“…with your expertise and persistence, you’ll break through red tape and barriers and create change for the better–and more importantly, create hope–in the lives of others.”
Congratulations on earning your degree in social work. You’re now ready to enter an indispensable career field that will bring great challenges and rewards to your life. As a social worker you are the advocate and conduit to change for those who may not have the wherewithal or resources to understand and do what’s best for them—or their living situation.
And you may well become the greatest gift that has ever happened to them as you help them improve their quality of life and navigate difficult roadblocks to find the help they need. Being an advocate for others brings great responsibility and resourcefulness on your part. You’ll maneuver time and budget constraints and juggle caseloads that only a super power could handle as you assess date and develop treatment plans for your clients.
But with your expertise and persistence, you’ll break through red tape and barriers and create change for the better—and more importantly, create hope—in the lives of others. What could be more fulfilling?
Social Workers
Job Growth
7.4%
772,100
Social Worker Jobs
in the U.S. by 2031
You’ve also joined a career field that is set to grow faster than average over at least the next decade. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 7.4% job growth for social workers, which is faster than average for all careers. The BLS projects that there will be more social worker jobs in the U.S. by 2031 because social workers will be needed to help the aging population and their families. And, as treatment for mental illness and other sociological issues becomes more relevant, social workers will assist these patients, as well as drug offenders who are sent to treatment programs rather than facing incarceration.
To help you perform your best on a daily basis, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to resources for social workers. You’ll find everything you need to connect with professionals and groups who are experts in the field. Here you can find professional organizations for social workers, learn about continuing education, get advice from your chosen social network who have been through the same experiences—and learn to stay on top of your game in this in-demand interdisciplinary profession.
Social Work Networking Resources
Network of Professional Social Workers
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/757827/profile
Join the Network of Professional Social Workers to connect with social workers around the globe. Find support and participate in discussions in this Linkedin group.
Social Work Action Network
http://www.socialworkfuture.org
UK-based Social Work Action Network holds regular conferences, campaigns and events. Stay connected with videos and articles no matter where you are.
International Federation of Social Workers
http://ifsw.org/connect
Share resources and form discussion groups with the help of the International Federation of Social Workers’ online networking tool.
Network for Social Work Management
https://socialworkmanager.org/membership
Connect at the local and national level when you become a member of the Network for Social Work Management. Webinars and professional development included.
National Association of Social Workers
http://careers.socialworkers.org/documents/networking.pdf
This brief article from the National Association of Social Workers offers facts on networking benefits and suggests ways to network effectively in the field of social work.
My Social Work Network
https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-social-work-network
Use My Social Work Network’s Linkedin page to create a professional profile, search for jobs and connect with others. Users can also search for other social workers and post videos and resources.
Tech.co
http://tech.co/social-work-apps-2015-10
Networking doesn’t have to stop at websites. Social work professionals can use apps to connect and find jobs. Read this article to learn about the latest technology.
Social Work Blogs
Political Social Worker
http://www.politicalsocialworker.org/blog-2
Boasting more than 3,000 unique visitors a month, the Political Social Worker blog dives into topics related to politics, macro social work and more.
Social Work Career
http://www.socialwork.career
Tap into the many resources on the Social Work Career blog. Social workers can find information on everything form the LMSW exam to personal growth.
The Masked AMHP
http://themaskedamhp.blogspot.com
Curious how mental health professionals and social workers operate in other countries? Peek inside this British blogger’s world.
Community Care: The Social Work Blog
http://www.communitycare.co.uk/blogs/social-work-blog
Social workers face many challenges in their profession. This blog explores topics such as pay, working conditions and job stress.
National Association of Social Workers
http://www.socialworkblog.org
Stay current on the latest issues affecting social workers. The National Association of Social Workers’ blog includes viewpoints on news affecting the nation and much more.
Inspired Social Work
https://inspiredsocialwork.wordpress.com
Expect nothing but truth from this hospital social worker. This blog explores the challenges social workers face and offers inspiration and support to readers.
Social Workers Speak
http://www.socialworkersspeak.org
Social Workers Speak is a cornucopia of useful information. From expert interviews to research roundups, this blog will keep you coming back for more.
Social Work Tech
http://www.socialworktech.com
The author of the Social Work Tech blog hopes to demystify technology as it relates to social work. Learn how technology can be instrumental in personal and professional development.
Career Information
Social Work Career Center
http://careers.socialworkers.org
Need help with your resume? Not sure how to market yourself? Interested in salary trends? Find this information and more at the Social Work Career Center.
Hartford National Center on Gerontological Social Work Excellence
https://www.gswi.org/careers-funding/career-resources
Geriatric social workers can find career resources specifically geared to their specialization. Learn more about the field and how it’s evolving.
National Association of Social Workers
http://www.naswca.org/?page=A3
The California chapter of the National Association of Social Workers provides users with career resources, degree information and professional development links.
American Sociological Association
https://www.asanet.org/career-center
Become a member of the American Sociological Association (ASA) and gain free access to the ASA job bank. Or, utilize the ASA’s employment service which allows job seekers and employers to meet before the annual meeting.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm
Interested in what the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes has to say about social worker career? This overview page is a good starting point.
U.S. News & World Report
http://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/child-and-family-social-worker
Learn why U.S. News & World Report ranks Child and Family Social Worker as #8 in best social services jobs. Salary and education information are included on the page.
Social Worker Job Bank
http://www.socialworkjobbank.com/site
Designed for job seekers and employers, this career portal backed by The New Social Worker magazine has updated job postings, articles and resources. Start searching now.
Social Work Career Quiz
http://www.abacon.com/socwk/quiz/index.html
Curious about social work careers, education and laws? Take this true-or-false quiz to test your knowledge and learn new information about the field.
U.S. Navy
http://www.navy.com/careers/healthcare/clinical-care/social-work.html#ft-key-responsibilities
As a Navy social worker, you’ll work with members of the Navy and their families. Support those who serve while building your career as a clinical social worker.
Monster.com
http://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/sample-resume-social-worker
Looking for resume inspiration? Check out the sample resume of a social worker on Monster.com. Tips and templates available.
Princeton Review
http://www.princetonreview.com/careers/143/social-worker
Get a glimpse of what it’s like to be a social worker today and years from now. The Princeton Review provides a thorough explanation on what you can expect in this helping profession.
Help Starts Here
http://www.helpstartshere.org/careers
For a clear explanation on what it means to be a social worker, look no further than Help Starts Here from the National Association of Social Workers. A brief article explores the various layers of the profession.
Idealist.org
http://www.idealist.org
Search for jobs, volunteer opportunities and internships. Use idealist.org to find your next social work experience or career path.
Association of Social Work Boards
https://www.aswb.org/licensees/about-licensing-and-regulation
A career in social work can’t begin until you’ve obtained licensing in your state. Find everything you need to know from the Association of Social Work Boards.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-4
The Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes pay, job outlook and other detailed career information about social workers. It’s the go-to source for career stats in the United States.
O*Net
http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/21-1021.00
Find straightforward career information about child, family and school social workers. Published by O*Net, readers can browse tasks, tools and technology used on the job and detailed worked activities.
Social Work Tech
http://www.socialworktech.com/tools
One social worker shares technology tools he’s developed for his own practice. Topics include grief, self assessment and self-care.
Social Work p.r.n.
http://www.socialworkprn.com
A staffing agency dedicated specifically to the field of social work, Social Work p.r.n. partners with employers and social workers. Find featured jobs and other resources.
National Association of Social Workers
http://www.socialworkers.org/students/default.asp
Start your social work career on the right foot (before you graduate). Tap into the National Association of Social Workers’ Student Center to find information on careers, leadership and credentials.
Social Work Test Prep
https://www.socialworktestprep.com
Prepping for the social work licensing exam? Make this your first stop. Social Work Test Prep has free practice tests, study guides and tips. You can even connect with others in your area.
U.S. Air Force
https://www.airforce.com/careers/detail/clinical-social-worker
The U.S. Air Force provides employment opportunities for clinical social workers interested in helping Airmen and their families. Check the site for qualification requirements.
Social Work Exam
https://socialworkexam.com
The primary mission at Social Work Exam is to provide all of the resources you’ll need to help you pass your exam. Find study materials, practice exams and more.
Social Work History
National Association of Social Workers
https://www.socialworkers.org/pressroom/features/general/history.asp
Scan this bulleted list of social work history facts from the National Association of Social Workers. Learn how it all started and find out who the trailblazers were.
The Huffington Post
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/laura-m-de-palma/remembering-our-roots-rei_b_5036635.html
Co-authored by a community organizer and social work professor, this Huffington Post article examines the roots of social work and how community-based practices can be implemented today.
Encyclopedia of Social Work
http://socialwork.oxfordre.com/view/10.1093/acrefore/9780199975839.001.0001/acrefore-9780199975839-e-620
How did social work develop? When did it change? Find answers to these questions and more within the Encyclopedia of Social Work, a publication of the National Association of Social Workers Press and Oxford University Press.
University of Southern California
https://msw.usc.edu/mswusc-blog/9-most-influential-women-in-the-history-of-social-work
Women have always been major contributors to social work practice. In this quick read by the University of Southern California, learn more about the 9 most influential women in the history of social work, from Jane Addams to Senator Barbara Mikulski.
New World Encyclopedia
http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Social_work
Family welfare, school social work and community practice are a few of the topics examined in the New World Encyclopedia’s social work entry. A comprehensive source with solid references.
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxctzJg-p-g
This 12-minute video explores social justice and the beginnings of social work in the U.S. The video outlines historical figures, child labor, hospital social work and important moments in history.
Linkedin
http://www.slideshare.net/florenceflorespasos/history-of-social-welfare-and-social-work
In this SlideShare presentation, readers will find a comprehensive look at social work’s history and social welfare. The 110-slide deck looks at the evolution of the profession in the Philippines, Europe and the U.S.
Social Work Today
http://www.socialworktoday.com/news/eoe_061614.shtml
Social Work Today delves deeper into the profession’s history with a look at ethics. Learn how things have evolved (the NASW’s Code of Ethics was once only one page long!) and how the digital age impacts social work.
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
http://www.bidmc.org/Centers-and-Departments/Departments/Patient-And-Family-Care-Services/Social-Work/National-Social-Work-Month/A-Social-Work-Timeline.aspx
A world leader in hospitals, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center honors National Social Work Month with an easy-to-read timeline of the profession. Start your journey in 1869 thanks to this quick history lesson.
Social Work Research
Social Work Policy Institute
http://www.socialworkpolicy.org/research
Nothing that “research informs professional practice,” the Social Work Policy Institute devotes an entire page to information related to social work topics like homelessness and child trauma.
Center for Workforce Studies
http://workforce.socialworkers.org
NASW’s Center for Workforce Studies aims to conduct research, disseminate information and promote professional development. Browse their site for useful research studies.
University of New England
http://socialwork.une.edu/resources/news/the-role-of-research-in-social-work
Tap into the many research resources culled together by the University of New England. From social work research methods to research in specific situations, you’ll find a wealth of information.
Office of Legislative Policy and Analysis
https://olpa.od.nih.gov/legislation/108/pendinglegislation/socialwork.asp
Anyone entering the social work profession should have an understanding of the National Center for Social Work Research Act of 2004. This page from the Office of Legislative Policy and Analysis provides background.
National Association of Social Workers
http://www.socialworkers.org/naswprn
The Practice Research Network, launched by NASW, examines social work issues using research. Have a look at past surveys about social work income, demographics and other related topics.
Council on Social Work Education
http://www.cswe.org/cms/17157.aspx
As a leader in research, the Council on Social Work Education has a clear stance on research integrity in social work. Read about responsible conduct, peer reviews and publication practices, among other topics.
Professional Organizations
National Association of Social Workers
https://www.socialworkers.org/nasw/default.asp
Boasting more than 132,000 members, the National Association of Social Workers promotes professional development, sets professional standards and works in advocacy. Membership includes access to journals and discounts on training.
American Clinical Social Work Association
http://www.acswa.org
The American Clinical Social Work Association is open to students and practitioners. Become a member and connect with others in the field, enjoy discounts on publications and set up a profile.
Clinical Social Work Association
http://www.clinicalsocialworkassociation.org
The Clinical Social Work Association (CSWA) promotes “identity, integrity and parity.” Check in with the CSWA for legislative updates, news from state affiliates and the latest announcement
National Association of Black Social Workers
http://nabsw.org
Founded in the 1960s, the National Association of Black Social Workers is committed to advocacy, research and human services. The site includes facts on membership, local chapters and careers.
Society for Social Work Leadership in Health Care
http://www.sswlhc.org
With seven chapters across the country, the Society for Social Work Leadership in Health Care aims to provide continuing education, mentorships and support to its members.
School Social Work Association of America
http://sswaa.site-ym.com
The School Social Work Association of America’s site is chock full of useful information, including webinars, tax documents and membership benefits. Learn more about the association’s advocacy efforts and take action through the site.
Social Work Hospice & Palliative Care Network
http://www.swhpn.org
Get the latest information about palliative and hospice care by becoming a member of the Social Work Hospice & Palliative Care Network. Read news, visit the career center and access resources about programs and practice standards.
National Association of Puerto Rican Hispanic Social Workers
http://www.naprhsw.com
The National Association of Puerto Rican Hispanic Social Workers has a clear focus: The welfare of Puerto Rican and Hispanic families. By becoming a member, you join an active organization that promotes cultural activities and runs immigration law workshops.
National Organization of Forensic Social Work
http://www.nofsw.org
Using conferences, newsletters and networking, the National Organization of Forensic Social Work works to promote advancement in the field. A unique aspect of the social work profession, forensics allows you to work with law makers and in the criminal justice system.
Society for Social Work
http://secure.sswr.org
The Society for Social Work (SSWR) and Research offers members a robust collection of resources. Join SSWR and attend the annual conference, access job postings and more. Membership is open to students and professionals.
Podcasts and Videos
Social Work Podcast
http://socialworkpodcast.blogspot.com
For fascinating interviews and comprehensive information on social worker, become a regular listener of the Social Work Podcast hosted by Jonathan Singer, Ph.D., LCSW.
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84bE1M6Usz0
In 2014, Frontline created a 3-minute film showcasing young people who were positively impacted by social workers. It’s nothing short of inspiring.
The New Social Worker
http://www.socialworker.com/extras/video
The New Social Worker may be a magazine, but it’s online presence also includes helpful videos for social workers. Visit the site to view the latest uploads.
Children’s Social Work Matters
http://www.childrenssocialworkmatters.org/making-a-difference/videos
Want to learn more about children’s social work? Hear from social workers in the field and get tips on interviewing. Plus, go beyond videos and explore an entire site devoted to children’s social work.
National Association of Social Worker
https://www.youtube.com/user/socialworkers
Popular uploads, playlists and dozens of videos about social work can all be found on the National Association of Social Worker’s YouTube channel.
University of Buffalo
http://www.insocialwork.org
In this bi-weekly podcast series produced by the University of Buffalo’s School of Social Work, viewers can choose from more than 190 episodes that delve into topics like adult-sibling relationships and environmental justice.
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77UGDj48oHs
“This Could Be You: The Many Faces of Social Work” is a short video that includes interviews with social work students, a private practice social worker and school social worker.
Social Care Institute for Excellence
http://www.scie.org.uk/socialcaretv/topic.asp?t=socialwork
Get a deeper understanding of social work with these videos produced by the Social Care Institute for Excellence. Topics include children and families and adult services.
C-Span
http://www.c-span.org/video/?320179-1/discussion-role-social-workers
Steve Perry, author of “Push Has Come to Shove: Getting Our Kids the Education They Deserve,” discusses the impact social workers can have on minority and impoverished communities.
International Federation of Social Workers
http://ifsw.org/2015-world-social-work-day-videos
Although 2015’s World Social Work Day has passed, visitors to the International Federation of Social Workers’ (IFSW) site can view inspiring videos from IFSW leaders.
National Association of Social Workers
https://www.socialworkers.org/pressroom/swmonth/2015/testimonials.asp
View testimonial videos from social workers around the country. The series of videos were posted by the National Association of Social Workers in honor of Social Work Month.
TED
http://www.ted.com/search?q=social+work
From human rights activists to musicians, choose from a range of TED Talks about social work. Speakers include Kyrsten Sinema, John Legend and Clint Smith.
Social Media and Forums
Social Work Today
http://www.socialworktoday.com/archive/020911p8.shtml
Social workers in the 21st century deal with unique obstacles their predecessors didn’t encounter. Read this in-depth article about using social media responsibly.
National Association of Social Workers
https://twitter.com/nasw
Stay informed by following the National Association of Social Workers’ Twitter feed. The group addresses topical events and posts regular updates.
Social Work Today
https://twitter.com/socialworktoday
Social Work Today magazine is on Twitter. The publication examines issues affecting the profession and highlights successes.
Social Work Helper
https://twitter.com/swhelpercom
Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Social Work Helper Deona Hooper tweets and retweets observations and news about social work.
The Network of Professional Social Workers
https://www.facebook.com/NPSWGlobal
Use this Facebook page to connect with social workers around the globe. The Network of Professional Social Workers uses their page to update users on events like Social Work Month.
Social Workers Unite
https://www.facebook.com/SocialWorkersUnite
Social Workers Unite do just that on this Facebook page. Support other social workers and connect with educators and advocates.
Social Work Today
https://www.facebook.com/SocialWorkToday
Social Work Today magazine is on Facebook. Get the latest updates from the publication that examines issues affecting the profession and highlights successes.
Social Work Helper
https://storify.com/swunited
With all its social media stories posted on one page, it’s easy to see what Social Work Helper has been up to. With a view count, you can see what the most popular posts are.
Council on Social Work Education
http://www.cswe.org/27986.aspx
Want to talk about a social work topic, challenge or success? Participate in the Council on Social Work Education’s discussion forums and connect with others.
Indeed.com
http://www.indeed.com/forum/job/social-worker.html
Indeed.com’s social work jobs forum is an active online space where users can ask questions, vent frustrations and talk to other social workers.
GradCafe
http://forum.thegradcafe.com/forum/65-social-work
The social work forum on GradCafe is perfect for aspiring and current students. Ask questions about schools and programs and get advice.
My Social Work Network
https://www.facebook.com/My-Social-Work-Network-267736268513
Dig into another robust Facebook network for social workers. My Social Work Network allows you to search for jobs and share resources.
Publications
New Social Worker
http://blog.socialworker.com
If you’re a social work student or recent graduate, tap into the New Social Worker blog. Its content is aimed at people who are new to the field and need information on careers.
NASW Press
http://www.naswpress.org
NASW Press publishes journals, books and reference materials. Publications include Workplace Bullying: Clinical and Organizational Perspectives and Social Work Practice in Child Welfare: The Interactional Model.
Social Work Today
http://www.socialworktoday.com
Peruse Social Work Today’s online articles. The site provides article archives, web exclusives and access to articles in the current issue.
Journal of Social Work Education
http://www.cswe.org/Publications/JSWE.aspx
Members can access the Journal of Social Work Education both in print and online. The publication has 3,500 subscribers and focuses on trends and problems within social work education.
Social Work Policy Institute
http://www.socialworkpolicy.org/publications/swpi-publications
Tap into the Social Work Policy Institute’s archive of reports to find information on racial equality, doctoral degrees in social work and policy.
Journal of Social Work
http://jsw.sagepub.com
Trending themes, research and theory are key components in the Journal of Social Work. The peer-reviewed publication promotes the debate of ideas in its issues.
Social Work and Society
http://www.socwork.net/sws
Search current and archived issues of Social Work and Society. The international online journal addresses topics such as drug use, orphan care and marginalized youth.
Qualitative Social Work
http://qsw.sagepub.com
Qualitative Social Work offers insight qualitative research and approaches used in social work practice. Refer to this journal for information on emerging applications, among other topics.
International Social Work
http://isw.sagepub.com
International Social Work examines social development and human services around the world. Research focuses on how services are delivered and the role of social workers.
Child & Family Social Work
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/%28ISSN%291365-2206
Recently published articles, abstracts and the latest issues of Child & Family Social Work can be found on this page. Learn what researchers are saying about the welfare of children and their families across the globe.
NASW Press
https://www.naswpress.org/publications/journals
Find out more detailed information about NASW Press’ main publications, including Social Work, Children & Schools and Social Work Research.
Research on Social Work
http://rsw.sagepub.com
Research on Social Work publishes information related to assessment methods in social work and the outcomes. Online issues are published before print editions.