Forty things I've learned over four decades [slides]

National Library and Information Technicians' Symposium, 13-15 November 2019 Melbourne: Discover, Diversify, Dive In
 
This presentation (PowerPoint slides) accompanied the lightning talk on a 40 year library and information career in the South Australian public library sector.
 
Session description: This talk will present a lighthearted, lighthouse perspective on a career spanning nearly four decades in the South Australian Public Library sector – yes, I was very young when I started! From humble beginnings as a library assistant, through studies and career moves, I will describe how “getting a break” and “having a go” has created opportunities for career advancement in an era of vast technological change.
 
There are ingredients in the mix of a successful career, and I will discuss what some of these are and how they have been instrumental in my success. Positive and supportive leadership, exceptional mentors, keeping skills current and being prepared to speak up or ask questions to gain greater understanding of any subject under discussion. Putting your hand up for any training, being the one in the organisation that “knows about stuff” gives you an advantage. If someone needs help, be the one that is “happy to help” even when you are not sure that you can resolve the issue. This has worked for me in two ways, I’ve developed a reputation for being helpful and I’ve learned how to resolve issues – even when I’ve had to resort to the “turn it off and on again” approach.