professional growth essay

Why is Professional Development Important?

Learn the role of professional development in advancing your career.

Lian Parsons

Professional development is an important aspect of continuing your career growth and striving to reach your goals.

This blog post will explain what professional development is, its benefits to both employers and their employees, and how to seek different opportunities out to reach your full potential.

What is Professional Development?

Professional development is gaining new skills through continuing education and career training after entering the workforce. It can include taking classes or workshops, attending professional or industry conferences, or earning a certificate to expand your knowledge in your chosen field.

Some companies offer in-house opportunities for professional development, such as training sessions or mentoring programs, but many professional development programs are done independently.

Professional development is important because it has the potential to open opportunities for career advancement, such as promotions. It can assist you in honing existing skills and in learning new ones.

It can also help you stand out in a pool of applicants; showing that you have completed professional development programs or additional industry certifications on your resume can go a long way in showing your expertise in your field.

Employees who show initiative in independent learning can signal to employers that you are open to new experiences and are enthusiastic about continuing to grow.

Benefits of Professional Development for Employers

Professional development can be instrumental in growing a stronger team.

Employers who encourage their employees to seek out professional development opportunities are in turn encouraging higher productivity and job satisfaction.

Higher Retention Rates

According to a Business News Daily article, businesses should offer professional development opportunities to their employees to improve potential turnover.

Professional development can help to bolster employees’ confidence in their work. Greater confidence can, in turn, translate into higher overall job satisfaction, employee performance, productivity, and overall morale.

Investing in professional development training programs also shows employees that their company is invested in their success and interested in cultivating their advancement.

Attract Better Talent

It can be challenging to find — and retain — talented employees. Offering professional development opportunities can help employers fill open positions by attracting and retaining skilled employees.

According to talent management platform Clear Company, 74 percent of employees say that a lack of professional development opportunities are preventing them from reaching their full potential. Additionally, 94 percent of employees would stay longer at a company if it invested in staff development.

Employers offering these benefits are more likely to attract potential employees who are interested in striving for excellence and pursuing advancement.

Investing in professional development for employees can grow an existing team’s skills and entice new talent to join with the incentive of a clear learning and development plan.

Help Employees Stay Up to Date With Industry Trends to Keep Skills Sharp

Industry trends move rapidly, and it’s important for companies to keep pace with the times. Ongoing professional development can prevent potential stagnation by maintaining — and improving — employee skills.

Look for programs that will help you stay up to date, such as those for agile leadership for hybrid work, or for innovation strategy .

Employees engaged in professional development are also more likely to stay engaged in their work and to be enthusiastic about pursuing their goals.

Get started on your professional development journey today.

Benefits of Professional Development for Employees

From gaining confidence in your abilities to building potential for advancement, professional development offers employees many benefits for not only your career, but your personal goals as well.

Learn new skills

Through professional development, you may hone both hard and soft skills in your work. Hard skills pertain to job-specific knowledge you can obtain through formal training or education. Soft skills are personal competencies, such as effective communication or the skills that contribute to emotional intelligence .

Developing both types of skills is important to reaching your professional goals — and even some of your personal ones.

Boost Confidence and Credibility

Adding additional skills or certification from a professional development program to your resume is one way to boost your confidence in your skills and show your credibility to employers.

Professional development opportunities can expose both new and experienced professionals to new ideas and expertise. Seeking out these opportunities shows ambition and the space to practice those new competencies.

Develop Leadership Skills

A confident employee is also likely an enthusiastic employee. If you take the step to grow and develop your skills, the incentive to seek out additional opportunities can continue to expand along with it.

If you are an employee who wants to advance your career but isn’t sure how to do so, professional development can encourage you to put your hand up for leadership opportunities you may not have sought out otherwise.

This blog post offers helpful tips on how to choose a leadership development program.

Build Your Network

Professional development can provide many opportunities for networking. Workshops, conferences, classes, and webinars are all spaces in which professionals can meet new people within their industry and make new connections.

These connections can lead to new opportunities, mentorship, and support which may provide the next stepping stone in your career.

Advance in your career

A well-qualified employee attracts employer attention. Employees who are invested in professional development display commitment to their work and an interest in continuing to improve.

Professional development can also boost your earning potential by increasing your value through obtaining credentials, certifications, and designations.

Where to Take Professional Development Courses

There are a broad range of professional development opportunities.

Harvard Division of Continuing Education’s Professional & Executive Development offers dozens of courses spanning multiple industries. Your employer may even help you pay for these opportunities if you effectively show their worth.

There are both in-person and online options available, so choose what works best for your goals and lifestyle.

Seek out programs, workshops, seminars, mentorship programs, and more within your industry. Investing in yourself is just the first step.

Take the next step to advance your career. Find the program that’s right for you.

Browse all Professional & Executive Development programs.

About the Author

Lian Parsons is a Boston-based writer and journalist. She is currently a digital content producer at Harvard’s Division of Continuing Education. Her bylines can be found at the Harvard Gazette, Boston Art Review, Radcliffe Magazine, Experience Magazine, and iPondr.

Strategic Leadership

Senior level managers must tackle complex problems using creative problem-solving and a portfolio of skills and styles. Here’s a look at how being a strategic leader can move an organization—and your career—forward.

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

Homework Help
Essay Examples
Citation Generator
Writing Guides
Essay Title Generator
Essay Outline Generator
Flashcard Generator
Plagiarism Checker
Paraphrasing Tool
Conclusion Generator
Thesis Statement Generator
Introduction Generator
Literature Review Generator
Hypothesis Generator
Professional Growth Essays

Professional Growth Essays (Examples)

1000+ documents containing “professional growth” .

Filter by Keywords:(add comma between each)

Why the us is the best country in the world.

Title: Reasons Why the US is the Best Country in the World Introduction: The United States of America is widely regarded as one of the most powerful and influential countries globally. As an epitome of democracy, economic strength, innovation, and cultural diversity, several reasons make the US the best country in the world today. 1. Political Stability: The US boasts a stable political system that upholds the principles of democracy and individual liberties. Its robust system of checks and balances ensures accountability and prevents the concentration of power, making it an attractive destination for both citizens and immigrants. 2. Economic Powerhouse: The United States possesses the....

Explore how schreiner allow women to support each other in woman\'s rose

Schreiner provides a platform for women to support each other in Woman's Rose through various means: 1. Community Building: Schreiner creates a community where women can connect, share their stories, and seek advice from one another. The platform allows women to interact and form relationships, providing a supportive environment to uplift and inspire each other. 2. Discussion Forums: Within Woman's Rose, there are dedicated discussion forums where women can engage in conversations on diverse topics. These forums serve as a space where women can seek guidance, share their experiences, and offer support to one another. 3. Mentorship Opportunities: Schreiner offers mentorship programs where....

Do you have any tips for outlining an essay specifically on the subject of Rizal Law and its Implications to the Filipino Students\' Present and Future Life

I. Introduction A. Brief explanation of the Rizal Law B. Importance of the Rizal Law to Filipino students II. The Rizal Law and its implications to present-day Filipino students A. Promotion of patriotism and nationalism B. Emphasis on the importance of Philippine history and heritage C. Development of critical thinking skills D. Exposure to different perspectives on Rizal and his works E. Influence on students' values and attitudes towards national identity III. The Rizal Law and its implications to the future life of Filipino students A. Preparation for responsible citizenship B. Contribution to the preservation of Filipino culture and identity C.....

I\'m up for a challenge! Do you have any complex or thought-provoking essay topics on how do you plan teacher interview?

1. Discuss the importance of effective communication and interpersonal skills in a teacher interview process. 2. Analyze the role of creativity and innovation in determining a teacher candidate's suitability for a position. 3. Evaluate the significance of cultural awareness and diversity in a teacher interview process. 4. Explore the impact of technology and digital literacy in modern teacher interviews. 5. Discuss the ethical considerations and challenges involved in conducting teacher interviews. 6. Examine the role of emotional intelligence and empathy in assessing a teacher candidate's potential. 7. Analyze the effectiveness of various assessment tools, such as role-playing and case studies, in teacher interviews. 8. Discuss the importance....

Professional Growth Plan Over the Next Few

Professional Growth Plan Over the next few years, I would like to work on my personal and professional goals in order to prepare myself for a career in education. It is important for anyone entering the educational industry to fully understand the values and principles involved in teaching others or creating educational programs for others. Therefore, my overall professional growth plan centers on developing the knowledge and values needed to provide others with limitless academic and physical opportunities. I plan to study and assess these values and principles in preparation for y career. Whether I enter the educational industry as a teacher, curriculum planner, or one of many other positions in the field, it is important to me that my career focuses on technology, as it is one of my greatest strengths and areas of interest. Over the next year, I plan to concentrate on increasing my technical skills in preparation for my….

Attributes for Professional Growth When

Deep self-reflection and an understanding of how t blend the lessons learned about the self with those observed from the external world around the individual facilitating true Professional Growth. Additionally, there are clear consequences for progressing further on a path of Professional Growth. For example, individuals who do proceed to grow in their career paths in clinical nursing fields will begin to transition into new paths and structures as they learn more about themselves as active agents within flexible health strategies. There are a number of transitions that help facilitate Professional Growth, and are in fact, different for every individual based on circumstances and self-awareness levels. These transitions help push the individual further along in their goal of Professional Growth and help provide a foundation for future learning of new stage developments as they continue to grow. Essentially, "transitions have been defined as passages or movements from one state, condition, or….

Boychuck, Judy Duchscher. (2008). A process of becoming: The stages of new nursing graduate professional role transition. Journal of Continuing Nursing Education, 39(10), 441-450.

Ehrenberg, Anna C. & Haggblom, Marianne. (2007). Problem-based learning in clinical education: Integrating theory and practice. Nurse Education in Practice, 7(2007), 67-74.

Keogh, Johann. (2008). Professionalization of nursing: Development, difficulties, and solutions. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 25(2), 302-308.

Leadership Styles and Professional Growth

Leadership Styles It is highly likely that I will be able to develop high quality leadership traits with the passage of time. Values and personality: It is hard to become familiar with your personality because you cannot see the flaws in yourself. No matter how hard you try the positive aspects will come forward leaving the negative ones far behind. But observing yourself every once in a while is the key to success. It helps you change your personality according to the situation. If I had to put my values and my personality on a piece of paper I would begin it by telling about my behavior with my closed ones, my associates and especially with the ones I deal with on daily basis. I believe on taking everyone with me and not being competitive as competitiveness leads you nowhere. It might lead you to success somehow but leaves you with no friends….

Adair, John (2009) Effective Leadership London. Pan Macmillan.

Montana, Patrick J.; Bruce H. (2008). Management. Hauppauge, New York: Barron's Educational Series, Inc.

Schultz, Duane P. Schultz, Sydney Ellen (2010). Psychology and work today: an introduction to industrial and organizational psychology (10th ed. ed.). Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Prentice Hall.

Zaccaro, S.J. (2007). Trait-based perspectives of leadership. American Psychologist, 62, 6-16.

Learning Experience and Professional Growth Nursing Reflection Paper

eflective JournalI have accomplished various educational goals and professional development from various program components in this program. Different program elements are designed to accomplish different kinds of professional growth, as will be reflected herein. The engagement with concepts and theories of liberal education has resulted in their integration into my nursing practice. It involves the practice of culturally congruent care as espoused in the nursing theory. Integrating nursing theories and models is critical for developing a modern nursing practice that improves patient outcomes and contextualizes the nursing environment in different environments (Brooks et al., 2019). Consequently, I have developed a holistic understanding of the human experience across the life span and the unique needs for treatment at different levels of treatment.The program has facilitated the development of leadership skills, critical thinking, and teamwork skills that have facilitated the ability to coordinate care among interprofessional, deliver high-quality nursing care. I now….

References Institute of Medicine. (2011). The future of nursing: leading change, advancing health. National Academies Press.Horntvedt, M., Nordsteien, A., Fermann, T., & Severinsson, E. (2018). Strategies for teaching evidence-based practice in nursing education: a thematic literature review. BMC Medical Education, 18(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-018-1278-z WSNA. “Regulation And Accountability.” WSNA, 2022, https://www.wsna.org/nursing-practice/regulation-and-accountability .

Professional Association Professional Organization for Nursing in

Professional Association Professional Organization for Nursing In the past, a number of individuals inside every society started delivering care and nutrition for all those who had been struggling to look after themselves. Because these people became 'care specialists,' they started to express to other individuals the procedures that helped them and also to train other individuals as apprentices who would probably at some point continue their function. The advancement of contemporary nursing starting from some sort of vocation, towards the profession and discipline of nursing, started during the later part of the 1800s when Florence Nightingale stated her perspectives on the way nurses ought to be taught and schooled and just how patient care ought to be offered (Hegge, 2011). The very first schooling institution for nurses within the U.S. established during 1873. Two decades afterwards nursing school managers sensed the moment had arrived to interact as well as discuss their best practices….

American Nurses Association. (2010). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice, (2nd ed.). Silver Spring, MD: Nursesbooks.org.

American Nurses Association. (2009). Historical review of nursing and the ANA. Retrieved from www.nursingworld.org/FunctionalMenuCategories/AboutANA/History.

Bureau of Health Professions. (2011). The registered nurse population: Findings from the 2008 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses. Retrieved from http://bhpr.hrsa.gov/healthworkforce/rnsurvey2008.html.

Fowler, M. D .M. (Ed). (2008). Guide to the code of ethics for nurses: Interpretation and application. Silver Spring, MD: Nursesbooks.org.

Professional Counseling the Relevance of Counseling as

Professional Counseling The relevance of counseling as a helping profession cannot be overstated. This is more so the case taking into consideration the role counseling plays towards the facilitation of the development of not only an individual but also a family or even a group. Counseling as a Distinct Profession: The History and Philosophy of the Profession Marini and Stebnicki (2008) point out that although counseling as a term made its first appearance (in print) sometimes in the year 1931, the practice of the same had started earlier on. It is important to note that although the roots of counseling as a helping relationship can be traced to the early omanian and Greek times, the actual development of the counseling profession as we know it today largely started taking place in the late 1800s. In the words of Marini and Stebnicki (2008), "the origins of the counseling profession in the United States have….

AMHCA (n.d). American Mental Health Counselors Association: The Only Organization Working Exclusively for the Mental Health Counseling Profession. Retrieved October 14, 2012, from the American Mental Health Counselors Association website: http://www.amhca.org/default.aspx

ASCA (2012). American School Counselor Association. Retrieved October 14, 2012, from the American School Counselor Association website: http://www.schoolcounselor.org/index.asp

Blonna, R., Loschiavo, J. & Watter, D. (2011). Health Counseling: A Microskills Approach for Counselors, Educators, and School Nurses (2nd ed.). Sudbury, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.

Marini, I. & Stebnicki, M.A. (Eds.). (2008). The Professional Counselor's Desk Reference. New York, NY: Springer Publishing Company.

Professional Association

Professional Association Joining a professional association is crucial for nurse practitioners (NPs). It enables NPs to remain abreast with trends in their field of practice, access a network of peers, and expand professional networks. Joining a professional association is also important for certification, career assistance, as well as getting free or discounted rates for annual conventions, journal articles, and educational materials. Indeed, joining a professional association is essential for NP professional growth and development. One professional organization a NP may join is the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). The organization was formed in 2013 following the merger of the American College of Nurse Practitioners (established in 1995) and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (established in 1985). AANP is the largest professional organization for NP in the U.S., bringing together over 222,000 NPs from all nursing specialties (AANP, n.d.). The mission of the organization is to bring NPs together and empower….

American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) (n.d.). About AANP. Retrieved from: https://www.aanp.org/about-aanp

professional and personal development in education

Acting With Integrity and Fairness Reflecting on personal ethics encourages the educator to be self-aware and make improvements. Acting with integrity and fairness promotes a culture of accountability within the school because each teacher remains committed to taking responsibility and for collaborating with others to achieve common goals. Integrity is not just about conforming to “simplistic notions of right and wrong,” but making difficult decisions with multiple variables (Gorlewski, Gorlewski & Ramming, 2012, p. 1). Fairness implies the ability to weigh different variables, set priorities, and remain committed to student-centered goals. Minority viewpoints need to be heard, and a good leader applies transformational skills that empower others to have the courage to speak their truth. As a leader, I act with integrity when I remain true to my values and committed to the goals of the organization, setting aside my pride or need to be right in order to focus on….

Professional Dispositions and a Growth Mindset for Teachers

Applications in the ClassroomIn reflecting on the design elements of these courses, one component that resonates strongly with me is the creation of authentic learning tasks, which we experienced through the development of our personal educational philosophies and teaching websites. I believe this concept would be highly effective in my own school setting.In my high school physics classroom, I can incorporate the design of authentic learning tasks through a project-based learning (PBL) approach. A specific context could involve designing and conducting physics experiments to solve real-world problems. For instance, students could be tasked with creating energy-efficient models of homes, applying concepts of thermodynamics and energy conservation. This would not only involve theoretical understanding but also practical applications and problem-solving skills. Additionally, a platform could be created where students share their findings and reflections, fostering a learning community akin to our course website.The anticipated impact on my P-12 students would be….

Professional Settings and Improved Quality of Healthcare

Happy on the Job: Is Employment Satisfaction among Saudi Nurses necessary for working Suitably in the Professional Settings and Improved Quality of Healthcare. When it comes to Saudi Arabia, nursing plays a major role in any health care system. Many evidences support the quality of nursing care and patient outcome. Patient interact with nurses more than any other health profession. Improved level of job satisfaction among Saudi nurses will be significant in the delivery of quality healthcare to the patients. Variable such as appropriate wages, effective facilities, healthy environment, professionalism, suitable working hours, and successful management will improve the level of job satisfaction among Saudi nurses. The correlation between impaired job satisfaction levels of nurses will affect their performance in the clinical settings, which will certainly result in the poor quality of healthcare. Thus, job satisfaction among Saudi nurses is necessary for working appropriately in the professional settings and improved….

Ahsan, N., Abdullah, Z., Fie, D. G., & Alam, S. S. (2009). A study of job stress on job satisfaction among university staff in Malaysia: Empirical study. European journal of social sciences, 8(1), 121-131. Retrieved from ejournal.narotama.ac.id/files/A%20study%20of%20Job%20stress%20on%20Job%20Satisfaction%20among%20University.pdf

Al Juhani, A. M., & Kishk, N. A. (2006). Job satisfaction among primary health care physicians and nurses in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah. J Egypt Public Health Assoc, 81(3-4), 165-180. Retrieved from http://www.epha.eg.net/pdf/n3-4-2006/2-Nahla%20keshk-Job%20Satisfaction.pdf

Castle, N. G., Degenholtz, H., & Rosen, J. (2006). Determinants of staff job satisfaction of caregivers in two nursing homes in Pennsylvania. BMC Health Services Research, 6(1), 60. Retrieved from http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6963/6/60/

Cimino, J. J. (2011). High-quality, standard, controlled healthcare terminologies come of age. Methods of information in medicine, 50(2), 101. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3408886/

Professional Development in Early Childhood Education

California ECE CompetenciesThe California Early Childhood Education (ECE) Competencies are a set of 12 areas that provide a comprehensive understanding of the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed for early childhood education professionals to effectively support the development and learning of young children. The 12 areas are:1. Child Development and Learning: Understanding the physical, cognitive, language, social-emotional, and self-regulation development of young children.2. Families and Community: Understanding the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and needs of families and the role of community in supporting child development.3. Observation, Assessment, and Documentation: Understanding how to observe, document, and assess children\\\'s development and learning in order to plan appropriate experiences and environments.4. Curriculum and Learning Environment: Understanding how to design developmentally appropriate and inclusive curriculum and learning environments that support children\\\'s learning and development.5. Instruction and Professional Development: Understanding how to provide effective instruction and professional development to support children\\\'s learning and development.6. elationships and Interactions:….

ReferencesCalifornia ECE Competencies. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/cd/re/ececomps.asp Gomez, R. E., Kagan, S. L., & Fox, E. A. (2015). Professional development of the early childhood education teaching workforce in the United States: An overview. Professional Development in Education, 41(2), 169-186.

Professional Issues in Nursing Things That Surprised

Professional Issues in Nursing Things that surprised me The chapter on collective bargaining has some surprising aspects with respect to nursing. Collective bargaining has a number of difficulties while being implemented at nursing profession. Nurses have a number of predicaments that can easily bar them from accessing and delivering quality services to patients. In order to arrive at an equitable ground where success is determined and assessed by use of collective bargaining, nurses and any other worker should exist in groups of palatable ground of service. As indicted in chapter 17 of the book, nurses and many people working in organizations have difficulties in accessing policies that demonstrate their capabilities. Nurses encounter difficulties, which are often directed to their organizations. Nursing is a difficult activity that deserves a lot of sacrifice and affection from the people involved. Moreover, it is surprising to know that there are no direct segments within a health service….

Huston, C.J. (2010). Professional issues in nursing: Challenges & opportunities.

Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer Health/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Professional Knowledge and Abilities the American Psychological

Professional Knowledge and Abilities The American Psychological Association (APA) is a pivotal organization within the discipline of psychology. The influence of the APA on questions of standards and professionalism is unquestioned. A demonstration of this influence is the use of the APA standard for presenting papers and research work. Thus, the APA is the guardian for quality and integrity in the psychological landscape in America and much of the world. The APA has very specific organizational purposes and attempts to stay within the parameters of its organizational purposes. The main purpose of the APA is the advance of "psychology as a science, a profession and as a means of promoting health, education, and human welfare" (American Psychological Association, 2011). This purpose is achieved through the publication of journals, the establishing of best practices, the improvement of research approaches in psychology, and the real life application of research findings. The improvement of qualifications….

American psychological association. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.apa.org/about/index.aspx

Booth, A. & Bisztray, G. (1970). "Value orientations, member integration and participation in voluntary association activities" Administrative Science Quarterly 15(1): 39-45.

Professional Learning Application of Effective

The director of the assessment program must sit down with each teacher one-on-one as the teacher establishes goals for the year. These goals should be formal and written out, rather than merely established privately by the teacher. Then, at the end of the year, there can be a debriefing of the teacher participants, as well as an assessment of the growth of the class. This method of investing in teachers and allowing teacher more input into the structure of the assessment program on an ongoing basis is a transformational model in the manner in which it fosters change as a collective process. Teachers will also feel a greater sense of investment in a school which contributes to their growth as professional educators through mentoring. Despite the resistance shown by the teachers to goal-setting, the school feels that this approach is fair, given its focus upon improving teacher quality and its….

Fenstermacher, G.D., & Richardson, V. (2005, January). On making determinations of quality in teaching. The Teachers College Record, 107(1), 186-213.

Le Fevre, D.M. (2010). Changing TACK: Talking about change knowledge for professional learning'. In H. Timperley, & Parr, J. (Eds.), Weaving evidence, inquiry and standards to build better schools (pp. 71-92), Wellington, NZCER Press.

Santamaria, L. & Santamaria, a. (2012). Applied critical leadership in education. Routledge.

Professional Choirs in America The

" The collection of anthems, performed by the State Academic Choir of the Latvian choirs on a CD, is a one of a kind. Professional choirs have a long history and represent decades of work on the part of their conductors. A case in point is the Phoenix oys Choir. Even though the youth are only in the choir from ages 7 through 14, the conductor is able to create a top-notch professional singer from each of them. Since 1948, the Phoenix oys Choir has been one of these unique choirs which draws from a large repertoire of favorites, to tailor each performance under the direction of Dr. Harvey K. Smith, who led the choir for forty years, and Georg Stangelberger, who has led them since 1999. The 170 members perform shows throughout the world while the choir provides music education to the members.. It is not easy for small arts groups or….

Bibliography

Chicago Symphony Chorus (Choir), founded 1957, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A. found at http://www.bach-cantatas.com/Bio/CSC.htm

Golfo Alexopoulos, Stalin's Outcasts: Aliens, Citizens and the Soviet State, 1926-1936, Ithaca: Cornell University. 2003. p. 14.

Oron, Aryeh, "Chicago Symphony Chorus," CenterStage Chicago. Jul 2004. Website:

Professional Growth Plan Over the next few years, I would like to work on my personal and professional goals in order to prepare myself for a career in education. It…

Health - Nursing

Leadership Styles It is highly likely that I will be able to develop high quality leadership traits with the passage of time. Values and personality: It is hard to become familiar with…

Research Paper

Applications in the ClassroomIn reflecting on the design elements of these courses, one component that resonates strongly with me is the creation of authentic learning tasks, which we experienced…

Happy on the Job: Is Employment Satisfaction among Saudi Nurses necessary for working Suitably in the Professional Settings and Improved Quality of Healthcare. When it comes to Saudi Arabia,…

The director of the assessment program must sit down with each teacher one-on-one as the teacher establishes goals for the year. These goals should be formal and written…

" The collection of anthems, performed by the State Academic Choir of the Latvian choirs on a CD, is a one of a kind. Professional choirs have a long history…

My Professional Growth as an Education Major Essays

Throughout the numerous experiences I have had during my time at Benedictine University, I have learned different lessons and values that will prove important to my teaching career. The different courses, teachers, and schools that I had the opportunity to work with have helped me grow as an educator and provided me with the tools needed in order to be successful. My first observation experience was eye-opening. Upon my arrival to Providence Catholic High School, I only had basic knowledge about what it took to be an effective teacher. After working with many different teachers at this high school, it became evident that every teacher adopted their own style of teaching. I also began to understand that in order to be a wonderful …show more content…

I learned quickly that being an effective teacher is an art that takes time and devotion. Many times, teachers are not provided with the necessary materials in order to maintain the various learning styles in a classroom. It is up to the teacher to create an environment where students can succeed. This is a full time job, meaning that a teacher’s work is not done once they leave the school. A teacher must contribute a significant amount of time and effort in order to see positive results in the school and in his or her own classroom. After observing my cooperating teacher’s strategies and learning more about the profession, I knew that I was going in the right direction with my life. I took a significant amount of knowledge away from this experience and have continued to strive to be the type of educator that I was blessed to work with during this experience. . During my second preclinical experience at Westview Hills Middle School, I learned the importance of cooperation and collaboration among teachers at a school. I was able to observe team and department meetings during this experience. It became clear that it is important for teachers to work together in order to provide a positive atmosphere at a school and in a specific department. Although it became obvious that personalities and teaching styles were different throughout the school, the teachers still acted professionally and used each other as resources in

Personal and professional development Essay

“The most successful nations in the future will be those which develop high quality, skilled and motivated workforces and make good use of them.” Government White Paper (1994)

Diverse Family Experiences

In my experiences as an educator I have learned that the way teachers are taught and raised, effects the way they teach. But we must make choices not based on our past, but learn how to embrace our student’s unique perspective and set of experiences. There are several ways to make this connection:

Rhonda Haus: Student Analysis

Rhonda Haus started her career in the secondary school system where she has seen and been a part of many changes. She gave a unique perspective into Regina Public Schools and highlight the systems specific goals along with their successes and failures. Underlining it all was her message to put the students and to provide the best education for all kids. These goals were measurable and attainable. Kaylan Gazda spoke about the elementary school system and her experience in a variety of grades and schools. Her time in an experimental classroom and in another country provided many challenges. However, those challenges and obstacles made her a better teacher for her current job in a split classroom. Jordan McFarlan was able to provide insight in process of building a new program in a high school from the ground up. He was able to list challenges he faced and ways to respond to those challenges. Jesamy Unger presented what is was it is like to be a student taking education and the lessons she learned throughout her journey. She gave us useful advice for our field experiences and the tip that not everything you need to know about being a teacher will be taught in school. Every member of the panel highlighted you need to make relationships and networks with students, colleagues and even

Becoming An Urban Teacher

Since my first day of grade school I have dreamt of becoming a teacher. It was not until my junior year of high school that my dream grew into a passion for wanting to teaching in an urban environment. During a field tip to a Chicago Public School, I observed that the students where clearly in an underfunded and disadvantaged environment compared to my own experience in school. The moment that I saw that teacher earning respect and influencing her students, it was obvious to me that these teachers were the most influential factor in the classroom. The teacher’s attitude and ability to influence was more important than any other resource.

Collaboration Between Teachers And Teachers

Collaboration between teachers is a key component to professional development that will lead to higher student achievement. There is a need for schools to set up time for teachers to be able to collaborate together. This allows for teachers to help each other, matchup content, teach each other new and best practices, troubleshoot student issues just to name a few of the areas that collaboration time can help foster within a school. The key is to build time for teachers to be able to collaborate during the school day or week. This collaboration time needs to be between grade levels, departments, and cross curricular when needed. For many schools this is an afterthought to the school schedule or a fleeting thought after the master schedule is completed. A principal needs to keep an open mind to any strategy that will enable the teachers to be able to collaborate for the good of the students and the school.

Benefits Of Overarching SMART Goals

“Educators have known for quite some time that building a collaborative culture in which people work together interdependently to fulfill their shared purpose and achieve their common goals is an essential strategy for sustained school improvement,” (DuFour & DuFour, 2008, p. 173). ISLLC Standard 1, working toward a shared vision is an exemplified in this process; and Sorenson & Goldsmith note that encouraging people to collaborate is a one of the ten most wanted strategies for school a positive school culture (p.

My Personal Philosophy of Education Essay

I am attending Concord College to further my education. After graduating with an Elementary Education Degree, I would like to teach in an elementary school in Southern West Virginia. Preferably, I would like to teach in a kindergarten environment. While teaching I plan to further my career with a Master’s degree. I would like to be able to reach those children that aren’t as fortunate as others. As a teacher I will not only teach the children, but they in turn, will teach me. Education is one of the most important aspects to the success of the country. It is important for everyone to feel a part of that success; therefore, I feel strongly about teaching students to succeed.

Examples Of Critical Incident Of A Teacher

As a student, I have been inspired by a few teachers at both my primary and secondary schools to seek an interest in the teaching profession. One year after finishing secondary school where I obtained most of my passes I took some time to reflect back on my twelve years at school and the few critical incidents that have cultivated my thinking about teachers and teaching. Some incidents were positive and others negative, but all assisted to shape the type of teacher I want to be in the future! A few critical incidents that shaped my thinking were the first time I came first in a class, the evening I approached the lackadaisical teacher and the day where I was escorted out of class.

My Path Of Becoming A Teacher

Ideally, when I graduate, I would like to enter the credential program at Cal Poly Pomona. As an English Education major, I feel like this is the next logical step for me as I seek to move forward on my path of becoming a teacher. The opportunities that await me in the credential program truly excite me because I have always found my studies of English Education to be very rewarding and purposeful. I have found this to be especially true now because I am currently in the process of conducting observation hours at local high schools in Pomona as part of my English Education curriculum. When I am in the classroom, I immediately feel a sense of joy, purpose, and productivity. Outside of the classroom, I do have experience teaching as a leader for a club on campus; I am a Woman’s Bible Study Leader for Cal Poly Cru and I have found this experience of teaching college students to be the most exciting, challenging, and rewarding experience I have ever had the pleasure of being a part of. It can become overwhelming as doubts and deadlines tend to sneak in on me from time to time, but I know that being a teacher is worth every ounce of pressure because of the positive impact that a teacher has the ability to make on a student. There is an incredible statistic that states that “On average a teacher affects 3,000 children over the course of their career” (Bickley). This opportunity stirs my heart like nothing else because when I was in high school, I had an incredible teacher named

The Values And Beliefs Of The Staff

After interviewing and survey teachers at the elementary school a couple of distant items came up. Overall the teachers agreed that as a building there is a strong sense of unity and teamwork. In the majority of results teachers commented that the staff is always willing to help each other. The data behind one survey question backed up this feeling. 4.6/5 teachers felt that teachers in their building were always willing to help out when there was a problem. This theme shows that the values and beliefs of the staff are strong in family unity. They consider each staff member to be part of the family and treat them as such. In addition to being a family, teachers commented that the building administration is supportive of the teachers and did a great job praising them in their students progress. Questions on the survey about building leadership scored the second highest overall with an average of exceeds expectations to the following statement, “Leaders value teachers ideas” and “Leaders in the school trust the professional judgements of teachers.” Three issues that did arise were disconnect between grade level groups, consistent expectations, and teacher development. First the idea that even though they were strong as a family there seemed to be a disconnect between the primary (Kindergarten-second grade) and the elementary (third-fifth grade) seemed to come up multiple times. This is concerning as it seemed as a whole that they felt that it was a strong family but

The Importance Of Education In Education

Teachers analogous to every other human desire for integration, collaboration and kinship, yet, encounter confinement and segregation. Ingersoll stated in 2012, “although elementary and secondary teaching involves intensive interaction with youngsters, the work of teachers is done largely in isolation from colleagues. This isolation can be especially difficult for newcomers, who, upon accepting a position in a school, are frequently left to succeed or fail on their own within the confines of their classrooms—often likened to a “lost at sea” or “sink or swim” experience”.(http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2012/05/16/kappan_ingersoll.h31.html). Veteran teachers consistently promulgated to me early in my career that I needed to earn my stripes to acquire credibility in the education profession. Morosely, those words pushed me towards isolation rather than collaboration. Wong states, “ New teachers want more than a job. They want to experience success. They want to contribute to a group. They want to make a difference. The best induction programs provide connection because they are structured within learning communities where new and veteran teachers interact and treat each other with respect and are valued for their respective contributions”. (p. 47) Similar to students, teachers need their administration to provide a working environment that includes structure, safety, compassion and trust from the onset.

The Importance Of An Ideal Environment For Working Together With Students

“Teamwork fuels group spirit, develops process skills that help teachers interact in more productive ways, and fosters a more intellectual atmosphere.” (Maeroff, 1993).

Autobiography Of A Teacher

As children, we absorb information and learn from experiences that mold us into who we are. Many individuals impact a child’s life, but the most powerful and influential role lies in a devoted teacher, a teacher provides growth to students as a gardener would to a garden of flowers. Each child can bloom into a thriving flower so long as you water their garden with optimism, love, patience, and guidance. Throughout my educational experiences I was lucky enough to have educators who poured their knowledge and optimism into me, and now I would like to reciprocate that back to students who are in the position I was once in. Balancing life and school is hard enough for a student, but a powerful and caring teacher can steer you in the right direction. In this autobiography you will read about my educational background, experiences that influenced my decision to become a teacher, and what I believe the role of a teacher should be in a student’s life.

Essay on My Ideal Teacher

When I think about teachers that I have had in the past, several different ones come to my mind. Each of these educators stands out in my mind for a variety of diverse reasons. Whether it is their sense of humor, their tactfulness, their love of the subject matter, their fanatical and sporadic behavior, or their yearning to be childish themselves, I can still remember at least one quality of every teacher I have ever encountered. Every one of these teachers conveyed subject material to their students just as they were educated and employed to do. However, I trust that every professional in the world has an abundance of opportunity for improvement; teachers could discover and improve themselves merely by having

Professional Development as a Teacher: Personal Reflection Essay

1 Works Cited

Being a teacher is not an easy task as many people could think. To be a teacher does not only imply to know the subject to be taught, it also includes being willing to constantly improve oneself integrally, as much as updating the resources and materials one uses in teaching. Reflecting and analyzing over and over again the best way to teach to learn and how to make students to extend what has been learned. The many hours spend in the classroom will never be enough to plan lessons, prepare materials, review pupils tasks and exams, as well, all the administrative requirements one has to cover for whatever institution we work. Besides all this a good teacher, a professional one, will have to find the time to keep preparing to improve

Admission Essay
Statement of Purpose Editing
Personal Statement Editing
Recommendation Letter
Motivation Letter
Cover Letter
Supplemental Essay
Letter of Continued Interest
Scholarship Essay
Role Model Essay
Our Editors
College Admission Essay Examples
College Cover Letter Examples
College Personal Statement Examples
Graduate Personal Statement Examples
Graduate Statement of Purpose Examples
MBA Essay Examples
MBA Personal Statement Examples
MBA Resume Examples
MBA Recommendation Letter Examples
Medical School Personal Statement Examples
Medical School Recommendation Letter Examples
Pricing Plans
Public Health
Dissertation
Research Paper
Thesis Editing
Academic Editing
Motivation letter
Letter of Recommendation
Personal Statement
Statement of Purpose

Personal Growth Essay | A Winning Essay Writing Strategy

EssayEdge > Blog > Personal Growth Essay | A Winning Essay Writing Strategy

Personal Growth. Perhaps this topic is the most popular one since it delves into the heart of what the admissions essay is all about: helping the college gain better insight into an applicant’s personality and character. Some schools ask targeted questions — “What was the most challenging event you have ever faced, and how have you grown from it?” — while others leave the topic open: “Describe an event that has had great meaning for you. Explain why and how it has affected you.”

One of the most successful strategies is to use a past event as a lens through which you can assess who you were and the person you became, how you have grown and changed, your transformation. Most children are curious, but were you the one who asked your teacher what caused the change of seasons of the year and then created a solar system model and explained the concept to your classmates? Though you may think that your topic needs to be more grandiose, that is not necessary for an essay to be effective. Instead, success lies in painting an accurate and vivid picture of yourself — one that will show admissions officers that you have much to offer their school.

The most important advice we can give is to be honest, refrain from using clichés, and show maturity. College represents a radical change from high school, so you want your reader to realize that you are more than ready to take the next major step in your life.

Sample Essays And Comments

Well Done Personal Growth Essay
Poorly Done Personal Growth Essay

Next: Accomplishments

Need help? Check out EssayEdge editing services:

Writing a memorable Professional Experience Essay

W hile your MBA application resume will provide a summary of your education, jobs, and community leadership, you will likely have an opportunity to expand on your career in your MBA essays.

However, an essay about your work experience is not merely a list of roles and responsibilities. A Professional Experience Essay is a narrative essay that should bring the accomplishments summarized on your resume to life.

An effective Professional Experience Essay will give the Admissions Committee a sense of the career decisions you’ve made, your most significant achievements in each chapter of your career, and the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired on your career journey. This “walk through your resume” in essay form is your opportunity to provide admissions officers with evidence that you’ve made exceptional career progress and that you have clear potential for future advancement.

This article provides you with the insights and tools you need to build a powerful Professional Experience Essay.

First, we’ll talk about why some MBA application forms ask you to write about your career history, and we’ll share the characteristics of a great answer to this type of essay question.

Second, we’ll provide you with a set of building blocks for crafting a unique and robust essay that summarizes your career history.

Finally, we analyze a sample Professional Experience Essay to illustrate the principles we have taught you throughout this article.

How to Score Top Marks on Professional Experience Essays

You can think of this essay as an executive summary of your career thus far. You are providing the readers in the MBA admissions office with a holistic overview of your work experience, the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired, and how you’ve progressed in your career thus far. So what is the Admissions Committee looking for in an effective Professional Experience Essay?

To score top marks with your essay, you’ll need to provide evidence of distinguished academic and career performance in the top 10% of your peer group and demonstrate your potential for future advancement.

A well-designed essay recounting your professional history accomplishes multiple aims in a minimal amount of space. Your career story must be coherent, concise, and cohesive – it’s not unusual to have to discuss your professional history in 200 words or less as part of a multi-part essay question. If you have a limited number of words to work with, what should you focus on and what should you leave out?

To solve that riddle, we recommend that before trying to draft this essay, you should first define your career goals . Clarity about where you want to go in your career will help you select which elements of your past work experience to showcase in this essay.

That is because a successful Professional Experience Essay will connect the dots between your professional history and your career aspirations. You want your essay to present evidence that you are well-prepared for the post-MBA job you plan to pursue. Demonstrate to the admissions committee you have momentum in the direction of your ultimate career goals.

Of course, you also want to highlight the work experiences and qualities that business schools value , such as leadership, teamwork, and creativity.

Additionally, you want to give the reader a sense that your value to your employers has grown over time. Your overarching goal is to convince the Admissions Committee that you are well-prepared for an MBA and that you have interesting experiences and lessons to contribute to an MBA community.

Finally, let’s not forget that admissions officers will be assessing your “employability” and how well your career story might play with future recruiters.

How can you accomplish all of those goals in a compact and engaging essay? Follow the steps in the next section to construct an effective Professional Experience Essay. To illustrate our guidance, we’ll show you how “Adam,” a private equity analyst applying for an MBA, constructed the content building blocks for his Professional Experience Essay.

Free MBA Essay Writing Course

Please enter your email below to gain 30 days of free access to our MBA Essay Writing course. Learn about the five most frequently asked MBA application essay questions and access our brainstorming tools and sample essays.

Telling the Story of Your Career

Like a book, your career story should be organized into chapters. Typically a chapter will begin with your decision to take a new job, proceed to the most significant challenges and achievements in that role, and end with a brief recounting of your learning and growth. The bridge to the next chapter summarizes the reasons you decided to take the next step in your career journey.

Your first step in crafting your Professional Experience Essay is to identify the “chapters” of your career.

1. Identify and Outline the Chapters of Your Career Story

Building Block Question: What are the major milestones in your career so far?

Start by asking yourself, “What are the major milestones in my career so far?”. Answering this question will help you to decide how to divide your career into phases. Changing companies is an obvious chapter break, but a step forward inside the same company, such as a promotion, a major increase in responsibility, or a high-profile project, might also mark a new phase in your career. Keep in mind that you won’t have time to detail each stage of your career in an essay – even if a chapter of your career lasted two or three years, you’ll need to summarize the most crucial information in that chapter in a few sentences.

Example: Our fictional applicant, Adam, has two significant chapters to highlight in his Professional Experience Essay.

Chapter 1 was graduating from college and accepting a 2-year analyst position at Deutsche Bank.

In Chapter 2, he took a job as an analyst at a Private Equity shop called Astrix Partners, where he worked for 18 months.

For the rest of this example, we’ll focus only on Chapter 2 of Adam’s Career Story, although Adam would need to write both chapters for his essay.

Once the chapters of your career are clear to you, you should outline each chapter’s contents. Each chapter in your career story should have a beginning, middle, and end. The beginning of one chapter (and possibly the end of the last) is usually denoted by your decision to take or leave a role. This leads us to the next step in building your Professional Experience Essay: explaining the professional decisions you have made in your career.

2. Explain the Reason(s) for Your Career Decision

Building Block Question: Why did you take the job or accept the new assignment?

For outlining purposes, each chapter begins with your career decision: “Why did you leave your old job and take the new one?” Admissions Officers can see what jobs you have had by reviewing your resume. In your Professional Experience Essay, you will explain why you decided to take the job or volunteer for a big assignment.

Ideally, each new chapter in your career was initiated by you and signified a step forward in your career action plan. Even if the career change was unplanned and outside of your control, that’s okay. For example, if you were laid off, focus on the positives instead of hiding the reality of what happened – it’s a chance to show resilience and that you can land on your feet after a setback.

Example: Adam plans to explain that he decided to leave Deutsche Bank and join Astrix because the move fit in with his long-term career plan to become a private equity investor.

3. Discuss Significant Challenges and Accomplishments

Building Block Question: What was the most significant challenge you faced? What did you achieve that you are most proud of?

The next building blocks are the significant challenges and accomplishments during this chapter of your career. Admissions officers enjoy hearing about the difficulties you overcame in this chapter in your career and about some standout moments where you made a real impact on your organization.

Identify the most significant challenge you faced and ask yourself, “What did I achieve that I am most proud of?”. In your outline, jot down quick examples of any standout moments and exceptional achievements at each juncture of your career.

Example: In terms of significant achievements, Adam plans to highlight sourcing a private equity deal, which is quite rare for a young PE analyst.

4. Share Major Areas of Growth

Building Block Question: How did you grow, and what did you learn in this phase of your career? How did you progress?

The fourth building block is your personal and professional growth. You might share knowledge acquired, lessons learned, or skills developed. Often, the most important and interesting things from an Admissions Officer’s point of view are what you’ve learned about yourself in your career so far: a new talent discovered, the emergence of new career interests, or clarity on an existing one.

Your objective is to highlight the skills, knowledge, and experiences from each chapter of your career that will contribute to your future success. By doing so, you ensure that your Professional Experience Essay will provide convincing evidence that you have already made significant progress on your future career path.

Example: Adam’s growth is relatively straightforward. He advanced beyond the transactional activities he performed as an investment banker and is now developing the strategic point of view required of a private equity investor.

After you’ve generated content for all of your career story chapters, take a step back and create a Lead for your story. A Lead is the story’s central message, the executive summary that communicates what your Professional Experience Story is about. If you had to sum up your career in a sentence or two, how would you do it? Some people call the central message of the career story your “elevator speech” – imagine that you had to convey the essence of your career story to an admissions officer during a short elevator ride.

Example: The lead for Adam’s career story is that he’s progressed from a green analyst to experienced private equity professional.

Below you will find an excerpt from the essay that resulted when Adam assembled his content building blocks.

Professional Experience Essay Sample

I was a quantitative economics major at Michigan. Although my education provided me with an excellent analytical foundation, I barely knew an income statement from a balance sheet the day I graduated from college.

(CAREER DECISION) I pursued a position in Deutsche Bank’s leveraged finance group, which provided an excellent foundation for a career in finance.

(CAREER GROWTH) Those two years with Deutsche Bank are where I learned the language of finance and the mechanics of investment banking.

(ACHIEVEMENT) Even amidst lay-offs in other areas of the firm, I was fortunate to be the only one in my start group offered a 3rd-year analyst job

(CAREER DECISION) The 3rd-year offer was tempting. I loved the firm and my team, but I also had an attractive offer with Astrix Partners, a private equity firm with $2.0 billion in assets. I have a real passion for investing. Since junior high, I’ve been trading stocks, and I started my subscription to the Wall Street Journal on my 13th birthday. What’s wild is that I’m now working on the kinds of deals that I used to read about in the Journal.

(ACHIEVEMENT) I really enjoy working on Astrix deals because we have unbelievable access to information and expertise — I talk to industry experts and read phenomenal research reports. I’ve found that I’m good at asking and answering questions like, “What do we have to believe about this company’s position in the marketplace before we would be willing to invest?”

(ACHIEVEMENT) Six months ago, through a family friend, I even helped us source a deal with an optical drive manufacturer in Boston and presented the idea to our investment committee… (example continues)

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing particularly exotic about Adam’s career journey. He has followed a more or less typical path from tier-one investment banking into a private equity shop. Nevertheless, by carefully outlining his professional history, he created a robust Professional Experience Essay for his MBA application.

Although his career path is relatively traditional, he’s managed to connect the dots between his professional experiences and the capabilities he’ll need in the future. By doing so, he’s able to represent his “employability” in the private-equity field post-MBA. Adam’s Professional Experience Story is compelling precisely because it will provide admissions officers with evidence that he’s made significant progress towards his future career goals.

If your Professional Experience Essay indicates professional growth and charts your progress toward your future career goals, then you will instill admissions officers with confidence that you have the skills, knowledge, and relationships necessary to succeed in your career post-MBA.

Essays About Personal Growth: Top 5 Examples and 8 Prompts

If you’re writing essays about personal growth, our guide’s article examples and prompts will help stimulate your creative thinking.

Personal growth is looking at ways to improve yourself mentally, socially, spiritually, emotionally or physically. It is a process where we envision a better version of ourselves and strive to realize that ideal self. Personal growth demands the setting of personal goals and ensuring routine progress. The work toward personal development involves a great deal of hard work and discipline as we push our existing skills and strengths to a higher boundary while reducing our underlying weaknesses.

Read our essay examples and prompts below to help you produce a rich and creative essay about personal growth.

5 Essay Examples About Personal Growth

1. is it really too late to learn new skills by margaret talbot, 2. i’ve completed hundreds of 30-day challenges. here’s what i’ve learned by tara nicholle-nelson, 3. i was a self-help guru. here’s why you shouldn’t listen to people like me by michelle goodman, 4. how to craft a personal development plan that inspires meaningful results by scott jeffrey, 5. personal development and the power of feedback by emily marsh, 10 prompts on essays about personal growth, 1. why is personal growth important, 2. take up a personal growth challenge, 3. your personal growth journey, 4. personal growth among successful people, 5. personal growth for leaders , 6. personal growth at work, 7. best personal growth books, 8. strong motivation for achieving personal growth.

“… [H]e decides to throw himself into acquiring five new skills. (That’s his term, though I started to think of these skills as “accomplishments” in the way that marriageable Jane Austen heroines have them, talents that make a long evening pass more agreeably, that can turn a person into more engaging company, for herself as much as for others.)

Learning new things may not be a cup of tea for those in their middle ages. To get out of established expertise, be looked down on as a novice, and push the brain to work double time may even be a dreary and intimidating process. , But Journalist Tom Vanderbilt, award-winning writers, and Nobel Prize recipients prove that satisfaction is worth it for personal growth and fulfillment.

“I think of Challenges as self-directed projects to change my behavior or spark some personal growth or development I’m clear that I’d like to have. Sometimes I want a mindset shift or want to make (or break) a habit, or I just have a sort of big project I want to sprint to finish…”

Why are we so drawn to self-imposed challenges? For one, it’s a competition only between you and yourself, giving room for flexibility in the rules you set. It provides structure to your goals, chunks your bigger long-term self-growth goals into gradual and doable daily tasks, provokes a sense of self-accountability, and helps you focus your energy on what matters most.

“Apparently, I learned, gurus are people too, even gurus lining the self-help shelves of friendly neighborhood bookstores. They aren’t infallible, all-knowing oracles above worrying about their generous muffin top or widening backside. They are businesspeople — businesspeople with books, keynotes, and openings in their consulting practice to peddle”

From abhorring gurus to becoming one and then hating the industry much more — this is the story of a self-help book author who realizes it was herself who needed the most advice for personal growth. But, as she creates a facade of a well-balanced life to establish her credibility, things turn dark, almost costing her life.

“When entertainment, distraction, and workaholism consume our attention, something doesn’t feel right within us… To have a full and meaningful life requires us to open to more dimensions of ourselves. And a Personal Development Plan can help us do just that.”

Everyone strives for personal growth. But once we jump at it, some wrong ingredients may spoil the sense of fulfillment we expect. The right process involves navigating your potential, creating a larger vision, selecting areas to focus on, setting your schedule, and monitoring your progress. You might also be interested in these essays about motivation .

“Without feedback, we would learn very little about ourselves, in or out of work. The feedback process is like holding a mirror up to yourself; that’s why it can be uncomfortable at times. You have to be prepared to listen to and acknowledge whatever reveals itself.”

Hearing feedback is critical to personal growth. Negative feedback is constructive in losing our bad habits. However, purely positive feedback is non-progressive and dangerous if we only seek to affirm how we regard ourselves.

We can never be perfect. But we can always progress. In your essay, explain why nurturing a growth mindset in life is essential. What long-term benefits can you reap daily from wanting to be a better person? How does it affect the mind, body, and overall wellness? Answer these while citing studies that outline the essence of personal growth.

Essays About Personal Growth: Take up a personal growth challenge

Take up any challenge you find exciting and feel up to. Then, write about your experience. If successful, offer tips to your readers on how one can prepare their body, mind, and discipline to stick to the goals. If you did not complete the challenge, don’t worry! Your failure can still be a learning experience that contributes to personal growth and is worth writing about. In addition, you can add what areas of yourself you would like to improve on if you ever take up the challenge again.

Talk about your goals and your daily efforts to reach this goal. It could relate to acing a test, your sports team winning or professional success. Of course, there will be a handful of challenges in any journey toward a goal. What were the obstacles and distractions that tried to keep you off track? Share these with your readers and how you strived or are striving to conquer them.

When you see people already at the height of their careers, you’ll find some continuing to walk out of their comfort zones and reach for the next higher mountain. For this essay, explain the connection between striving for personal growth and success. Then, provide a list of everyday habits among successful people that others could consider adopting.

Leaders must adapt and address problems efficiently and decisively as they move through a fast-changing landscape. Elaborate on how the pursuit of personal growth helps leaders deliver in their enormous role in organizations, companies, and communities.

If you firmly believe that growth at work translates to personal growth, it would be less hard for you to get by at work. But this gets a bit more complex if your feel that your work is no longer satisfying your self-actualization needs and even limiting you. For this prompt, help your readers determine if it’s time to quit their job and continue their journey for personal growth elsewhere. If you want to address companies, offer recommendations enabling their employees to grow and have a vision for themselves. You may also suggest how managers can keep an open line of communication so that personnel can relay their self-development needs.

Essays About Personal Growth: Best personal growth books

We all have that book that has given us a new kind of energy that made us feel and believe we can do anything if we put our heart into it. We keep these books close to our hearts, serving as a reminder of other bigger goals ahead of us when the going gets tough. Create a numbered list of the books that have captivated you and helped you realize your potential. Talk about the best quotes that struck the chord and the thought racing in your mind while reading them.

When you tap onto your inherent and external motivation for a much-needed push, it may be easier to turn bad moments into something that helps advance personal development plans. For your essay, explain how motivation can be a bridge to get you to your growth goals.

If you’re still stuck, check out our general resource of essay writing topics .

For help with this topic, read our guide explaining what is persuasive writing ?

Yna Lim is a communications specialist currently focused on policy advocacy. In her eight years of writing, she has been exposed to a variety of topics, including cryptocurrency, web hosting, agriculture, marketing, intellectual property, data privacy and international trade. A former journalist in one of the top business papers in the Philippines, Yna is currently pursuing her master's degree in economics and business.

View all posts

Undergraduate
High School
Architecture
American History
Asian History
Antique Literature
American Literature
Asian Literature
Classic English Literature
World Literature
Creative Writing
Linguistics
Criminal Justice
Legal Issues
Anthropology
Archaeology
Political Science
World Affairs
African-American Studies
East European Studies
Latin-American Studies
Native-American Studies
West European Studies
Family and Consumer Science
Social Issues
Women and Gender Studies
Social Work
Natural Sciences
Pharmacology
Earth science
Agriculture
Agricultural Studies
Computer Science
IT Management
Mathematics
Investments
Engineering and Technology
Engineering
Aeronautics
Medicine and Health
Alternative Medicine
Communications and Media
Advertising
Communication Strategies
Public Relations
Educational Theories
Teacher's Career
Chicago/Turabian
Company Analysis
Education Theories
Shakespeare
Canadian Studies
Food Safety
Relation of Global Warming and Extreme Weather Condition
Movie Review
Admission Essay
Annotated Bibliography
Application Essay
Article Critique
Article Review
Article Writing
Book Review
Business Plan
Business Proposal
Capstone Project
Cover Letter
Creative Essay
Dissertation
Dissertation - Abstract
Dissertation - Conclusion
Dissertation - Discussion
Dissertation - Hypothesis
Dissertation - Introduction
Dissertation - Literature
Dissertation - Methodology
Dissertation - Results
GCSE Coursework
Grant Proposal
Marketing Plan
Multiple Choice Quiz
Personal Statement
Power Point Presentation
Power Point Presentation With Speaker Notes
Questionnaire
Reaction Paper

Research Paper

Research Proposal
SWOT analysis
Thesis Paper
Online Quiz
Literature Review
Movie Analysis
Statistics problem
Math Problem
All papers examples
How It Works
Money Back Policy
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
We Are Hiring

Professional Development at Work, Essay Example

Pages: 7

Words: 2022

Hire a Writer for Custom Essay

Use 10% Off Discount: "custom10" in 1 Click 👇

You are free to use it as an inspiration or a source for your own work.

Introduction and Thesis Statement Development

Providing people with career and professional development opportunities is an effective way of employee motivation. According to Stone et al. (2008), autonomous motivation has a great positive impact on employee satisfaction, retention, performance, and motivation. The below report will examine what the most successful ways of motivating and empowering workers are in an international organization.

The thesis statement the author would like to examine is as follows:

Employees who are provided with a personal professional development plan are more likely to participate in process improvement projects within the organization, and will feel a stronger connection with the company than those who are not given the opportunity to pursue their professional goals within the organization.

Literature Review and Research Development

Several authors talk about empowering employees through providing them with professional development opportunities. The Cornerstone project (2010) created an overview on the impact of employee empowerment. According to the authors, an empowered employee would be provided with the opportunity to do what they do best every day, while the workplace encourages their development, talks about their progress, and provides them with growth and learning opportunities.

The benefits of empowering employees through training and lifelong learning projects are evident for employees, but they can also provide several advantages for companies. The Cornerstone project (2010) lists some of the major competitive advantages gained by companies encouraging professional development of employees. First, a workplace where employees are empowered is more engaged. Quoting related statistics, the authors state that “companies with higher-than-average employee engagement also had 27 percent higher profits, 50 percent higher sales and 50 percent higher customer loyalty” (Cornerstone, 2010, p. 5). Further, studies show that workplaces where employees are encouraged to grow and learn have a higher overall performance and productivity level. Finally, at empowered workplaces, employees’ personal goals are more aligned with the organization’s vision and mission, and companies achieve a 144 percent increase in their ability to plan for future talent needs.

From the theoretical point of view, several frameworks can be applied to investigate the relationship between employee development and engagement. The Self-Determination Theory (SDT) states that people are more encouraged to do better if they feel like their values and goals are understood by the organization (Ryan & Deci, 2000). Therefore, instead of using the “carrot and stick” type of motivation, companies should start listening to employees, understanding their preferences, values, and aspirations, in order to support them in personal and professional growth. This approach can also lead to intrinsic motivation, described as a type of engagement between the company and the employee where “employees work for passion, pleasure, and interest. In contrast, integrated regulation occurs when people fully endorse the importance of the work even though they may not find it interesting” (Stone et al., 2008).

Goodall et al. (2005) evaluated the impact of continuing professional development in schools on performance and motivation. Based on the results of the large scale survey carried out in the United Kingdom, the authors created some important recommendations for professionals creating professional development plans on an individual basis. First of all, evaluation of performance and training needs is crucial to delivering the most appropriate training schedule and materials. The impact of learning on motivation and job performance should also be measured by employers. Finally, the authors found that there was a need for differentiating learning and development programs, based on roles, personal needs, and background.

Literature Evaluation and Suggestions

Based on the above review of literature, it is evident that creating personal professional development plans for employees would have a positive impact on their motivation and engagement level. It is recommended by the sources analyzed that it is important to match the training provided to the needs of individuals, and listen to workers. Therefore, the best practices of creating a professional development plan at work should focus on collaboration, discussion, monitoring, and evaluation.

Several frameworks for motivating employees through training and career development opportunities have been created by researchers and HR professionals in the past few years. Zahra et al. (2014) found that “ongoing training of current employees is as important as of new employees; it helps them to adapt their daily routine work according to rapidly changing job requirements and to improve their performance on current job and prepares them for an intended job”. Reviewing several frameworks related to professional development, the most customizable and democratic model was found to be Bramley’s Individual Model of Training. This framework’s strength lies in its complexity and the individual consideration. Suitable training is offered on an individual basis, after assessing experience, competencies, and training needs. Through enhancing individual performance of employees, companies can benefit from a relevant and motivated talent pool that they can turn into organizational competencies and competitive advantages.

The main steps of professional development frameworks at the workplace, however, are similar. The process starts with the training needs analysis (including training gap analysis), followed by designing the different phases of training and setting clear objectives. All models also emphasize the need for evaluating the program’s effectiveness, completing employee interviews, and monitoring progress.

It is recommended that companies planning to design professional development programs create individual plans based on the following elements of design: gap identification, training needs assessment, goal and objective setting based on discussions with employees, creating a training program design, hiring trainers or purchasing programs, creating methods of motivation, and providing ongoing support. It is also important to reward trainee employees based on their achievement, and monitor the effectiveness in order to initiate changes that would make the professional development plan more rewarding for both the company and the employee.

It is important based on the findings of the above research that companies encourage employees in achieving their personal and professional goals. Employees seeking learning and development opportunities will face two options. They could stay within their current roles and settle for less, or look for another company that would help them become the professional they would like to be. If the company does not encourage learning at the workplace, retention and employee motivation, as well as work morale will be negatively affected. This is the reason why companies should work together with their employees to foster their aspirations and provide career development opportunities. This will increase employee engagement, help aligning individual goals with the organization’s culture, increase productivity, and employee motivation. As a result, companies will gain skills through employee training that are necessary for facing the challenges of today’s highly competitive business environment.

Career and Professional Development Plan

In the retail environment of the company FootLocker, it is important that employees remain connected to the brand and motivated. It has been found that employee motivation has a positive impact on job performance and customer service. Therefore, it is recommended that FootLocker’s local store implements a professional development program that suits employees’ and the company’s needs.

There are several training methods the company could implement: co-funding college education and certificate programs, online learning, coaching and classroom based customer service lessons, or on-job professional development. Before deciding on which method to choose, the company will need to identify training needs of the company, and find the relevant available courses to meet the expectations.

In the retail environment, training needs are generally concentrated around customer service, time management, communication, and managing people. FootLocker has recently realized that filling internal managerial roles makes the organization more effective, and employees who used to work alongside with their manager are more likely to accept their authority and communicate openly with them. This results in a better team performance, better alignment of goals, and a greater level of understanding among team members. It is also proven that filling upcoming managerial roles internally through fostering talent would increase employee motivation and make workers feel appreciated and respected.

Further, it is important that training programs are designed to meet current and future job requirements and are relevant to employees’ roles. In FootLocker, most personnel needs communication and interpersonal skills on a daily basis. They, on the other hand, also need to adapt to changes within the market and in the company. Most employees face diversity at work and need to deal with culturally diverse customers. Therefore, training programs based on sales, communication, empathy, diversity, inclusion, and team building would benefit the company in particular.

Needs Assessment

It is recommended that the company focuses on individual training needs based on regular appraisal results and discussions with line managers. In order to assess individual training needs, there is a need to implement an effective tool for employee skills evaluation. Performance reviews should include career planning and development sections, and self-evaluation forms as well, in order to provide workers with recognition of prior learning. Without the company knowing about the current skill set and education level of employees, it would not be able to tailor professional development programs to individual needs. An employee training and training needs questionnaire needs to be developed to help line managers develop training plans.

Training Gaps Assessment

This assessment would not only focus on the existing skills of employees and competencies needed for doing the job, but also review the company’s current practices related to new employees’ training and coaching. This way, the company can identify training goals and gaps that exist within FootLocker, and adjust the basic employee integration processes to the needs of the company, market, and employees. Training gaps assessment needs to be completed on a regular basis, as the competitive landscape of the retail industry is in constant change.

Creating Learning Management Programs

It has been identified that college education programs are not relevant to the roles in FootLocker, therefore, skills development and customer service courses need to be assessed and selected based on the completed needs and gap assessment. Today, there are many online certification modules available through interactive classrooms and online learning. These cost-effective courses are able to help employees do their jobs better, and improve their leadership skills. Two types of training programs need to be created: one for employees willing to remain in the retail environment, and dealing with customers on a day-to-day basis, and one for team members planning to pursue a career in management.

Training Program Development

The simplest and most flexible way of developing training programs within the company is to create a list of modules that are available based on previous training and qualifications, role, and career goals. All modules could be combined on an individual basis, therefore, training would be made suitable for individual needs. The training program modules should be covering the following aspects of current and future roles:

diversity and inclusion training
understanding customer needs
effective communication
team building
leading change
brainstorming
personal target management
motivating buying behavior
building rapport
leading teams
motivating employees
dealing with difficult situations

Implementation

After selecting the online training company to deliver the interactive modules, during the following appraisal and performance review meeting, line managers would discuss individual training need and make a decision along with team members. It is recommended that the line manager and the employee together create a schedule and completion target, with regular review meetings. Personal learning development will be reviewed during these meetings, as well as the career progression opportunities within the company. Employees who are motivated to move on to leadership roles would need to be provided with advice and guidance in order to feel appreciated and motivated. Presenting team members with leadership opportunities to support their transition, such as leading projects within the company or taking part in organizing events would help them get ready for their further role. Coaching, therefore, should be a crucial part of the implementation process.

Evaluation and Monitoring

Employees’ experience with the professional development program’s delivery should be evaluated. Competencies of staff before and after taking part in the courses should also be measured to determine the effectiveness of each module.

Cornerstone (2010) T he empowered workforce: crucial to success in the new economy . Ondemand.

Goodall, J., Day, C., Lindsay, G., Muijs, D., & Harris, A. (2005). Evaluating the impact of continuing professional development (CPD) (No. Reference: RR659). London: Department for Education and Skills.

Stone, D. N., Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2009). Beyond talk: Creating autonomous motivation through self-determination theory. Journal of General Management , 34 (3), 75.

Zahra, S., Iram, A., & Naeem, H. Employee Training and Its Effect on Employees’ Job Motivation and Commitment: Developing and Proposing a Conceptual Model.

Stuck with your Essay?

Get in touch with one of our experts for instant help!

A Community Program to Fight Child Abuse, Research Paper Example

The Doctor of Nursing Practice, Coursework Example

Time is precious

don’t waste it!

Plagiarism-free guarantee

Privacy guarantee

Secure checkout

Money back guarantee

Related Essay Samples & Examples

Voting as a civic responsibility, essay example.

Pages: 1

Words: 287

Utilitarianism and Its Applications, Essay Example

Words: 356

The Age-Related Changes of the Older Person, Essay Example

Pages: 2

Words: 448

The Problems ESOL Teachers Face, Essay Example

Pages: 8

Words: 2293

Should English Be the Primary Language? Essay Example

Pages: 4

Words: 999

The Term “Social Construction of Reality”, Essay Example

Words: 371

48 Personal Growth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best personal growth topic ideas & essay examples, 📝 most interesting personal growth topics to write about, 👍 simple & easy personal growth essay titles.

Personal Growth and Development From a personal perspective, the strategy I intend to use to address the issue of diversity in the workplace is to be open-minded and willing to listen to others before making judgments.
Student’s Personal Growth: University Experiences The chosen data collection method was the semi-structured interview, as this method enables the researcher to elicit a lot of information and encourage the participants to share their views freely. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
My Greatest Passion and How It Has Contributed to My Personal Growth Within no time I realized that I needed to pursue the career of a social worker to fulfil my passion for the poor and downtrodden section of the society.
Effective Leadership: Character and Personal Growth In turn, this will ensure that the leader has an open mind and is accommodating to the different personalities of the followers.
The Role of Music in Personal Growth I believed that someday I would graduate from school, then I would do my best to have a degree in the field that interests me the most and pursue the career that will make me […]
Multispecies Ethnography and Personality Growth Politics became the determinant element to the determination of biodiversity protection, but the majority of the leaders focused on the essence of power.
Stress Impact on Self-Esteam and Personal Growth The causes of stress in Jennifer’s life and its possible effect on her health number of factors can be regarded as causing stress in Jennifer’s life.
Growth and Motivation Theories: Application in Personal Behavior, Professional Goal Setting, Social Policy Formulation Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory of Growth Maslow’s hierarchy of needs growth theory states that, an individual has needs that need to be fulfilled at various levels for the individual to achieve personal and professional […]
Achieving Personal and Professional Development
Relations Between Accept and Personal Growth
Personal Growth in the Book “Great Expectations”
Importance of Personal Development and Self-Assessment Exercises
Blueprint for Professional and Personal Growth
The Usefulness of Self-Assessment Tools for Personal Growth
Coping With Childbirth: Brain Structural Associations of Personal Growth Initiative
Grief After Suicide: A Health Perspective on Needs, Effective Help, and Personal Growth
The Relationships Between Emotional Intelligence and Personal Growth
Personal Growth and Happiness: Positive Psychology
Five-Year Personal Growth Plan Overview
From Childhood to Adulthood: Emotional and Physical Changes
The Attributes That Complement Professional and Personal Growth
Human Services Theory: Guidance for Personal Growth
The Relationships Between Journeys Involve New Experiences and Personal Growth
Learning and Personal Growth for Students of Poverty
Volunteering and Sacrificing as a Pathway to Personal Growth
Differences Between Nursing, Creativity, Self Care, and Personal Growth
Importance of the Personal Growth in Career Development of Managers and Employees
Personal Growth and Development: Behavioral Therapy
Achieving Personal Growth From Teaching Practice
Overview of Personal Growth and Preparation for Future Goals
Personal Growth Development and Multiple Intelligences Analysis
Importance of the Personal Growth for Women
Personal Growth Initiative and Social Support Overview
Analysis of the Plan for Professional and Personal Growth
Promoting Personal Growth Through Experiential Learning
What Children Can Teach Us About Risk, Failure, and Personal Growth
Achieving Human Potential Through Self-Actualization
Personal Growth, Self-Care, and Creativity in the Nursing Profession
Revisiting the Organismic Valuing Process Theory of Personal Growth
The Ladder of Sustainable Personal Growth and Its Steps
Personal and Professional Growth Requirements in Relation to the NMC Regulation
Supporting Personal Growth and Skill Development
What Can Time Management Bring to Your Personal Growth
Personal Growth Through Learning Overview
Working for Personal Growth and Development
The Importance of Personal Growth Within the Group
How Young People Use New Media for Community Action and Personal Growth
The Relationships Between Personal Growth and Development of Romanticism
Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, September 27). 48 Personal Growth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/personal-growth-essay-topics/

"48 Personal Growth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." IvyPanda , 27 Sept. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/personal-growth-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2023) '48 Personal Growth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples'. 27 September.

IvyPanda . 2023. "48 Personal Growth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." September 27, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/personal-growth-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "48 Personal Growth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." September 27, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/personal-growth-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "48 Personal Growth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." September 27, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/personal-growth-essay-topics/.

Personality Development Ideas
Self-Awareness Research Topics
Self-Efficacy Essay Titles
Personal Identity Paper Topics
Professional Development Research Ideas
Leadership Essay Ideas
Leadership Concept Essay Titles
Self Esteem Research Ideas
Positive Psychology Titles
Cognitive Psychology Topics
Emotional Development Questions
Psychology Questions
Talent Management Questions
Leadership Development Essay Titles
Leadership Qualities Research Ideas

6 Professional Growth Strategies to Advance Your Career

Professional growth and career advancement offer some obvious (and attractive) benefits: Higher salaries, greater respect, more exciting projects. It’s little wonder, then, that so many workers are motivated to continuously improve in their roles and climb the rungs of the corporate ladder.

What Is a Professional Growth Strategy?

A professional growth strategy is a structured plan that professionals develop to enhance their skills and knowledge in a chosen field. It involves continuously committing to learning, setting professional goals, and seeking opportunities to develop those skills for a desired career path.

Are you looking for professional growth strategies that you can leverage to improve your skills, take on more responsibility at work, and advance in your career? Below, we offer six strategies that can help you do just that.

Professional Growth Strategies

1. embrace your network..

When it comes to advancing your career, sometimes the simplest of steps can carry the greatest impact. For example, building, nurturing, and maintaining your professional network can have a tremendous impact in helping you find a new job or move up in your current organization .

If you’re unsure about the power of networking, consider this statistic: 80 percent of professionals consider networking vital to their career success. And because up to 70 percent of jobs are never listed online or made public, networking can sometimes be the only opportunity to learn about openings which might appeal to you.

If you’re new to networking (or just out of practice) consider these networking tips :

Stay connected: Networking isn’t just about meeting new people; it’s also about staying in touch with those people you already know. Do your best to stay connected with former coworkers, supervisors, and professors who can alert you to potential opportunities within their organizations. Depending on your relationship, these connections may also put in a recommendation on your behalf.
Attend industry events : Attending lectures, trade shows, meetups, or other events specifically targeted to professionals in your industry is a great way to meet people who might one day help you pivot your career.
Be a good contact : People are more likely to do you a favor if you first do a favor for them. If you want to be someone that others in your network promote and help, then you need to make sure you are putting in the work on your end to be a good contact. An act as simple as writing a recommendation or alerting someone to a job posting you thought might interest them could be enough to help you stay top of mind—increasing the likelihood that they will do the same for you when the opportunity presents itself.

2. Find a mentor.

According to a survey conducted by the American Society for Training and Development, 75 percent of executives say that mentoring has played a critical role in their career development. Even among non-executives, mentoring is often cited as one of the surest ways for an individual to learn new skills, transition into a new role, and advance in their career.

What makes for a good mentor will, of course, depend on your industry and career goals. However, finding a mentor who is able to guide and provide career advice can prove to be invaluable—no matter what industry.

Here are a few tips that you can use to find a mentor that can help guide you further into your career:

Ask your employer: Many organizations recognize the value that mentoring brings to the workplace, and have put in place formal or informal mentorship programs to help develop their employees. If your organization offers such a program, inquire about how to enroll.
Get creative: If your employer does not offer a mentorship program, there are many other options that you can pursue. College professors, experienced family members, and local professional groups may offer opportunities for you to connect with a mentor.
Find someone who has been where you are: A great mentor will be someone who has succeeded in the role that you are currently working in (or which you are about to enter) and who has used that success to advance in their career.
Look within your industry: While you may be able to find an effective mentor from outside your industry, certain industries are much more insulated and specialized than others. If you work in such an industry (or plan to), then finding a mentor from that industry can be even more impactful.

3. Ask for more responsibility.

Some individuals make the mistake of thinking that their boss or supervisor will simply know when they have earned a promotion or are ready for more responsibility.

But the truth is that sometimes you must be your own advocate if you wish to develop in your career. Instead of waiting for your boss to give you more responsibility, actively seek out opportunities to take on additional tasks—especially projects that will allow you to learn new skills or flex your leadership muscles.

Even if the experience does not directly lead to a promotion or a title change, it can be instrumental in propelling your career forward and preventing you from stagnating in your current role.

4. Take performance reviews seriously.

Formal performance reviews can be an incredibly useful tool for both the employer and employee—but only if they are taken seriously. All too often, annual and mid-year performance reviews are treated as an afterthought, completed at the last minute and often with poorly planned responses.

Performance reviews are an excellent way for employers to show employees where they are meeting expectations and where they may be falling short—a practice that benefits both parties. For employees, they are also an incredibly effective way of making it known that you have goals for professional development. Once your employer or supervisor knows that you have defined goals, you can work together to identify a plan of action that will allow you to get where you want to be, whether that means learning new skills, gaining new experience, or something else entirely.

If your employer does not regularly engage in a review process, consider asking them if they can start. If they have a review process but regularly fail to stick to, take the initiative yourself to remind them.

5. Master your industry.

Certain industries require that executives possess much more specialized knowledge and skills than other industries. By mastering that information—the jargon, the processes, the trends—you will be better able to communicate about the issues your industry and organization are facing, allowing you to demonstrate your capability.

There are several steps you can take to ensure you’re continuously learning about your business and industry. Take time each week to read the publications (magazines, websites, etc.) that cater to your industry, join professional groups that target other professionals in your industry, and attend trade shows or lectures that offer you the opportunity to learn even more than you already know. Then, look for opportunities to leverage that information to improve in your role.

6. Further your education.

Whether your goal is to advance in your career at your current organization, transition to a new role elsewhere, or work in a brand new industry, furthering your education is one strategy that can help you get there.

Continuing your education gives you a structured path to learn the skills you need for success. It also demonstrates to employers (and potential employers) that you are a lifelong learner who values self-improvement and can even help you keep up with the changing demands of our changing economy.

Exactly what “furthering your education” means to you will, of course, depend upon your current level of education. If you have not yet earned an undergraduate degree, earning a degree that aligns with your career goals and desired industry can be an incredible first step, helping you qualify for up to 57 percent more job opportunities and earn approximately $1 million dollars more throughout the course of your career.

And you don’t need to stop there. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , each further step you take on your educational journey will translate into higher average pay and lower unemployment rates. While an individual with a bachelor’s degree will earn approximately $62,296 annually, master’s degree holders can expect to earn an average $74,568 annually, and doctorate graduates can expect to earn an average of $94,900 each year.

Preparing for the Next Step in Your Career

If your existing employer is not enabling you to meet your professional career goals and has indicated that they cannot or will not be able to do so in the future, then it may be in your best interest to begin looking for a new job with an organization that is willing and able to help you reach those goals.

Though it may be intimidating to go on the job hunt, especially if you have been in the same position or with the same company for a number of years, there are some relatively simple steps you can take to increase your chances of success:

Revamp your resume.

A great resume is one that makes the hiring manager’s job easier. It should communicate who you are (including your education and work experience) in a format that can be easily and quickly understood.

Focus on transferable skills.

Transferable skills are any talent or soft skills that can be applied to multiple roles or industries, such as communication, analytical thinking, project management, and leadership skills. These qualities can be demonstrated with a mix of work experience and educational attainment. Communicating them in your resume and interview with potential employers can be a great way of showing your versatility, and can be especially impactful when making a switch to a new industry or role.

Prepare for the interview.

If you apply for a job and are chosen for a phone, digital, or in-person interview, you should treat the event with the respect that it deserves with thorough preparation . Consider conducting a mock interview or practice with a friend, and make sure you do your homework by learning about the company you are interviewing with. After all, it has the potential to change the trajectory of your career and life.

Are you considering going back to school in order to advance in your career? Speak to an admissions counselor for more information about Northeastern’s bachelor’s degree completion options .

Professional Growth Essays

A personal reflection on the clinical experiences, spirituality and social work, achieving social responsibility in human service organizations reflective essay, popular essay topics.

American Dream
Artificial Intelligence
Black Lives Matter
Bullying Essay
Career Goals Essay
Causes of the Civil War
Child Abusing
Civil Rights Movement
Community Service
Cultural Identity
Cyber Bullying
Death Penalty
Depression Essay
Domestic Violence
Freedom of Speech
Global Warming
Gun Control
Human Trafficking
I Believe Essay
Immigration
Importance of Education
Israel and Palestine Conflict
Leadership Essay
Legalizing Marijuanas
Mental Health
National Honor Society
Police Brutality
Pollution Essay
Racism Essay
Romeo and Juliet
Same Sex Marriages
Social Media
The Great Gatsby
The Yellow Wallpaper
Time Management
To Kill a Mockingbird
Violent Video Games
What Makes You Unique
Why I Want to Be a Nurse
Send us an e-mail

How To Design a Professional Development Plan for Career Growth

Updated: March 11, 2024

Published: September 25, 2023

Climbing the corporate ladder or growing your own business requires constant learning and improvement.

Sometimes, you’ll learn from mistakes and general experience while working in the field daily. However, having a clear plan to develop your skills is necessary to grow in your profession and reach new heights over the long term.

A professional development plan is a tool that can ensure you gain and enhance your skills in a structured manner.

What is a professional development plan?

A professional development plan is a strategic road map designed to help individuals enhance their skills, knowledge, and expertise in their chosen field. It serves as a guide for setting goals, identifying areas for improvement, and mapping out actionable steps for continuous growth and career development.

Why do you need a professional development plan?

If you’re on a career path with opportunities to expand into new or higher positions, then odds are you need a plan to develop your skill set. Creating one can increase your odds of earning spots in roles you weren’t eligible for before.

For example, imagine a content editor who aspires to become a digital marketing strategist. In order to earn that promotion and move into that new role, they will need to improve their digital marketing skills. This may involve attending industry conferences and events, enrolling in online courses, earning a new degree, and seeking mentorship from experienced digital marketers, amongst other strategies.

By following a well-crafted plan, individuals can unlock their full potential and stay ahead in today’s competitive job market.

Benefits of a professional development plan

Here’s a look at some of the other benefits of having a professional development plan:

It clarifies your goals

A development plan defines specific goals you want to reach, such as earning a promotion, learning new technologies, improving your communication, and enhancing your leadership skills . For example, a software engineer in product design may set a goal to become proficient in a new programming language to expand their job opportunities.

It identifies strengths and weaknesses

Professional development plans don’t just guide your next steps — they review your current performance to identify strengths and weaknesses. By assessing your current skills and knowledge, you can identify areas where you excel and areas that need improvement. For instance, a sales professional may realize they excel at building relationships but lack negotiation skills.

It keeps you motivated and focused

Having a development plan keeps you motivated and focused on your career growth. It provides a sense of direction and purpose, helping you overcome obstacles and stay committed to your goals.

A human resources professional who has a goal of becoming a director within a year, for example, may become disenchanted with her goal if she doesn’t have a clear-cut way of achieving it. Building a professional development plan that outlines the skills she needs to foster and the strategies she can use to do so can keep her motivated over the long term.

It helps you maintain a competitive edge

The business landscape constantly evolves. A development plan ensures you stay up to date with industry trends and advancements. For instance, a health care professional may include continuous education in their plan, as well as a goal of attending conferences to stay informed about the latest medical breakthroughs.

It increases job satisfaction

A development plan allows you to pursue your passions and interests within your profession. By aligning your career goals with your personal aspirations, you can find greater fulfillment and satisfaction in your work. For example, a graphic designer may focus on developing their illustration skills to work on print projects that align with their artistic interests.

Remember, a professional development plan isn’t a one-time task, but an ongoing process that evolves with your career aspirations. As you accomplish pieces of your plan and start to realize your goals, you should constantly return to your plan and think about what else you may want to add.

How to create a professional development plan

It’s time to walk the talk of improving your professional skills. But where should you begin when creating your professional development plan?

Follow these five steps.

Step 1: Assess your current skills and knowledge

Creating a professional development plan starts with assessing your current skills and knowledge. This identifies your strengths and areas for improvement.

Here’s how to assess your current skills and knowledge:

Conduct a self-assessment: Reflect on your current skills, knowledge, and experience. What things can you do well? What projects or tasks do you struggle with the most? Then determine where you’d like to invest time to grow professionally.
Seek feedback: Request feedback from your supervisors, colleagues, or mentors. They can provide valuable insights into your performance and areas where you can further develop your skills.
Evaluate performance reviews: Review your past performance evaluations or appraisals to identify any recurring feedback or areas for improvement.
Identify skill gaps: Compare your current skills and knowledge with the requirements of your desired career path or future roles. Identify any gaps that need addressing to achieve your professional goals.

By assessing your current skills and knowledge, you gain a clear understanding of where you stand professionally and can identify the areas that require further development.

Step 2: Set SMART goals

After assessing your current skills and knowledge, the next step is to set SMART goals. SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Setting SMART goals ensures your objectives are clear, actionable, and aligned with your professional growth.

Here’s how you can set SMART goals:

1. Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve. Be specific about the skills or knowledge you want to develop and the outcomes you expect.

Example: Improve my presentation skills to deliver engaging presentations to clients and stakeholders confidently.

2. Measurable: Set criteria to measure your progress and success. This tracks your development and increases motivation.

Example: Increase my presentation skills rating from 7 to 9 on a scale of 1-10 within six months.

3. Achievable: Ensure your goals are realistic and attainable. Consider your available resources, time, and capabilities.

Example: Attend presentation skills workshops, practice presentations regularly, and seek feedback from colleagues and mentors.

4. Relevant: Align your goals with your career aspirations and the needs of your role or industry. Ensure that they contribute to your professional growth.

Example: Enhance presentation skills to excel in client-facing roles and contribute to business development efforts.

5. Time-Bound: Set a deadline or timeline for achieving your goals. This adds a sense of urgency and helps you stay focused.

Example: Improve presentation skills within six months by attending two workshops, practicing presentations weekly, and receiving feedback from colleagues.

When we put all those pieces together, we get a single goal that says, “Improve presentation skills within six months by attending two workshops, practicing presentations weekly, and receiving feedback from colleagues.”

Step 3: Identify development opportunities

After assessing your skills and setting SMART goals, the next step is identifying development opportunities. This involves finding opportunities to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Here are several ideas:

Research available resources: Conduct thorough research to identify the resources and opportunities that can support your professional growth. This may include online platforms, books, industry publications, professional associations, and training programs.
Attend workshops, conferences, and online courses: Participating in workshops, conferences, and online courses can provide valuable learning experiences and help you acquire new skills and knowledge. Look for relevant events and courses that align with your goals and interests.
Seek out mentorship: Finding a mentor experienced in your field can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights. Seek out professionals who have achieved success in areas you want to develop and establish a mentorship relationship with them.
Find networking opportunities: Engaging in networking activities allows you to connect with professionals in your industry and expand your professional network. Attend industry events, join professional groups or associations, and participate in online communities to build connections and learn from others.

The more resources and opportunities you explore, the greater the possibility you’ll have to enhance your skills and grow your career. So add one or more from the list to your professional development plan.

Step 4: Create an action plan

Once you’ve identified development opportunities, create an action plan. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable milestones and create a timeline and schedule for your development activities.

Here’s an example of how you can create an effective action plan:

1. Breaking down goals into smaller milestones: Divide your goals into smaller, achievable milestones. This helps you track your progress and stay motivated as you accomplish each milestone. Break down your goals into specific tasks or activities.

Example: If your goal is to improve your project management skills, your milestones could be completing a project management course, applying the learned skills to a real-life project, and receiving positive feedback from stakeholders.

2. Creating a timeline: Set a timeline for each milestone and the overall completion of your goals. Consider the resources available to you and any external deadlines or constraints. Be realistic in your timeline to ensure you have enough time to complete each milestone effectively.

Example: You might allocate three months for completing the project management course, two months for applying the skills to a real-life project, and one month for receiving feedback and making improvements.

3. Scheduling development activities: Create a schedule for your development activities. Determine when and how often you’ll engage in each activity, such as attending workshops and networking events, or working on specific tasks. This helps you allocate time and resources effectively.

Example: You might attend a project management workshop every other week, spend two hours each week practicing project management techniques, and allocate dedicated time for networking activities on a monthly basis.

Creating an action plan establishes a clear road map for achieving your goals. This helps you stay organized, focused, and accountable, and ensures you take a structured approach to reaching your goals.

Step 5: Implement and review the plan

With your action plan in place, it’s time to implement it and regularly review your progress.

Here’s how you can effectively implement and review your professional development plan:

Stay committed to the plan: Prioritize the activities outlined in your action plan. Make a conscious effort to allocate time and resources for your development activities and treat them as a priority.
Schedule regular check-ins: Set specific dates or intervals to check in on your progress. This allows you to assess how well you’re sticking to your plan and achieving your milestones. Regular check-ins help you stay accountable and make any necessary adjustments to your plan if needed.
Review your progress: During your check-ins, review your progress toward your goals and milestones. Evaluate what’s working well and which areas need improvement. Reflect on the outcomes of your development activities and assess whether they’re helping you achieve your desired outcomes.
Make adjustments: Based on your progress reviews, make any necessary adjustments to your plan. This may involve modifying timelines, revising milestones, or exploring additional development opportunities. Stay flexible and adapt your plan as needed to ensure continued growth and success.
Celebrate achievements: Recognize and celebrate your achievements along the way. Acknowledge the progress you’ve made and the skills you’ve developed. This helps to maintain motivation and positive momentum in your professional development journey.

Measuring success and adjusting your professional development plan are crucial for growth. By tracking progress, identifying areas for improvement, and making necessary adjustments, you can ensure your plan remains effective and aligned with your goals. So stay proactive and adaptable to achieve continuous professional growth.

hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(53, 'ad22bdd9-fd50-4b35-a4f5-7586f5a61a1e', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"});

What did you think of this article .

Give Feedback

Don't forget to share this post!

Creating a Fulfilling Workplace: 5 Guaranteed Ways to Boost Job Satisfaction on Your Team

30+ Positive Feedback Examples Your Employees Need to Hear

Guide to Onboarding vs. Orientation

Behavioral Competencies: Putting Together the Best Team

56 Core Company Values That Will Shape Your Culture & Inspire Your Employees

How To Use a Hiring Committee for Your Company

How To Avoid Manager Burnout

How To Create a Job Requisition

Paid Holidays: An Explainer

How To Craft a PTO Policy

Outline your company's marketing strategy in one simple, coherent plan.

Marketing software that helps you drive revenue, save time and resources, and measure and optimize your investments — all on one easy-to-use platform

More From Forbes

How can leaders help employees achieve professional growth.

Share to Facebook
Share to Twitter
Share to Linkedin

Lydia is a key contributor to brands’ ongoing success as Senior VP of Elevate at ChicExecs .

Too often, managers expect employees to keep up with professional development, training and learning on their own time. However, if the expectation is there, then so too should the direction and support from above. When employees continue to grow their skills, everyone feels accomplished, and the whole team wins.

You, of course, have your plate full of managing people, projects and budgets, but professional growth can only happen with investment from the leadership team. And the new skills you and your team acquire will undoubtedly pay dividends in the long run. Not only will they get faster and better at their jobs, but your employees will also feel more confident and capable, which are two essential ingredients for retention.

Follow these five tips to jumpstart meaningful growth for your employees.

Set growth goals.

It’s hard to grow if you don’t know where you’re going. Ask your team to set goals for professional development. Vague goals like “Get better at Excel” won’t work here. Use the SMART goal-setting framework to set goals that are:

Samsung Releases New Feature Boost To Millions Of Galaxy Phones

Trump again targets judge s daughter in new york criminal case, apple iphone 16 pro new leak reveals updated colors coming this fall.

• Specific.

• Measurable.

• Achievable.

• Relevant.

• Time-bound.

For example, a SMART version of the Excel goal would be, “Earn my Excel certification by the end of Q3.” That’s a more manageable goal for employees to shoot for, and it’s also easier for you, as a manager, to hold them accountable to that goal.

Let goal-setting be a collaborative, employee-led process. While you can offer input about where employees should improve their skills, let them steer the ship. Work with them to refine their professional development goals at least once a quarter so your team always has something to shoot for.

Provide opportunities for learning and development.

Are you providing opportunities for learning at work, or are you asking employees to find them on their own time? Productivity matters, but if growth is a priority, then you need to find ways to bring learning to the workplace, which could mean:

• Setting up lunch-and-learns.

• Offering monthly training sessions.

• Paying for employees’ certifications, tests or training materials.

• Scheduling regular mixers, either for the internal team or for folks in your industry.

Growth is always a good use of time. Just make sure to cross-check that all opportunities align well with your team’s goals so they get more value out of them.

Be a mentor.

Many people invested in your professional development as you climbed the corporate ladder. It is now your turn to pay it forward. Take on a mentorship role with your team. Meet once monthly to chat about their career aspirations, personal projects and skills. Sometimes, it’s helpful for them just to have someone to bounce ideas off of or consult when they have questions.

If your team is too large for you to mentor everyone personally, tap into others in your organization or network to fill the role. Ideally, you can match employees with mentors who fit their general career trajectory or desired skill set.

Give fair, actionable feedback.

Employees are human, just like you. Sometimes, they make mistakes or work inefficiently. Missteps are opportunities to give feedback that helps your team grow. After all, if they know what to do next time, they’ll be much better positioned to improve over time.

The key here is to offer fair, honest and actionable feedback. For example, something like, “Nobody likes your tone at the client meetings” isn’t helpful. It also comes off as a bit adversarial. A more actionable version of this could sound like, “We got feedback that the client thought you came off as dismissive when they shared their concerns. Next time, let’s work on asking the client questions and reassuring them more.” This approach highlights the problem while offering an actionable path forward for next time.

Recognize and celebrate growth.

Growth isn’t easy. Your employees put a lot of effort into boosting their skills, so acknowledge that effort! Something as simple as verbal recognition goes a long way, but try to celebrate growth in significant ways, too. Consider options such as:

• Throwing a pizza party for employees.

• Nominating team members for awards.

• Generating certificates of achievement.

• Creating peer-to-peer recognition programs with tangible rewards (free Starbucks gift cards, anyone?).

Leading With a Growth Mindset

Supporting team growth is one of a manager’s many obligations, but it doesn’t have to be hard work. Embracing the spirit of growth is a massive opportunity for upskilling your team, boosting cohesion and retaining talent. Growth won’t happen overnight, but it’s a noble pursuit for any leader craving a competitive edge in a fast-paced market.

Forbes Business Development Council is an invitation-only community for sales and biz dev executives. Do I qualify?

Editorial Standards
Reprints & Permissions

IMAGES

Breathtaking Personal Growth Essay ~ Thatsnotus
Human Growth & Development Through the Life Stages Free Essay Example
Exercise 2
Reflective Essay On Personal Development Plan
011 Professional Development Essay Example Personal And Leadership
FREE 8+ Personal Essay Samples in PDF

VIDEO

Population Growth Essay in English || Essay on Population Growth in English
Effects Of population Growth Essay
How Are You Different Than You Were Six Months Ago?
How To Overcome The Two Major Limits To Muscle Growth
IELTS Essay Topic
जनसंख्या वृद्धि पर निबंध |essay on Population growth in hindi |jansankhya vruddhi par nibandh

COMMENTS

Why is Professional Development Important?
Professional development can help to bolster employees' confidence in their work. Greater confidence can, in turn, translate into higher overall job satisfaction, employee performance, productivity, and overall morale. Investing in professional development training programs also shows employees that their company is invested in their success ...
How to Write a Personal Growth Essay
Dive into the art of crafting a compelling narrative about personal growth. 1. Choose Your Story: The Heartbeat of Your Essay. The essence of your essay lies in the story you decide to narrate. Growth can sprout from myriad experiences, both grand and ordinary.
≡ Personal Growth Essay Examples for College by GradesFixer
Our free essays on Personal Growth and Development can be used as a template for writing your own article. All samples were written by the best students 👩🏿‍🎓👨‍🎓 just for you. ... Introduction Personal and professional development is a process that requires one to reflect on their own strengths and weaknesses, meditate on ...
Professional Growth Development Free Essay Example
Essay, Pages 21 (5023 words) Views. 3869. In every profession it is vital for a private to develop and grow professionally. Leaning is a routine aspect in professional advancement. Every day provides brand-new needs that require defined methods in resolving them. This paper research studies profession development for signed up nurses working in ...
Professional Growth Essays (Examples)
5. Discuss the ethical considerations and challenges involved in conducting teacher interviews. 6. Examine the role of emotional intelligence and empathy in assessing a teacher candidate's potential. 7. Analyze the effectiveness of various assessment tools, such as role-playing and case studies, in teacher interviews.
Professional Growth Essay
Professional Growth Plan Essay. Professional Growth Plan One of the most appealing parts of entering the teaching profession is the daily opportunities to continue growing both professionally and as an individual. I am a true believer in the belief that learning is a lifelong activity. As a teacher, you have many opportunities to grow through ...
My Professional Growth as an Education Major Essays
My Professional Growth as an Education Major Essays. Good Essays. 1044 Words. 5 Pages. Open Document. Throughout the numerous experiences I have had during my time at Benedictine University, I have learned different lessons and values that will prove important to my teaching career. The different courses, teachers, and schools that I had the ...
Personal Growth Essay
Personal Growth. Perhaps this topic is the most popular one since it delves into the heart of what the admissions essay is all about: helping the college gain better insight into an applicant's personality and character. Some schools ask targeted questions — "What was the most challenging event you have ever faced, and how have you grown from it?" — while others leave the topic open ...
Professional Development Plan: Opportunities for Growth Essay
Professional Development Plan. To start my learning, I will need to prioritize my needs as a learner. For instance, at present, I need to develop the skills of cross-disciplinary cooperation and a culturally sensitive approach toward meeting the needs of diverse patients. Therefore, the study of interdisciplinary collaboration and culturally ...
Professional Experience Essay Examples & Guidance
An effective Professional Experience Essay will give the Admissions Committee a sense of the career decisions you've made, your most significant achievements in each chapter of your career, and the skills and knowledge you've acquired on your career journey. This "walk through your resume" in essay form is your opportunity to provide ...
Professional Growth in the Business Field Essay
For example, I have considered matters like the army's resource utilization based on a paper by Fellmann et al. (2019), in which the authors discuss resource patterns in relation to business. Finally, I have illustrated procedures within a company as one of its employees, describing customers, channels, value propositions, revenue streams ...
Essays About Personal Growth: Top 5 Examples and 8 Prompts
5. Personal Growth for Leaders. Leaders must adapt and address problems efficiently and decisively as they move through a fast-changing landscape. Elaborate on how the pursuit of personal growth helps leaders deliver in their enormous role in organizations, companies, and communities. 6.
Professional Development at Work, Essay Example
The Cornerstone project (2010) lists some of the major competitive advantages gained by companies encouraging professional development of employees. First, a workplace where employees are empowered is more engaged. Quoting related statistics, the authors state that "companies with higher-than-average employee engagement also had 27 percent ...
10 Strategies to Effectively Promote Your Professional Growth
Here are 10 strategies to help you pursue professional growth: 1. Set clear goals. By setting detailed, you can create actionable steps to help you achieve those goals. Measuring your accomplishments may also help motivate you in the long term. Creating a PGP can help you outline how you want to advance your career.
Lessons from a Teacher of the Year: Professional Growth ...
Conclusion. In conclusion, this essay highlights the importance of teamwork and flexibility in strengthening the teaching profession. The author's approach to being a positive team player, sharing knowledge, mentoring young and inexperienced teachers, and being open to change, serves as a model for others in the profession.
48 Personal Growth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples
Five-Year Personal Growth Plan Overview. From Childhood to Adulthood: Emotional and Physical Changes. The Attributes That Complement Professional and Personal Growth. Human Services Theory: Guidance for Personal Growth. The Relationships Between Journeys Involve New Experiences and Personal Growth.
6 Professional Growth Strategies to Advance Your Career
Professional Growth Strategies. 1. Embrace your network. When it comes to advancing your career, sometimes the simplest of steps can carry the greatest impact. For example, building, nurturing, and maintaining your professional network can have a tremendous impact in helping you find a new job or move up in your current organization.
Free MBA Growth Essay Samples
Free MBA Growth Essay Samples written by ARINGO candidates who were admitted to top MBA programs.
The Attributes that Complement Professional Growth
Should have a very strong drive and motivation to continually develop my professional skills. Should have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. Should have the ability to relate to all types of other people I work with. Should be flexible and adaptable to meet changing conditions or situations.
Professional Growth And Research : Free Essay Example, 563 words
Topic: Personal Growth and Development, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research. Pages: 1 (563 words) Views: 2110. Grade: 4.8. Download. Research plays a crucial role in one's professional growth. It can also be the foundation to the professional growth. Research can clarify one's misconception. Everyone likes to have growth in their ...
Professional Growth Essay Examples
Professional Growth Essays. A Personal Reflection on the Clinical Experiences. My clinical rotation in the outpatient department- the emergency room and the operating theatre was very exciting because I got to observe and learn a lot from the different experiences I had with the patients we served. I got to see how the emergency room is ...
How To Design a Professional Development Plan for Career Growth
Ensure that they contribute to your professional growth. Example: Enhance presentation skills to excel in client-facing roles and contribute to business development efforts. 5. Time-Bound: Set a deadline or timeline for achieving your goals. This adds a sense of urgency and helps you stay focused.
How Can Leaders Help Employees Achieve Professional Growth?
Supporting team growth is one of a manager's many obligations, but it doesn't have to be hard work. Embracing the spirit of growth is a massive opportunity for upskilling your team, boosting ...
Reflections on my Personal and Professional Growth
3047. My time studying with the University of Phoenix online has impacted my life in many ways. I have had the possibility to find out a lot by using the Internet to help me further my education. I feel that my degree will open numerous brand-new doors for me, however first I will return and discuss my impressions from when I first started ...
Helping Your Team Grow Professionally
Promoting Professional Growth on Your Team . By making professional development and career advancement a priority on your team, you can cultivate a motivated, skilled, and loyal workforce. By not having these conversations, you risk creating fewer engaged employees. Investing your time into their professional growth shows you're committed to ...
Personal Development: Reflection and Growth
Personal development is the process of improving oneself in various aspects of life through self-reflection, learning, and growth. It is an ongoing journey that requires continuous effort and dedication to achieve one's full potential. The purpose of this reflective essay is to identify and analyze key experiences, strengths and weaknesses ...

Why is Professional Development Important?

Lian Parsons

What is Professional Development?

Benefits of Professional Development for Employers

Higher Retention Rates

Attract Better Talent

Help Employees Stay Up to Date With Industry Trends to Keep Skills Sharp

Benefits of Professional Development for Employees

Learn new skills

Boost Confidence and Credibility

Develop Leadership Skills

Build Your Network

Advance in your career

Where to Take Professional Development Courses

About the Author

Strategic Leadership

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

Professional Growth Essays (Examples)

Filter by Keywords:(add comma between each)

Explore how schreiner allow women to support each other in woman\'s rose

Do you have any tips for outlining an essay specifically on the subject of Rizal Law and its Implications to the Filipino Students\' Present and Future Life

I\'m up for a challenge! Do you have any complex or thought-provoking essay topics on how do you plan teacher interview?

Professional Growth Plan Over the Next Few

Attributes for Professional Growth When

Leadership Styles and Professional Growth

Learning Experience and Professional Growth Nursing Reflection Paper

Professional Association Professional Organization for Nursing in

Professional Counseling the Relevance of Counseling as

Professional Association

professional and personal development in education

Professional Dispositions and a Growth Mindset for Teachers

Professional Settings and Improved Quality of Healthcare

Professional Development in Early Childhood Education

Professional Issues in Nursing Things That Surprised

Professional Knowledge and Abilities the American Psychological

Professional Learning Application of Effective

Professional Choirs in America The

Research Paper

My Professional Growth as an Education Major Essays

Personal and professional development Essay

Diverse Family Experiences

Rhonda Haus: Student Analysis

Becoming An Urban Teacher

Collaboration Between Teachers And Teachers

Benefits Of Overarching SMART Goals

My Personal Philosophy of Education Essay

Examples Of Critical Incident Of A Teacher

My Path Of Becoming A Teacher

The Values And Beliefs Of The Staff

The Importance Of Education In Education

The Importance Of An Ideal Environment For Working Together With Students

Autobiography Of A Teacher

Essay on My Ideal Teacher

Professional Development as a Teacher: Personal Reflection Essay

Personal Growth Essay | A Winning Essay Writing Strategy

Sample Essays And Comments

Popular Posts

Related Posts

Writing a memorable Professional Experience Essay

How to Score Top Marks on Professional Experience Essays

Free MBA Essay Writing Course

Telling the Story of Your Career

1. Identify and Outline the Chapters of Your Career Story

2. Explain the Reason(s) for Your Career Decision

3. Discuss Significant Challenges and Accomplishments

4. Share Major Areas of Growth

Professional Experience Essay Sample

Final Thoughts

Related Articles: Essay Examples

Essays About Personal Growth: Top 5 Examples and 8 Prompts

5 Essay Examples About Personal Growth

Professional Development at Work, Essay Example

Related Essay Samples & Examples

Utilitarianism and Its Applications, Essay Example

The Age-Related Changes of the Older Person, Essay Example

The Problems ESOL Teachers Face, Essay Example

Should English Be the Primary Language? Essay Example

The Term “Social Construction of Reality”, Essay Example

48 Personal Growth Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

6 Professional Growth Strategies to Advance Your Career