Take ownership of your personal development
None of us know what the future holds in store. What we do know is that whatever the future holds - change is inevitable. What we are doing today will potentially be very different in the future.
Change is a fact of life and in order to be adequately equipped for change it is essential we develop the necessary skills to deal with such change. The question of course is “how do we prepare for changes in our work environment, how do we predict an unknown future in our work environment?
If you are working for a company that has “developed a culture of learning” then in many respects you are blessed. This company is probably taking care of your development needs and will have developed a learning path or a continuous development programme to take you through your career with them. This is something to be admired in companies and they should be complimented for their effort in the ongoing development of their employees.
Much of the change we see in companies is as a result of technology. This would then indicate a need to keep your technical skills up to date even if the new technology does not impact on your specific job. As with all forms of self development it is essential to be pro-active – do it now rather than later when it may be too late.
To remain in demand in the workplace it is essential you continue your personal and professional development. The skills I refer to here are skills all employees should demonstrate on an on going basis – Leadership skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, innovative thinking and so on. These are some of the skills sought by all employers and are always in demand in the workplace.
Many of the learners I train tell me “the company does not offer such programmes”. They therefore do nothing to develop these skills. Many sit back waiting for others to train them. It is time for such people to “wake up and smell the roses”. Your future is in your hands and not your employers. It is time to take ownership of your personal development.
- You will need to consider a personal development plan – This will require that you invest some money and not just time, in your personal development.
- Identify the areas you want to improve and choose one or two. Concentrate on these over the next six to twelve months.
- Develop a long term self development plan. This plan my include further education and training in order to develop the skills you need to advance in your career.
- Consider your current position and the company you work for. What is it your company does and what are the essential skills required within the company? When you have identified these skills then undertake some training to ensure you become multi-skilled. Why jeopardise your future by concentrating only on the skills necessary to do your current job? To me multi-skilling is the way of the future – this is your problem and will require some action by you. Don’t sit back waiting for someone to do it for you. It is your responsibility.
Finally I suggest you broaden your horizons by learning as much about the world of business as you can. Once again only you can do this.
When was the last time your read the business section in the press? What changes have taken place recently in the economy, within your specific profession or within your specific industry?
No one can predict the future but you can stay ahead of your competitors by staying informed and by taking charge of your personal development.
© Des Squire (Managing Member)
AMSI and ASSOCIATES cc
Cell 0828009057