Professional learning while on the job is an important perk to any job. An essential lesson to remember is: if you have a job that teaches you, you’ll remain engaged and happy to work there.
When we start a new job, it’s often challenging because we’re learning all the new position’s ins and outs. This keeps us on our toes and sharp. As we get comfortable in our positions, we tend to go on autopilot and become less engaged unless our jobs offer professional learning opportunities.
Professional Development Draws Focus Away From Perks and Salary
When you stop learning on the job, you become more aware of other factors like salary, department budgets, resources, and workplace morale.
When you become bored at your job, it is much easier to obsess over perks and money. This is why the ability to continue professional learning is an important perk to any position. As people, we crave new challenges. Once we’ve mastered something, it will quickly become boring unless there’s a variety to continue to challenge us.
Company Culture Matters
A company with a sharing, learning, and mentoring culture will make for a more enjoyable work experience and advance you professionally. No one should want to remain stagnant in their field. If you hesitate to grow in your profession, you will be left at a disadvantage when it’s time to find a different job.
Development Keeps You Agile
Professional learning will also make you more flexible and adaptable when major changes happen—like budget cuts or shifts in technology or job methods. This versatility will make you more employable now and in the future.
An old belief in the professional world is that “old dogs can’t learn new tricks.” If you’re in a position where professional learning is offered and encouraged, then you will be able to prove this ‘old adage’ false. Continuing professional development is imperative for your professional career.
Knowledge is Something You will Have for Life.
Although money and perks matter, they are not permanent. The skills and knowledge you learn through your work will stick with you for a lifetime. The education you gain can’t be taken away from you and can’t be measured. The skills and knowledge you acquire will allow you to attain the money and perks you want more easily.
If you find yourself in a rut, seek out new ways to learn. Get involved in company committees, special projects, or put in extra effort toward your professional development. If you feel you’ve gained everything you can out of a certain job, perhaps it’s time to move on.
Need additional help? Reach out to Candace to learn more!
