How Do You React When Your Company Offers You Professional Development Training?

By Juanita Ecker

I was recently hired by a Fortune 500 company to do one-on-one coaching for two individuals. One needed to brush up on his telephone skills; the other needed help with tradeshow etiquette as well as rapport building and conversation skills. They were relatively in the same boat, but it surprised me how different their reactions were to the prospect of training.

The first individual was excited about working with me and was eager to learn new material that he could use to further his career. The second individual, however, told me she didn’t need the coaching and went back to the HR manager to ask if she could take a “live” session instead of working with me over the telephone.

What impact do you think these employees’ actions and attitudes will have on their careers with this company? In my opinion, the second employee made a career-inhibiting move. When a company has hired an outside consultant to work with you, they must think you need some help, but they are willing to stick with you and foot the bill for further training. They are investing in your future with the company. When you refuse it, you diminish your chances for career advancement.

When you participate in a training session, are you someone who is open to new ideas or someone who sits there with their arms crossed thinking, “This is dumb”? How employees react to professional development training is a reflection on them. Management pays close attention to who wants to learn new skills and who doesn’t. They notice when an employee fills out an evaluation after a training seminar and claims they got nothing out of the session, or if they fail to list how they will be different after taking the class. What message do these actions send to upper management? Are you a team player or not? As we approach the New Year what type of employee will you be?

My advice: Resolve to be more open-minded. Don’t see the offer of professional development training as a slight to your skills. See it as an investment in yourself, and an opportunity to enhance your skills and boost your own leadership development.

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