Creating Personal Development Plans

Listen here

It’s the year end, and as always thoughts turn to the New Year, and what we want to achieve. For many of us in the corporate world, this may form a part of a review with your Line Manager within the business.

First of all, it’s important to identify where you currently stand within your field and then define where you would like to be after progression. This will give you a measure of the gap you are seeking to bridge through training and experience. This is the “step change” or modelling excellence.  As part of this, you must consider the organization that you work within, what are the opportunities, the parameters, and how you see yourself within the structure.

Think about the organisation and where you think that you can particularly benefit them…involve your manager, and speak with your colleagues, perhaps ask for feedback in specific areas. Bear in mind that the success of your personal development plan will hinge on your enthusiasm…think about what you are interested in and what you are good at.

Your manager will play an important part in this, as they are likely to have a better knowledge of the organisations business plans and thus how you may be able to add additional value.

This is your plan, so make sure you schedule regular reviews to share your progress and aspirations. Always remember…empowered and engaged employees help an organisation to achieve its objectives.
Make sure that your plan is SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely.
It is essential to have time limits set out in your action plan. The time frame needs to be realistic but similarly, challenging to maintain momentum and enthusiasm. Don’t stand still, and as each goal is achieved, identify new goals that can build on your progress.

Make sure that your plan has purpose, that it really means something to you. This becomes a live working document that tracks both your progress and your aspirations and can be developed through your career.
CBA!! Conceive, Believe & Activate…once you start to own your career, your journey has more purpose, and much more opportunity. Never stop trying to become “your best version of YOU”!

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”
Mark Twain