Are you thinking about investing in a professional development course? It’s always a positive to invest in your career, but there are signs it’s crucial. If you have concerns about redundancy, challenging projects at work or lack the confidence to do your role well, these are just some reasons to invest in professional development.

What is Professional Development?

Professional development is education or mentoring that leads to learning, which gains or maintains your professional credentials. Professional development can include academic degrees, formal coursework, online courses, conferences and informal learning opportunities in the workplace.

1. Redundancy is Likely in Your Industry/Company

Redundancy and job insecurity are real, but it will take the sting (or at least the surprise) out of it if you’re prepared. If you’re in an industry renowned for redundancy, it’s even more important to be realistic about your job security.

Maintaining and gaining new skills through professional development is crucial to minimise your risk of redundancy, as you may be able to move into another role, but you’ll also be more likely to find a new job quickly.

2. Roles (You Want) Have Education Requirements You Don’t Meet

Are there positions in your company that interest you, but you don’t have all the skills you need to apply? If so, a professional development course – even a short online course – will help you get your foot in the door. You can learn many roles while on the job, but having a foundation of knowledge will give you a competitive advantage for a promotion or career change.

3. You Don’t Feel Confident

If you have difficulty at work, face a challenging project, or feel overwhelmed in a role, professional development can help you.

Whether you’re experiencing difficulty with communication, leadership, time management or even public speaking, there’s a course to help you overcome any workplace challenge.

4. It’s Been a Long Time Since You’ve Studied

If it’s been years since you’ve learned something new, a professional development course will help you gain the latest skills in leadership, marketing, sales, communication – and many other industries! It’s a great way to feel competent and confident in your current role.

If you work in dynamic industries like digital and design, staying up to date on new developments is even more crucial. Regardless, gaining knowledge and acquiring new skills is also a confidence-booster. And let’s face it, most of us could use that in the workplace!

5. Your Industry is Changing Rapidly

In many industries, change is the only constant. You must make sure you’re prepared. A professional development course in change management will be vital if you lead change. If you know what changes are on the horizon, boosting your skillset (and that of co-workers) via professional development will make the change less threatening and stressful.

6. You’re Stuck in a Career Rut

Are you stuck in a career rut? If so, it’s never too late to change careers. Depending on the job you choose, you might need to upskill. Whether taking an online professional development course or enrolling in tertiary education, a commitment to study and a positive attitude will take you far.

7. You Want to Start a Business

It’s understandable to feel underqualified when you start a business. It’s a massive undertaking that requires you to wear many hats! There are so many factors that will determine whether your business will succeed.  A few of the most important skills for running your own business include financial literacy, marketing and communications, time management and leadership.

Start with the most important skills you want to gain and work backwards when considering professional development courses. Because while education is an investment in your future, you need to be realistic about your budget. It doesn’t have to be a considerable expense, as many short online courses may be adequate to upskill, change careers or even start a business! Many factors will influence your decision, from your financial situation to essential requirements set by industry bodies. The bottom line – do your research, and do it well!