There are very few careers that remain the same over the years, or even months. So, the skills you have right now will not be relevant or adequate for the job that will be required in five years. It’s an exciting time to be working, but it’s also important to keep up with the ever-changing, technology-driven nature of workplaces. In this blog, we explore a definition of formal, informal, structured and self-directed CPD and why it’s crucial to the longevity of your career.
What is CPD?
Continuing professional development (CPD) is the ongoing learning you undertake after you have completed formal education or training. Its purpose is to improve your knowledge, skills, and professional competence to stay current with industry developments, enhance your workplace performance, and feel confident pursuing new opportunities.
CPD can take four forms: formal, informal, structured, or self-directed.
Formal
Learning activities that follow a recognised structure and are often delivered by an educational institution, training provider, or professional body. Examples include accredited courses, certifications, workshops, and seminars.
Informal
Unstructured learning that occurs through everyday professional activities and personal development. Examples include reading industry articles, listening to podcasts, or learning from workplace experiences
Structured
Planned learning activities with defined objectives and outcomes, but not necessarily leading to a formal qualification. Examples include webinars, mentoring programs, conferences, and in-house training sessions.
Self-directed
Learning initiated and managed by the individual, based on their own professional goals and interests. Examples include self-study, online research, watching educational videos, and completing independent learning projects.
Why Is CPD Important?
CPD helps you to maintain and improve your knowledge and skills throughout your career and provides the following benefits:
Maintains Your Existing Skills
Most industries evolve as a result of new technology, legislation and changing customer expectations. So, CPD ensures your existing skills are current.
Supports Your Career Growth
CPD helps you prepare for promotions and new responsibilities, whether you want to find a new direction or move into more senior roles.
Builds Your Confidence
Ongoing learning improves your competence and decision-making, which builds confidence.
Meet Industry Requirements
If you work in a profession that requires formal CPD, you will require evidence of professional development to maintain registrations, memberships, or licences.
Develops Your Leadership Skills
CPD can help you build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take on leadership roles. When you embrace ongoing professional development and combine it with practical experience, you will feel prepared to take on greater responsibilities and support the success of teams and organisations.
Types of CPD Activities
There are many types of CPD activities that fall into four categories – formal, informal, structured and self-directed – and each is important to add to your professional development journey.
Formal CPD
Formal CPD involves organised learning activities that are delivered by recognised education providers, training organisations, or professional bodies.
- Accredited courses
- Professional development courses
- Diplomas and qualifications
- University or TAFE programs
- Professional association training
- Licensing or compliance courses
- Assessment-based training programs
Informal CPD
Informal CPD refers to learning that occurs naturally through everyday work experiences and personal learning activities.
- Reading industry articles, journals, and publications
- Listening to podcasts
- Watching educational videos
- Following industry news and trends
- Learning from workplace experiences
- Reflective practice
- Peer discussions and knowledge sharing
Structured CPD
Structured CPD consists of planned learning activities with clear objectives and outcomes, but which may not result in a formal qualification.
- Workshops
- Webinars
- Seminars
- Conferences
- Industry events
- In-house training sessions
- Mentoring programs
- Coaching sessions
- Professional networking events
Self-Directed CPD
Self-directed CPD is learning that individuals plan and manage themselves to meet their personal or professional development goals.
- Independent research
- Professional development courses
- Reading books related to your profession
- Developing new workplace skills
- Completing online tutorials
- Practising new techniques or technologies
- Creating personal development plans
- Learning through professional projects
How to Pursue CPD Successfully
Embarking on your continuing professional development journey doesn’t have to be difficult if you take a structured approach to your learning. You can get the most out of your time if you consider the learning activities that best progress your professional goals and deliver meaningful results in your career.
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Identify Your Career Goals
Ask yourself, what do you want to accomplish in your career? Whether you’re looking towards a promotion, a change of industry or gaining specialist skills in your current role, having clear goals will help you make sensible CPD decisions.
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Consider Any Skills Gaps
In your current role, are there any skills you’re lacking? Looking ahead, are there foreseeable skills gaps that might hinder your career progression? If the answer is yes, consider what CPD activities will fill these gaps to safeguard your career. If you’re unsure, you can ask for feedback from managers or colleagues or look at recent performance reviews for clues.
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Choose Relevant CPD Activities
Select CPD activities that support your goals and fill any identified skills gaps. You may be able to combine formal, informal, structured, and self-directed activities, such as online courses, workshops, webinars, certifications, mentoring programs, and industry events.
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Set a Learning Schedule
Achieving a goal requires consistent and disciplined effort. For CPD goals, ensure you set aside regular days and times for learning. It’s also important to create realistic timelines and milestones to help you stay on track. You can learn more about setting up a successful professional development plan here.
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Track Your Progress
Make sure you keep a record of completed courses, certifications, training activities, and any learning outcomes you’ve achieved. When you consistently track your progress, you demonstrate your commitment to professional development and boost your future career opportunity potential.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth. When you regularly invest in the development of new skills and knowledge, you’ll stay competitive and reach your career goals faster. So, whether through formal qualifications, short online courses, workshops, or self-directed learning, your CPD efforts all contribute to long-term career success.
Can we help you find CPD opportunities? We have hundreds of professional development courses and micro-credentials that will help you in your career or to find a new direction. Simply contact one of our friendly Course Consultants on 1300 76 2221, via Live Chat, or visit our website for more information.
