Earlier this summer, I facilitated a Zoom session with a small group of employees to gather feedback on a new training initiative. The discussion was eye-opening. While a few participants voiced concerns about the perceived bureaucracy around required training, others shared that they had already implemented some of the tools and were eager for their colleagues to experience the same growth.
My biggest takeaway? When rolling out professional development (PD) opportunities, it’s essential to invite your team into the process. Be transparent about the “why” behind the training. Let people know it’s not just a box to check—it’s a pathway for their personal growth and a strategy to drive organizational success.
This week, I’ll be in Mississippi speaking with educators about building a Professional Development Toolbox (follow along with all of our events here). Shortly after, I’ll head to Mobile, Alabama to kick off a PD course with another group of dedicated educators. Despite being in different locations and varied groups, the message is the same: professional development is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for organizations that want to thrive.
Whether you’re supporting teachers, tech teams, or healthcare workers, the tools you include in your PD toolbox may differ—but the framework remains consistent:
- Identify what your organization needs to operate effectively and stay competitive.
- Align those needs with the existing or aspirational skill sets of your employees.
- Provide the tools, resources, and opportunities that allow people to grow—and in turn, help your organization flourish.
As the saying goes, “The only thing worse than training your employees and having them leave is not training them and having them stay.” – Henry Ford
When professional development is done well, it’s not just about skill-building. It’s about cultivating a culture of curiosity, ownership, and continual growth.
For ideas on how to get started, check out these previous blog posts:
- 4 Ways To get Unstuck with Professional Development
- Nourishing Your Growth in 2025: Why Learning Belongs on Your Agenda
- Who Cares about Professional Development? Horizon Point does!
Ask us at HPC how we can help you expand your professional development toolbox!