In a world that’s forever changing we are constantly learning. The need for ongoing education and training, in both our personal and professional lives, is more important than ever.
Professional development is an important aspect of career growth and has multiple benefits for both employers and employees.
It not only provides an opportunity for staff to learn new skills, it also builds worker confidence, connections and could lead to career advancement.
For employers, investing in a team and offering opportunities for professional development plays a key role in employee satisfaction and staff retention. It’s known to increase productivity and create a positive culture.
Training vs development
Training and professional development are not the same. Where training fills a gap in knowledge and is often based on the needs of the organisation, professional development focuses on the employee and is an opportunity for growth for both the company and the individual.
Essentially training is a learning process where employees develop certain skills, knowledge or competencies that are needed to perform a specific task or job role. This is usually a short-term process aimed at improving productivity, safety or quality.
Development is a long term educational process that benefits the overall growth of an employee. It is not limited to a specific task, but aims to increase capability and change a mindset for example by developing leadership or relationship building skills.
Why is professional development important?
Employers that focus on the development of their team will find employees will be more motivated and engaged. Education opportunities will boost morale, create a positive culture and staff tend to be more productive.
Whilst some employers are worried that if they encourage professional development those workers will take their newly gained knowledge and leave, the opposite is actually true.
Investing in the development of your team leads to higher retention rates because staff are more likely to remain with an organisation that encourages personal and professional growth.
In fact, having opportunities for education and career advancement is becoming an expectation of many employees and organisations actually run the risk of losing staff if they’re not showing a commitment to professional development and career progression.
Benefits for employers
Professional development will help increase an employee’s confidence in their abilities. This can lead to higher job satisfaction and increased performance meaning they’re less likely to leave.
By demonstrating a willingness to invest in employees’ growth, you’re not only investing in an individual but in the whole team which will make you more attractive as a workplace to new hires.
Having opportunities for ongoing learning and education will ensure that employee knowledge and skills are up to date but it also means staff will be across the latest developments and trends in your industry.
Benefits for employees
Education and training not only increases your knowledge and skills, but also shows your commitment to self-improve.
Employers will recognise you are motivated to develop your skills and are driven to continue to grow, which will help you stand out when a new opportunity or promotion comes along.
Professional development will expose you to new ideas and help make new connections and grow your network. This could eventually lead to new opportunities or a next step in your career.
With clear benefits for organisations and individuals it’s easy to see why training and development in the workplace matters. Investing in staff is investing in the future of your business which will ultimately be a win-win for both.
