMPS-NY New Jersey Affiliate Knowledge Exchange!
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