I’ve focused my postings lately on ACPA/NASPA Core Competencies and CAS Standards, but this posting has  different framework: relationships.

Today I had coffee with a colleague with whom I had very limited previous interaction. I thought he and I would have things in common: we attended the same conferences, worked in the same functional area, and emailed about different questions. I knew him from a listserv but sensed that he’d be a good person with whom to have a professional relationship.

I was right.

Engaging in a discussion with colleagues about different issues we face and how we’re going about addressing these issues is really stimulating for me (coffee helps too). I approach my conversations with colleagues as friendly, but it’s clear that while we’re building a relationship, we’re benefiting a lot from each other: we’re increasing our competence in student affairs work.

I believe professional relationships should be intentional: providing support as you build these connections and possibly a friendship. It would be a missed opportunity to not engage in “shop talk” as I create collegial friendships.

How do you approach relationships with colleagues as opportunities to develop your competence and confidence?