Benefits of Professional Development

By Suzanne Ortiz, Program Manager, Corporate College

These are uncertain times. We don’t know what tomorrow will bring, but we do know there will be a future, and we need to be prepared for it. That is why professional development is so important.

Here are a few benefits of professional development: 

• Learning new skills. Adding to your skills will help you succeed in your current and future positions. Just as the world is ever changing, so is professional development. There is always room to improve upon how you communicate with others, how to use different software, how to improve processes and how to market your services. These are skills that change with the times, and being able to keep those skills up-to-date can set you apart from others.

• Taking the next step in your career. Do you want to advance in your career? Companies are moving at a fast pace. Not all companies can train their employees the way they want or select candidates who have the necessary skills to do the job. Additional training can help you get the position you want.

• Demonstrating interest. Pursuing additional training shows your current and future employers that you want to take the next step in your career and learn something new. Taking this type of initiative shows that you not only want to improve yourself, but that you want to improve the company you work for.

• Improving time management. Did you ever work or play sports while going to school? You know it takes a lot of dedication and organization ̶  and most importantly, time management  ̶  to balance sports and school. That skill set is no different now. Learning how to manage your schedule is a skill that will benefit you both professionally and personally.

No matter the benefits, what is important is that you do what is best for you and your future. Focus on what will help you succeed!