Ongoing professional development - with the possible exception of mandated safety and compliance education - is one of the most overlooked processes in the business world. The good news is that this problem can be easily addressed with a professional development strategy.

For example, a utility I spoke to recently had a plan -- and it was brilliant! About 12 years ago a board member encouraged them to create an ongoing training plan for all employees, and the results have been overwhelmingly positive. For example, anyone who becomes a manager at the utility, whether promoted from within or hired from the outside, must complete a series of five courses on things like coaching, leadership, and communication within two years of taking the position. Then, they must complete a certain number of professional development hours each year going forward. This is for ALL managers. Outside the management ranks, money is budgeted for professional development classes and everyone at the utility is required to complete a certain number of hours each year. Employees also get a certain amount budgeted to take online classes. They don't have to get permission, they just turn in the receipt and get reimbursed. The utility also offers quarterly, 90-minute training in their office on subjects about which the employees have expressed an interest. For example, one quarter the class was on personal finances, another quarter it was a class on Microsoft Excel. Last quarter the class was about how to talk to the rate payers about renewable energy.

Most importantly, the entire plan is budgeted and preapproved by the CEO and Board of Directors. Employees, supervisors and department heads don't have to beg for training approval because a PLAN is already in place. On-site employee training can make this process easier and more efficient.

For the employer, benefits of ongoing education for your employees include:

• Increase Retention

• Build confidence and credibility

• Make succession planning easier

• Re-energize your staff

• Improved efficiency

All of these factors translate into greater efficiencies and therefore greater profit. These days, just a 20% increase in employee retention could save thousands in searching for the right person, training them to do the job, and lost job efficiency while they learn the new role. Leadership classes for managers can help you achieve these goals.

Why not invest in your existing staff? Do you have a plan?

For assistance with creating your plan, or to review the training available through RWSmith ETC, contact us and visit this link for information about the classes offered.