“My ICMA and NJMMA memberships provide the greatest value through the many opportunities to meet and talk with top-notch professional managers who share my passion for good government. I can’t think of a conference that I did not leave without renewed enthusiasm and dedication for the work we do."

In this issue of Career Compass, Dr. Benest rolls out a plan for making sure your meetings are a success.

We asked our Members to share times when they've freaked out the rest of the room.

A brief case study of Crow Wing County's Pay for Performance initiative

Inspired by mentors to become more involved in ICMA, Cotter has become an ICMA Credentialed Manager, is an active participant in the Knowledge Network, and has served on multiple ICMA committees during his career. Cotter describes his service as "a small way to give back to the organization. Each ICMA member should seek to serve on a committee, board or other volunteer task force."

The goals of citizen engagement should be much deeper than what a local government can get through a simple public hearing.