Personal development

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You should make time to continually grow both professionally and personally because there will always be “life lessons” creating setbacks, challenges, and learning opportunities. Be intentional and constantly improve your knowledge and skills which start with knowing what you’re doing today (understanding your strengths and weaknesses), and what you want to do tomorrow and in the future.

You’ll encounter various scenarios including:

1. Did you start a new role at a new company? Or are you working towards a transfer, promotion, or other future career advancement opportunity?

2. Do you want to work on your intelligence quotient (IQ) such as problem-solving or emotional quotient (EQ) such as empathy?

3. Do you want to develop other life and/or career success skills such as improving verbal/written communication skills or learning a programming language like Python, Java, or C++?

4. Do you have a goal to get a degree or certification such as:

  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR),
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP),
  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA),
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or
  • Project Management Professional (PMP)?

5. Do you need continuing professional education (CPE) credits for a certification, are you in an industry with constant regulatory changes, or just want to keep current with best practices?

6. Are you interested in learning a new skill like playing chess, swimming, playing a musical instrument, or even doing Tai Chi? Do you remember the effort to learn how to drive?

Key To Lifelong Learning


Lifelong learning concept

You and the world are continually changing so the key is to develop a growth mindset of lifelong learning. Stephen Covey said, “The key to success is dedication to lifelong learning.” Create a personal development plan (PDP) for both professional and personal development. Set a goal and then start working towards it. When you achieve a goal, it can provide a sense of fulfillment boosting your self-confidence and even making you feel more energized. Once you’ve achieved the first goal, you’re poised to take on the next goal, the next, and the next. This can help you become more confident to adapt and overcome the next obstacle you’re faced with.

There are multiple options to learn including reading books/articles, watching videos/podcasts, going to webinars/workshops, or taking formal education courses. It may take some time to acquire certain skills and knowledge so be persistent. For example, if you’re trying to learn to speak French, you’ll need to take several lessons (and practice a lot) before you’re proficient.

Everyone learns differently so recognize how you learn best and seek out training resources that work better for you. Some would rather read materials on their own while others would prefer web-based or instructor-led training. Many organizations have a training department that offers specific professional development opportunities, including online, virtual, or in-person classes. Organizations might have “lunch and learn” sessions, a structured management trainee program, or internships. Outside the organization, you can seek knowledge at professional association meetings, industry conferences, or online courses like LinkedIn Learning or Udemy.

On the personal side, challenge yourself to learn something new or pursue a new hobby. In addition to some of the learning options mentioned above, there may be an app for that—Calm, Duolingo, or Yousician (to play an instrument). If you want to learn to swim, you can take lessons at your local pool. Consider learning something together with a friend, which will make it more fun. For example, having an “exercise buddy” can make it easier for both of you to commit to those early morning Zumba classes.

Supporting Employees' PDPs


Inspirational/motivational quote about personal growth and development

As a leader, it’s important to encourage and support your employees. Help each employee create a custom PDP based on what they’re interested in. Give them the tools that they need to thrive and succeed. This is a great coaching/mentoring opportunity so periodically check in to see how they’re doing. When you invest in the employee’s personal development, they are more likely to be and stay excited for what’s next.

For more information about the importance of personal development goals leading to lifelong learning, follow me on LinkedIn!

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Personal Development Goals Leading To Lifelong Learning



You've probably heard the term best fit or ideal candidate quite a bit if you've been applying for new jobs, submitting college applications, or simply sifting through your long-term career goals. Employers know who they want, and usually what they want, in the hiring process. However, sometimes that's not always clear on the other end and candidates can find themselves with many mixed messages.

Aspiring to be the perfect fit for a new position is a job in itself. After all, nobody's perfect, and everyone is unique. But what do you do when you've received the infamous rejection email for the umpteenth time? How will you possibly bounce back from not being the best fit after nailing the first or second interview, time and time again?

Here are a few ways to grow as a candidate and own not being the ideal fit:

Avoid Displacing Anger


Man gets mad after receiving a rejection email for a job he applied for

If you can't express appreciation or thanks to the hiring manager after receiving the job rejection, then you need to take a step back and go for a walk.

Never communicate with a recruiter, hiring manager, or anyone else in the hiring process while under the influence of anger. You may say something that could damage your reputation and cripple your career. It's okay to feel hurt after putting in time for an opportunity you really wanted, but save those emotional feelings for close friends or family.

Learn About The "Ideal Candidate"


Woman on laptop reads a letter of feedback from a hiring manager

Following the job rejection, it's okay to ask the hiring manager for some feedback about what you were lacking as a candidate, and how you can improve for future job opportunities.

When asking a hiring manager for feedback, it's important to be professional and not too pushy about it. If they don't respond, or decline to respond, just let it go. Not everyone is comfortable with or has time to give feedback.

However, if they do provide feedback, the information could be invaluable.

Not only is it good to know who you're competing against, but it's also good to assess what other candidates have in common, and what traits your dream company looks for in candidates. Why? Because you'll be able to better understand if you fit in.

For example, if you have a hard time taking charge of tasks on your own but find yourself applying for jobs that offer little structure or support, you might not be the ideal candidate for the job.

Don't Let Rejection Stunt Your Growth


Let's say you didn't get the design job of your dreams despite having a portfolio with years of obvious hard work. So what? Use rejection as a way to perfect your skills and toughen your skin. Maybe you were just one year shy of the necessary job requirements, or maybe your skill set needs some fine-tuning.

This is all perfectly okay. Sometimes we don't get the things we want because we're not ready. Remember, the company isn't saying "No, not ever." They're actually saying "No, not today." You could re-apply to the same company later on and get the job. It's important to keep the lines of communication open.

Don't let your job search get in the way of your personal growth. There are always opportunities available for professional development and upskilling—you just always have to be open to those opportunities.

Just because you weren't the ideal candidate initially, doesn't mean you won't be in the future.

Need more help with your job search?

Become a member to learn how to land a job and UNLEASH your true potential to get what you want from work!

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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What To Do When You’re Not The …

How To Take Advantage Of Online Career Skills Courses



There are a host of online courses available to help people level up in their careers or learn new skills entirely. But, to fully take advantage of online courses, you need to have your priorities in order and know exactly what you want to accomplish.

Some courses are offered for free, but there are also many that cost money. As you review available online courses and determine the ones worth taking, you may have to consider both finances and time constraints. Consider these four categories when choosing online courses:

Seeking Online Courses For Career Growth


Young businesswoman takes an online course to learn new career skills

Online courses that can help professionals do their job better are among the most valuable courses that you could take.

It's easy to work in a role for a long time, but not grow in it. You can't let that happen! If your career isn't growing, it's dying.

In order to make yourself an indispensable employee, it's important to keep up with industry trends and constantly take inventory of the skills you need to do your job exceptionally well. Some companies will even pay for their employees to take courses or certification programs if the employee can prove it will help them do their job better and ultimately benefit the company.

As far as choosing the right online courses, it helps to write out the specific areas where you're looking to upskill, and then research which courses check off the most boxes. LinkedIn Learning has a diverse course selection and the website Coursera has an extensive library of courses.

Beyond doing your job better and making yourself an indispensable employee, there's a certain sense of satisfaction that comes with always trying to get better.

Gaining Skills To Make A Career Change


Young professional takes an online course on her laptop in hopes of changing careers

Breaking into a new industry as a result of a career change or layoff is never easy. One of the first major steps a person has to do is an assessment of professional skills. This is where professionals determine what skills they have that are transferable to the new industry, and what skills they're lacking.

For example, a journalist looking to make a transition into marketing has important communication and writing skills that will transfer well into the industry, but would probably benefit greatly from a course or certification program in online marketing.

Just because a professional completes a course or certification doesn't mean they're qualified for the new industry. But, it may put them in a better position to secure a job interview, and it at least shows potential employers a willingness to learn.

If you were laid off and are unsure about your next career move, Work It Daily has free career quizzes that could point you in the right direction.

Gaining Extra Skills To Be A More Well-Rounded Professional


Man wearing headphones takes online career courses on his laptop at work

Taking courses to gain extra skill sets or to pursue an additional passion is a very advantageous position for professionals.

We all have interests beyond our careers, and sometimes our careers turn us on to additional interests. For example, a doctor with a passion for graphic design may take courses about how to develop a freelance business on the side.

Others may take courses to help transition into a new position at their workplace or climb the ladder at the company.

One of the best steps any professional can do is to get ahead of the curve and anticipate skills that they may need in the future. Taking this type of initiative will not only impress your employer but may also help you learn more about yourself as a professional to either excel at your current career or chart a new career course.

Taking Courses For Personal Enjoyment


Man and woman use laptop together to take online career courses

Not every online course that you take has to be career-related. Sometimes it's good to just take a course for fun or personal satisfaction. The number of courses available online runs the gamut. You can learn a new language, sit in on online lectures from university professors, discover basic life hacks, and hear from prominent people about their success stories.

Expanding your knowledge base can make you a more well-rounded and happier person. This translates well into all aspects of your life.

Online career courses are only a piece of the puzzle. The path to true career growth is putting together a plan for success, and Work It Daily can help!

We'd love it if you signed up for Work It Daily's Event Subscription! Get your career questions answered in our next live event!

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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Personal Development For Lifelong Learning



One portion of an employee’s personal development is work-related, but there is more. When you think of an employee’s personal development do you think of the skills for them to keep current, get a promotion, or transfer to another department? Improving core skills such as analytical abilities, critical thinking, and/or decision making? Skills to take on a leadership role and manage staff? Obtaining higher credentials?

Assuming so, organizational leaders should:

1. Make sure you understand what employees do and how it aligns with the company’s goals
2. Let employees do the job you hired them to do (leveraging their strengths and interests); nobody likes to be micromanaged
3. Challenge employees with stretch goals
4. Encourage employees to learn new things and give them the tools they need to learn:

  • Read books, magazines, trade journals, newsletters, blogs
  • Watch online videos, listen to podcasts
  • Take courses (in-person, online) and attend webinars, workshops, conferences
    • Company-provided training - Microsoft Office, application-specific courses
    • Hard skills such as an SQL class, foreign language
    • Effective communication skills - writing classes or speaking training (e.g., Toastmasters)
    • Other soft skills - time management, problem solving
    • Learning platforms - LinkedIn Learning, MasterClass
  • Leadership-related training
    • Supervisor skills, management trainee program
    • Some will want to manage people, but others won’t and that’s ok
  • Professional license, certification (e.g., PMP, CISSP), college degree
    • Don’t forget to support CPE (continuing professional education) requirements
  • Groups - professional associations, networking groups, etc.
  • Other - internships, volunteer opportunities

These are great work-related considerations, but there is more. There is a saying by Confucius: “I want you to be everything that’s you, deep at the center of your being.” Do you encourage employees’ personal development (and the key word is personal) to be the best version of themself? Have you asked them what is important to them? If it’s important to them, it should be important to you too.

Developing A Growth Mindset


Personal development is lifelong learning and it’s never too late to start. Encourage employees to develop a growth mindset and continue learning while working for the company. This includes opportunities to:

1. Enhance their quality of life such as health/fitness, self-care, self-confidence

2. Self-improvement to fully develop their character, capabilities, and potential
  • Develop a reading habit
  • Personal finances, personal creativity, or other personal-related learnings
  • “Work-related” skills listed above even if they aren’t relevant to their current role
  • Some organizations (such as Amazon, Chipotle, and Starbucks) have free or practically free college programs for front-line employees, which removes financial barriers

3. Realize their dream - maybe to become an entrepreneur and start their own business

How To Create A Custom Personal Development Plan For Employees


Online learning, education concept

Has your organization recognized that they need to think differently about developing employees? They should work together with the employee to create a custom personal development plan (PDP) based on what the employee is interested in (including both work and personal aspects). Four basic steps are:

1. Perform a self-assessment

2. Establish and prioritize goals (both short and long term) breaking up the goals into manageable tasks

3. Create a step-by-step plan identifying required resources, timelines, etc.

  • Identify objectives to reach the goals as well as strategies to achieve the tasks
  • Identify any weaknesses, development needs, barriers

4. Measure progress

  • Reward and celebrate accomplishments
  • Be prepared for setbacks - adjust and course correct

As a leader, be available when employees want to talk with you as well as periodically check in with them to ensure they have a good work-life balance. Both of these could be good coaching/mentoring opportunities.

When there is a comprehensive personal development plan, the employee is more likely to be and stay excited about what’s next (and stay with the organization longer). For more information about personal development, follow me on LinkedIn!

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Personal Development For Lifelong Learning

How To Prepare For A Career Discussion With Your Boss



In order to have a productive discussion about career growth with your boss, it is important for you to prepare and think through some key items ahead of time. You want to be in full control of your career path and the best way to do that is to approach your manager with confidence and conviction around your career growth goals.

To prepare for the discussion, start by answering some basic questions about yourself and your career:

Basic Career Questions You Should Ask Yourself


What is your personal branding statement with regard to your career?

This response should focus on what you hope to achieve in your career.

What are your values?

This response should include your top five values in life. The importance of answering this question is to be sure your career goals match your current values. For example, if you value innovation, that influences your career choice and objectives.

What are your motivators?

This response includes examples of what motivates you. Is it fast-paced work with short deadlines? Is it structured work or flexible work? As with your values, you want to be sure your career objectives align with your motivators.

Deeper Career Questions To Ask Yourself


Businessman thinks about career goals in preparation for a meeting with his boss

What is your short-term career objective?

This response should be about where you see yourself in the next 12 months. If you want to be in a new assignment, then you should state that, as well as what that assignment could be. If you want to remain in your current role but perhaps take on additional duties, then include that information in this question response.

What is your long-term career objective?

This response highlights your ultimate career growth objective. Some people do not know what this is, but if you do, it is important to share it with your manager. This helps your career plan to be tailored toward reaching your ultimate career goals.

Questions For Planning Career Growth


Manager goes over her employee's career goals

What are your strengths?

This response focuses on your current strengths that you can leverage as you grow in your career.

What are your developmental areas?

This is about the areas where you need to grow so you can reach your career objective.

What are you willing to do in the next 12 months to reach your career objective(s)?

This response should focus on some specific, tactical items (SMART goals) that you can work on over the next 12 months. Consider this your action plan to reach your objective.

After Preparing For A Career Discussion With Your Boss


Confident professional is ready to move forward after important career discussion with manager

After you have these questions answered and feel comfortable with your responses, it is time to share this information with your manager. Ask your boss for input on your career growth objectives and whether they feel these are reasonable and achievable.

Ask them for input on your strengths and development areas and also request their support of your action plan. This will aid in your ability to be successful in reaching your objectives.

By taking the time to answer these questions and prepare for your career discussion, it will be much more productive and, hopefully, a more engaging discussion for both you and your manager.

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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How To Prepare For A Career Discussion …

4 Things I Do To Earn My Leadership Every Day



A leader inspires and motivates others to do and be better. It’s about being a servant leader who focuses on the growth and well-being of others, regardless of title, bringing out the best in who they are.

Anyone can be a leader if they choose to develop the right skills. I know! I’ve made many mistakes along the way by focusing on the wrong things (i.e. micromanagement, poor communication, lack of flexibility, you get it). Once I realized that leadership requires being able to connect, motivate, inspire, and be present, I began to make a real difference in the companies and people I worked with.

Here are four things I do to earn my leadership every day.

Strong Communication


Strong communication skills include being a good listener as well as customizing your communication style to suit each situation and team member. This is an area I’m continuously working on. I have written down the following and keep it visible in my work area so that when I interact with anyone, I am conscious of my communication style:

  • Present, Attentive, & In The Moment
  • Ensure Active Listening
  • Ask Questions (Open-Ended, Clarifying, Probing) That Engage My Audience
  • Not Interrupting
  • Withhold Judgment
  • Share Information That Is Helpful
  • Brainstorm With My Team
  • Summarize My Understanding

A leader who has strong communication skills will build trust and improve morale across the organization.

Empathetic Leader


I grew up in the “kill or be killed” era of business and I’m glad it’s changed to a focus of connecting with people to form lasting relationships. I’ve learned to be a more empathetic leader who is able to understand the needs of others, their point of view, what they are feeling, and why they act the way they do. That said, I still have more to learn as empathy is an emotional and thinking muscle that becomes stronger with use. What I try to do with my daily interactions is:

  • Be Authentic
  • Show Genuine Interest In Others
  • Help Others Wherever I Can
  • Be Self Aware
  • Pay Attention To Body Language
  • Be Open To Feedback

Empathy is a key element of servant leadership and leaders who are able to show compassion tend to be the most admired and are also able to drive significant business results.

Embrace Change


​Change is accelerating and at an unprecedented pace. In order to be successful, leaders need to embrace change in this constantly evolving global environment. I for one love change. While it can be somewhat scary at times, it can also bring about many opportunities. I’ve worked hard to embrace change and lean into the unknown by focusing on the following in my work and personal life:

  • Being open to seeking and seizing new opportunities
  • Have a clear purpose, develop a plan and prioritize new opportunities
  • Remove obstacles that inhibit the path of progress to create quick wins
  • Seek continuous learning and feedback
  • Embrace risk-taking and the possibility of failure
  • Take action quickly

Leaders who embrace change tend to be more adaptable, flexible, innovative, strategic, and have engaged employees. Change creates transformation and growth.

Develop Your Team


I was taught how to do my job but not how to be a leader who manages and develops teams. So when I first started managing teams, I struggled with continuing to do things myself vs. learning how to develop and inspire people. Along the way, I’ve made a number of mistakes, but through that, I’ve had some amazing nuggets of success that I work hard to put into practice all the time.

  • Set clear goals and expectations
  • Focus on serving, teaching, & mentoring
  • Allow team members to problem solve
  • Invest in people: resources, training, education
  • Give direct feedback and ask for feedback
  • Celebrate the wins and be quick to praise
  • Foster collaboration and open communication
  • HAVE FUN!

I’ve found that to earn my leadership every day requires a continuous journey of personal development and grace. Great leaders inspire others, bringing out the best in them while also leading by example. I hope these tips motivate you to earn your leadership. You’ve got this!

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4 Things I Do To Earn My …