The Key to Success: Professional Development

In today’s competitive job market, standing out amongst the competition is vital. Earning a degree or certification on paper is no longer enough. Employers are seeking individuals who also possess practical knowledge and skills that can translate to success in the workplace. That’s where your commitment to professional development can “give you the edge you need.”

What is professional development and why is it important?

Professional development involves ongoing education and training specific to one’s occupation or career field. Whether it’s attending industry conferences, pursuing continuing education, or participating in job shadowing opportunities, taking the initiative to learn something new and refine your skills could potentially pay off in the long run when it comes to job prospects and career growth opportunities.

The benefits of professional development:

1. Keeps you current – Continuing education means keeping current in your current field. The more you know and the more current you are, the better off you will be.
2. Opens doors – Making a commitment to learning and refinement demonstrates motivation, dedication, and a desire for growth. 
3. Increases Confidence – Having a deep understanding of your area of expertise can help build your confidence, which can enhance your ability to lead others, take on bigger challenges and have a noticeable impact on your team.
4. Enhances your credibility – Adding additional certifications or taking courses can enhance your credibility and increase the chance you will mentor and lead others to contribute to the transformational change occurring in the industries of the size and businesses you work with.

The types of professional development courses that you can choose:

1. Industry Conferences: Networking with others within your industry is vital– not only do they often provide required continuing education for certification or licensure credits, which is a bonus, but they also provide opportunities to sharpen your professional skills.
2. Webinars and Podcasts: Taking on-going short classes, webinars or participating in interactive lectures can effectively broaden your knowledge base without breaking the bank. Many webinar series training platforms provide free or budget-friendly events.
3. Certification and Courses: Definitely, continuing education credits and advanced leadership/business coursework required by organizations you take could prove to be beneficial to you when it comes time to be selecting project opportunities and delivering solutions..
4. On-the-Job Training: Going outside your normal duties and seeking non-traditional learning opportunities is great; however, don’t forget that get-to-getting training programs offered within your current employer’s elearning platforms are readily available. This can be especially valuable.

In conclusion,

Professional development is the key to success, advancement, and growth within your chosen occupation or career field. Not only are on-going professional development courses and opportunities useful for attracting better job opportunities, but they can also help you accomplish your personal mission and empower your business. Leaders who can demonstrate continued learning and an unwavering commitment to professional mastery are invaluable.