Advancing Your Career: How to Request Training

Written on July 28, 2024

John Crager, RA CMRP
 
Are you looking to enhance your skills in industrial planning, scheduling, or cost/project controls?
 
These roles are crucial in today's complex industrial landscape, and specialized training can significantly boost your career prospects. However, convincing your boss to invest in your professional development can be challenging.
 
Here's a guide on how to approach this conversation effectively:
 
1.      Assess Your Current Skills and Knowledge Gaps: Before approaching your boss, conduct a thorough self-assessment. Identify areas where you excel and where you need improvement. Research the specific skills required for industrial planners, schedulers, or cost/project controls analysts. This will help you articulate your training needs more precisely.
 
2.      Research Relevant Training Programs: Look for reputable training programs that align with your career goals. Consider factors such as course content, duration, cost, and potential certifications.
 
3.      Prepare a Strong Business Case: Your boss will want to know how this training benefits the company. Prepare a concise presentation that outlines:
 
  • How the skills you'll gain will directly improve your job performance
  • Potential cost savings or efficiency improvements for the company
  • How the training aligns with company goals and objectives
  • Examples of how similar training has benefited other employees or companies
 
4.      Choose the Right Time: Timing is crucial. Consider approaching your boss:
 
  • During your annual performance review
  • After successfully completing a major project
  • When the company is planning its budget for the next fiscal year
  • In a period of relative calm, not during a crisis or tight deadline
 
5.      Schedule a Meeting: Request a formal meeting with your boss to discuss your professional development. This shows that you're serious about the topic and allows for an in-depth conversation.
 
6.      Present Your Case Confidently: During the meeting:
 
  • Start by expressing your commitment to the company and your role
  • Explain how the training will make you more valuable to the team
  • Present your research on specific programs and their benefits
  • Be prepared to answer questions about costs, time commitment, and potential impact on your current workload
 
7.      Address Potential Concerns: Anticipate possible objections and have answers ready. Common concerns might include:
 
  • Cost: Suggest cost-sharing options or highlight the long-term ROI for the company
  • Time away from work: Propose ways to minimize disruption, such as online courses or weekend workshops
  • Fairness to other team members: Explain how your enhanced skills will benefit the entire team
 
8.      Be Open to Alternatives: Your boss may not agree to your exact proposal. Be prepared to discuss alternatives, such as:
 
  • Attending a shorter course or conference instead of a full program
  • Exploring online or part-time training options
  • Phasing the training over a longer period
 
9.      Follow Up: If your boss needs time to consider your request, schedule a follow-up meeting. In the meantime, continue to demonstrate your commitment through excellent work performance.
 
10. Show Gratitude and Share Knowledge: If your request is approved, express your appreciation. After completing the training, share your new knowledge with your team through presentations or informal mentoring. This demonstrates the value of the company's investment in you.
 
Remember, asking for professional development opportunities shows initiative and commitment to your career growth. Even if your initial request isn't approved, the conversation opens the door for future opportunities and demonstrates your ambition to your superiors.
 
By following these steps and presenting a well-thought-out case, you increase your chances of securing the training you need to advance your career in industrial planning, scheduling, or cost/project controls analysis.
 
John

#iAPSCC #Training #ProfessionalDevelopment #CareerGrowth #ContinuousLearning