Training and Development
During your first year at the LAO you will
receive a significant amount of classroom and on-the-job
training to further develop your skills.
Training is provided in the following areas:
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State budget process
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State legislative process
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Identifying and analyzing fiscal issues
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Writing
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Testifying
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Becoming a program expert
In addition, analysts in various sections
throughout the office will present information about the projects
they are working on or provide informational sessions in their
policy areas throughout the year. Topics for these sessions have
included how K-12 education is funded in California, tax subsidies
for the film industry, and a discussion about state and local
mandates.
Analysts also attend a wide variety of statewide
and national conferences, educational seminars, and conduct site
visits in support of their continuing professional development.
The buddy system. The LAO uses a “buddy” system to
provide new analysts an additional support network, beyond other new
analysts, the manager, and members of the section during their first
year in the office. The buddy system pairs a new analyst with two
more experienced analysts, who informally help the new analyst learn
about the LAO and smooth their adjustment to the office.
The buddy system includes regular coffee breaks
or lunches to help ensure that in-formal relationships are being
developed. The buddies provide opportunities for the new analyst to
shadow more experienced analysts. Also, the more experienced
analysts will review with the new analysts sessions of the buddies
testifying during recent budget hearings to help new analysts
develop their testifying skills.