As a membership organisation, building communities across the career development profession is central to the purpose of the CDI.
These communities enable professionals to meet and network with colleagues, share learning, establish professional and personal support networks and provide feedback to the CDI.
There are a number of CDI communities, reflecting different areas of practice and interest, and representing the regions and nations of the UK. We encourage all CDI members to make the most of the opportunities offered by the communities, and we welcome non-members to many of the nations and regional meetings.
Nations and regional communities
The CDI’s nations and regional communities ensure the CDI is fully reflective of all areas of the UK. The CDI has regional representatives throughout England and associates for Scotland and Wales. We are working to develop a Northern Ireland community. These representatives and Associates develop their local membership groups, running regular meetings covering best practice, discussion of issues and peer support. Non-members are encouraged to attend the regional meetings to understand more about the benefits of the CDI.
Communities of Practice
These communities are moderated online forums where members can raise and answer questions, share items of interest and discuss key topics related to the community. There are two Communities of Practice, both of which are very active: the general Community for Career Development Professionals, and the Community for Career Leaders.
Communities of Interest
The CDI also hosts a larger number of specialist Communities of Interest that focus on specific areas of interest within careers information, advice, education and guidance. These groups are predominantly online and some have their own steering groups to co-ordinate the development of the community and inform future CDI services.
Diversity groups
To support the CDI’s ED&I Strategy, we are looking to develop ED&I working groups to discuss specific issues related to equality, diversity and inclusion in career development. This work will help inform and direct the CDI’s work in this area. We would be delighted to hear from anyone interested in helping establish and be part of these groups. Please contact david.morgan@thecdi.net for more information.
We Are Careers
Linked to the Career Development Practitioner Community of Practice, the #WeAreCareers live stream is a highly engaging way to hear from key players across career development and catch up on the latest CDI and sector news.