We’ve all heard the familiar old refrain, “I can never find enough time”. Many times, this is just an excuse because we can never FIND time, we can only TAKE time. So many people complain that they don’t have enough time, but miraculously take time to do the things they enjoy most.
This is because we subconsciously do the things that are a priority to us. Setting priorities is key to success, especially in business. To stay on top of our field we may even have to let certain jobs go, or delegate them to others, in order to increase our professional development. Remember, if you want to stay on top, you must feed the top (of your head).
What about loss of work productivity?
Sometimes it’s not possible to keep the same productivity while we undergo an educational process. The demand of professional development takes time, energy and commitment. I was running my second company while I was completing my Degree, and teaching full-time during my MBA. However, I had confidence in my choice of programs.
Others had to take up the slack, but I knew the final outcome would strengthen my business and employees in the long run. The key was keeping the right time horizon in sight. Even though my performance decreased in the present, it would increase in the future.
Professional Development keeps us competitive and effective.
We are always more effective with the right tools. In carpentry, the old adage says – Measure twice, cut once. Without the proper measuring device or cutting equipment, this is impossible. Most seasoned professionals greatest competitive advantage is their experiential skill set and knowledge. So basically the more experience and knowledge, the more we have to offer.
As professionals, we must continue to develop our skills and knowledge. If you don’t take the time, your competition will.
Where are the best places for professional development training
- Let me just say thank God for the Internet. Even though there is destructive, deceiving and despicable things found online, it still has a lot of good stuff including –
Harvard Business Review – Articles and Case Studies
Coursera – Online University Classes
Ted Talks – Free Lectures & Presentations - Contact your local governmental, library, chamber of commerce, or university and talk to various departments about training programs or seminars they have to offer.
US Department of Labor – Adult Training Programs
Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives – Training and Seminars - Try looking at the bios of your competitors or others in your field on Linked-in, or join communities of like minded individuals
LinkedIn – professional networking website
Meet-up – Online community of events everywhere in the world! - It is also helpful to network with others by joining a number of pertinent organizations and local affiliations, which can provide training and reference material.
Rotary Club – Professionals meeting with professionals
Business Networking International – business people meeting regularly at local chapters.