Professional development is often required or encouraged at work because these opportunities benefit both employees and employers. Understand the common types of professional development and why employers value them.
Continuing Education
Take a continuing education class, workshop, or webinar to improve your skills. Employers may offer in-person or online sessions during the workday, or you can complete them at your convenience outside work hours.
Mentoring
Mentoring lets you learn from colleagues who are further along in their careers. Non-directive mentoring pairs you with someone from a different department or career path, while directive mentoring pairs you with someone in your own department or field.
Presentations
Collaborate with team members or work alone to create a presentation for your department or company. Preparing and delivering a presentation builds subject-matter knowledge and public-speaking skills while encouraging discussion and feedback.
Professional Organization Participation
Join local, regional, national, or international professional organizations to access resources and attend meetings, workshops, and conferences. Participation helps you grow your network and stay current in your field.
Publishing
Publishing articles or other content is common in research roles but can also benefit many other careers. Writing with colleagues lets you share insights, deepen your expertise, and strengthen your resume.
Shadowing
Shadowing someone in a higher position for a day or a few weeks helps you learn about different roles and responsibilities. It is less immersive than mentoring but gives practical insight into other jobs within the organization.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a way to give back and develop professionally. It provides opportunities to practice communication, problem-solving, and teamwork while applying or expanding your skills.
Employers planning training programs can review Leadership Development — Insurance Considerations to understand related coverage and organizational issues.
If your role includes sales or client development, consider program examples like Sales Development Training Program when proposing structured training.
Professional development helps you advance your career and supports your company’s success; discuss options with your manager or ask your agent if you need help understanding coverage or funding options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as professional development?
Professional development includes formal courses, mentoring, presentations, conferences, publishing, shadowing, and volunteer activities that improve job-related skills.
Will my employer pay for training?
Some employers offer tuition reimbursement, paid workshops, or time off for training; check your company policy or ask HR about available programs.
How do I request a mentoring or shadowing opportunity?
Speak with your manager or HR to express interest and suggest a mentor or team to shadow, and propose goals and a preferred timeframe.