One perk of working for an organization committed to professional development is a dedicated annual stipend for employees to use at their discretion to expand their learning opportunities. Unfortunately, this perk often goes overlooked as you may get too busy with your workload and external activities, and by the time the budget year ends, you’re scrambling to find a professional development activity to spend your stipend.
There is a wide landscape of professional development activities to choose from, which can sometimes cause analysis paralysis and procrastination. From traditional coursework to specialized coaching, there's something to suit every learning style and career goal - so how can you best use your professional development budget in a way that will generate the results you’re looking for? Even better, will the program you select set you up for a raise, promotion, or next step in your career?
Executive coaching offers a personalized approach to professional development, providing one-on-one guidance from a seasoned professional. Coaches can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, set goals, and develop strategies to achieve them. While executive coaching can be expensive, it can be a valuable investment for those seeking significant career advancement.
Key benefits of executive coaching:
Considerations: Executive coaching can be extremely cost-prohibitive and may not fit into an average PD budget. Going the coaching route may require a larger investment of time than your schedule allows, and once the program ends (or your budget runs out) you may not have anything tangible to share with your leader.
Online learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Coursera offer a wide range of courses on various topics, from technical skills to soft skills. These platforms provide flexibility and affordability, making them a popular choice for many professionals.
Key benefits of online learning platforms:
Considerations: Online courses are great for flexibility and diversity of learning content, however, they may not adapt to your learning style, and you may not have the long-term results you would like to achieve.
For those seeking to validate their skills and knowledge, credentialing programs can be a valuable investment. These programs often require completing coursework, passing exams, and meeting specific experience requirements. While credentialing programs can be time-consuming and expensive, they can significantly enhance your career prospects and earning potential.
Key benefits of credentialing programs:
Considerations: Gaining a certification is an excellent investment in your career and professional development, and often requires a significant time commitment and rigorous testing. If you are seeking a lighter-weight PD option, this may not be for you.
Rhabit Reflect + Coaching offers a unique combination of leadership development, continuous feedback, and personalized coaching. This program provides a comprehensive approach to professional growth, helping you develop essential leadership skills, improve your self-awareness, and achieve your career goals.
Key benefits of Rhabit Reflect + Coaching:
Rhabit Reflect + Coaching is a cost-effective alternative to traditional executive coaching, providing many of the same benefits without the high price tag. When you choose Rhabit Reflect + Coaching for your professional development, you can unlock your full potential and drive your career forward.
Choosing the right option depends on your individual needs, goals, and budget. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select the professional development option that best aligns with your goals and maximizes your return on investment.
Learn more about Rhabit’s $350 Professional Development and Coaching package, designed to help individual leaders take their careers to the next level. Get started with your development journey here.