Why didn’t I break this rule sooner???
Kristina Cleary
Founder & Chief Leadership Coach ACCELLE Inc. I help ACCELLErate the personal and professional success of leaders through content, coaching and community. Advocate for women in leadership.
It was only when I left my C-level position and started my coaching certification that I realized throughout my entire career I was following a rule book.
A rule book filled with rules I had learned from others or even made myself along the way. What I didn’t realize is some of these rules were beneficial while others were roadblocks.
There’s one particular “rule” – or should I say roadblock I want to share.
For the entire duration of my career, I lived by the rule that the companies I worked for were responsible for my learning and development. I relied on the company to identify what training I needed, when I needed it, and of course to pay for it. This rule stayed with me throughout my entire journey – even into my most senior roles!
Living by this rule meant…
This rule was clearly made to be broken!
And now? A new rule takes its place:
Always be learning and invest in YOURSELF!
The benefits of learning, leadership training and earning certifications cannot be underestimated.
In fact, according to a new report from Skillsoft, 86% of women respondents cited professional development as being extremely or very important, but less than half say their employer offers this as a benefit. And when asked how certifications benefited their careers, 52% of women reported experiencing more responsibility, 34% earned a raise, 32% received a promotion, and 26% earned a bonus.
Professional development looks different for everyone. It’s important for YOU to create a plan that aligns with your career goals. Whether you’re looking for a leadership role or a higher salary, making professional development a priority helps to ensure you are set up for success.
What is your professional development plan looking like this year?
Kristina
P.S. If you’re ready to make professional development a priority and work toward securing a promotion at your current company, consider this a personal invitation to join Accelle All Year. An annual learning and development program FOR women BY women.