Ever notice how workplace rhythms change with the seasons? Corporate offices seem to slow down in Summer when the majority of folks take vacation. It’s the same in those organizations that adjust work schedules to offer “summer hours” – extended hours Monday-Thursday to allow for half-days on Friday. It even sounds quieter with less phone calls and e-mail (especiallyon Fridays).

Nonetheless, work gets done (perhaps because it is quieter?) … and then the pace picks up again in Fall.

This back-to-work mindset goes hand-in-hand with back-to-school time. So it’s a good time to consider your professional development plans for the fall.

If you’re looking for quality professional development, here are two programs I strongly recommend:

• The 20th Annual Compete Through Service Symposium, Nov. 4-6, 2009, Phoenix AZ. This is the leading program for managers and executives who want to improve service strategy and delivery.
• Internal Branding & Internal Marketing: Strategic Integration for Market Leadership, Nov. 13, 2009, Houston TX. This is a new AMA program that I’m excited to develop and present with my colleague & internal branding, Debra Semans.