The idea of professional development may seem superfluous to those focused on writing a professional resume to further their job search, and for others an unaffordable luxury from a financial and work perspective.
I know there were many times during my early years as an Executive Resume Writer that I told myself, “I can’t afford to take the time off from work or life to attend training” or “I just can’t swing the price of that conference right now.”
Having returned from four days devoted to professional development at the National Resume Writers Association’s annual conference, I can tell you with absolute certainty that should those doubts ever resurface, I will have several strong rebuttals.
I Can’t Afford to Take the Time Off
THE CHALLENGE: Leaving your day job for one day or several is no doubt stressful. Taking time off for professional development requires careful planning and preparation, and likely some extra work prior to leaving and returning.
OVERCOMING: Prepare for professional development just like you would going on vacation. See where tasks can be delegated, where others can wait, and still others that must be taken care of before your departure.
Be prepared to wake up early, stay up late and check in with email and voicemail throughout the day while you are at your conference or seminar.
ROI? At each and every conference I’ve attended, I’ve walked away with productivity and efficiency tools and tips that have saved hours of time off my week and month. When added all up, the time saved may likely equal the time spent devoted to professional development!
I Can’t Afford the Price
THE CHALLENGE: The reality is that for folks in the gig economy, from freelancers to contractors, time spent on professional development means hours without any income coming in.
OVERCOMING: If your goal is to attend an out-of-town conference, consider earmarking a few dollars each week or month toward professional development. Over time, it will add up and offset the costs of time unpaid.
Consider also online webinars, TED Talks, Podcasts, etc., that are often a fraction of the cost of live training, and can be completed after hours.
ROI: Many (myself included) walk away from professional development invigorated with new business plans, new pricing strategies, and new ways of maximizing business. The results, along with new knowledge, can often translate into higher compensation.
The Intangibles
Speaking again from my own experience, this year’s conference gave me the opportunity to learn from those who have been in the business longer than me, and to share some of my accrued wisdom with those looking to learn.
I walked away with a stronger network of industry professionals, many of whom I believe I can now call friend, and returned home struck by how many opportunities there are to continue learning.
Benefits of conferences - walk away with productivity and efficiency tools and tips that save hours of time. #NRWAconf2016 Share on XI also take comfort in knowing that while there are areas where I don’t know what I don’t know, I now have contacts to support me through the learning process.
Most importantly, my brain is spinning with ideas about adding value to customers who seek me out for writing a professional resume and revamping their LinkedIn profile.
The bottom line? The question should really be “Can I afford not to?” when it comes to professional development. Personally, I’m saving my pennies again for next year – and can’t wait for these new learning opportunities!
I wrote and shared this article with readers of Forbes earlier this month, and am pleased to share this week with my blog followers.
# # #
In need of some career advice, help writing a professional resume or a rebranded LinkedIn?
As the chief writer at Virginia Franco Resumes, offering customized executive resume and LinkedIn profile writing services for the 21st century job seeker, I’m happy to chat! Book NOW for your free resume consult.
VAFrancoResumes@gmail.com | www.virginiafrancoresumes.com | 704-771-8572