Glossaries
Career Development
What is Career Development?
Career development is the ongoing process of managing your learning, work, and transitions to move toward a personally determined and evolving preferred future.
Synonyms: Professional growth, Career advancement, Career progression, Professional development, Career planning
Why Career Development is Important
Career development is crucial for both employees and organizations. It helps individuals grow professionally, increase job satisfaction, and achieve long-term career goals. For companies, supporting career development leads to improved employee retention, higher productivity, and a more skilled workforce.
How Career Development Works
Career development involves several key steps:
- Self-assessment: Identifying your skills, interests, and values
- Goal setting: Defining short-term and long-term career objectives
- Skill development: Acquiring new knowledge and abilities through training and experiences
- Networking: Building professional relationships and seeking mentorship
- Career progression: Advancing within your current role or transitioning to new opportunities
Examples of Career Development Activities
- Attending workshops and conferences
- Pursuing additional certifications or degrees
- Participating in job rotation programs
- Seeking feedback and performance reviews
- Engaging in mentorship programs (as mentor or mentee)
- Taking on challenging projects to expand skills
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between career development and professional development?: Career development focuses on long-term career growth and progression, while professional development typically refers to improving skills for your current role.
- How often should I review my career development plan?: It's recommended to review your career development plan at least annually, or more frequently if you're experiencing significant changes in your career or industry.
- Can career development happen outside of work?: Absolutely! Career development can include volunteer work, personal projects, or learning new skills in your free time that contribute to your overall career goals.
