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15 Professional Development Ideas, Topics & Activities

By: Grace He | Updated: September 07, 2023

This is a list of professional development ideas.

Professional development ideas refer to topics and activities for employees to improve their skills and advance their careers. This growth may help employees gain more confidence in their abilities and improve their contribution to the company. Example topics include workplace conflict resolution, communications, and critical thinking.

This concept is an employee engagement best practice and a worker engagement strategy .

This article includes

• professional development topics
• professional development activities
• professional development ideas
• professional development workshops
• personal development ideas for work

Here we go!

List of professional development topics

Companies invest in their workers’ education and training to keep up with the competition and increase profitability. A team with a fantastic work ethic, problem-solving abilities, amicability, effective job prioritizing, and the ability to adapt to new situations will record high productivity and success. Professional development ideas for work include:

1. The Art of Storytelling (Top Choice)

Persuasive storytelling is a valuable ability for every employee who has to inspire action. In The Art of Storytelling, participants will learn to share personal narratives that both inform and entertain their audiences.

The Art of Storytelling offers the following features:

• a 120-minute session led by an expert facilitator
• the five essential elements of a captivating story
• effective strategies and techniques to maintain audience interest
• dedicated practice time for participants to refine their skills
• in-depth feedback provided by the hosts

For added convenience, we will meet you at your preferred venue with all the necessary materials. If you want to have a lasting impression in the workplace, then knowing how you may exert your influence and advocate changes is crucial. Companies looking for professional development activities that help their staff share engaging narratives should consider The Art of Storytelling.

Learn more about The Art of Storytelling .

2. Environmental sustainability

Environmental sustainability means using natural resources wisely now so that future generations can still meet their needs without problems. Sustainably conscious workers consider the environmental impact of activities, products, and processes. Then, these individuals find ways to reduce negative effects on the environment.

Environmental sustainability includes reducing waste, conserving energy, using eco-friendly materials, and adopting renewable energy sources. Businesses can be more sustainable by using eco-friendly practices, like reducing waste and saving energy. Firms should also be ethical in their sourcing, get involved in community projects, and regularly check how they impact the environment and society. This process is essential for fighting climate change, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

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• icebreaker games
• bingo cards

3. Time management ideas

Employees will be more productive and less stressed by learning time management skills. There may be more time to attend conferences and other training events after finishing projects on time if all team members have excellent time management abilities. Time management skills also directly affect an employee’s work-life balance.

Professionally and individually, time management skills are essential. Improved time management is necessary to meet deadlines, manage your workload, and reduce stress. An excellent time management tool is an in-depth awareness of your habits and routines. This process starts by noting how much time you spend on different tasks each day. Afterward, determine the tasks you can outsource, procrastination tendencies, and utilize tools for workload prioritization.

Check out this list of books on time management .

4. Professional certifications

Professional certifications are credentials individuals earn once they have demonstrated a specific level of knowledge, skills, and competence in a particular field or industry. Professional organizations, industry associations, or certification bodies typically grant these certifications. Certifications serve as formal recognition of an individual’s expertise and can enhance career prospects. Examples include the Project Management Professional certification for project managers, the Certified Public Accountant designation for accountants, and the Certified Information Systems Security Professional certification for cybersecurity professionals. Earning professional certifications can validate one’s qualifications and often requires passing an examination and meeting specific experience or education requirements.

Professional certifications are a highly beneficial addition to any professional development plan. These courses provide proof of expertise and skill in a specific field or industry. These certifications often require difficult training and exams, ensuring that individuals have up-to-date knowledge and skills.

5. Communication skills

Communication is the lifeblood of every company. Lack of communication means there is no shared knowledge, ideas, or diversity among employees. As the economy shifts and becomes more unpredictable, most forward-thinking organizations are emphasizing the need to have employees who are proficient communicators. The most crucial goal is to create an environment that encourages open communication among all team members.

As part of the professional development course on communications, workers will learn vital skills such as:

• Teamwork: Handling group efforts, team-building events, and shared objectives. Employees will get to work as a team instead of focusing on individual contributions. Our perspectives, abilities, and expertise are all unique. You can take advantage of this detail by promoting a diverse approach to problem-solving.
• Clear writing: When it comes to interacting with customers and employees, effective digital communication is often the only viable option for today’s companies to prevent miscommunication.
• Active listening: Open communication with coworkers and superiors is effortless when employees learn to listen attentively and comprehend the viewpoints of all parties.
• Conflict management: The ability to deal with difficult situations professionally. The application includes handling salary negotiations, complaints, or the departure of employees.
• Discretion and confidentiality: These skills demand being trustworthy and fair in all interactions with coworkers, from the lowest levels of the organization up to the highest levels. You should always maintain a professional demeanor while dealing with sensitive or private material.

Career success relies on your ability to communicate effectively with coworkers. As part of your professional growth, you can learn strategies to strengthen communication with coworkers, supervisors, suppliers, and customers. You should learn to adapt your discussion depending on the individual’s attitude and how to communicate using multiple means, such as in person, via email, or over the phone. Knowing how to read and being aware of body language are essential for effective communication. Additionally, employees can use communication skills outside of the office, so working on these skills is among the top personal development ideas for work.

Check out this list of communication-building activities .

6. Conflict management and resolution in the workplace

In the workplace, disagreements are a normal part of the team development process and can be beneficial. Leaders and workers should manage conflict effectively so it does not negatively impact corporate operations or the team’s relationships. Understanding the other party’s viewpoint and coming up with solutions that benefit both parties is vital in conflict management. Taking a stand for what is morally correct and ethical might lead to conflict in the workplace.

A manager’s ability to deal with sensitive issues is crucial, and this training will help them learn:

• Proper communication in stressful circumstances and being courteous yet persistent to reach a peaceful resolution.
• Self-assessment of an issue to devise tactful solutions
• Vital qualities like self-discipline, fairness, understanding, tolerance, and empathy to handle difficult circumstances while also demonstrating a strong work ethic.

Managers that are proficient in these three areas will be able to cope with more complex problems that need collaboration, interpersonal skills, and clear communication.

Here is a list of conflict-resolution activities .

7. Financial literacy

Financial literacy is the ability to understand and manage your finances effectively. The understanding involves having the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions. Financial literacy encompasses a range of topics, from understanding personal finance basics like creating a budget to more advanced concepts like investment strategies. Employees may learn about budgeting, saving, investing, and planning for the future. Being financially literate  empowers individuals to make wise financial choices, achieve their financial goals, and secure their financial well-being.

Financial literacy is an important topic for professional development because it helps individuals make smart financial choices, both in their personal lives and at work. Being financially literate helps individuals manage their own money better and helps them assist with financial planning and decision-making at their workplace. In today’s complex financial world, financial literacy is crucial for career growth and financial security.

8. Performance evaluations

Most times, a manager’s role includes doing performance evaluations. Therefore, every manager should understand performance management for workers. This ability entails assessing your team’s members, grasping their qualifications and experience, and placing them in roles that make the most of their abilities. Performance management may also include addressing any performance issues, developing an improvement plan, and addressing any bad conduct occurring in the workplace.

Regardless of one’s position in a company’s hierarchy, providing and accepting constructive criticism is essential. Your professional career will benefit if you become more adept at giving assessments to workers. An effective appraisal or feedback shows your appreciation for their efforts and your desire to see team members flourish in the future and offers improvement tips.

Although a manager handles performance evaluation, employees may sometimes need to provide constructive criticism to their colleagues during peer review. Employees will learn more about how to give and receive constructive criticism as part of the professional development program.

Here are tips for giving employee feedback .

9. Flexibility

In today’s dynamic corporate environment, individuals must continually improve their skill sets and be able to adapt to ever-changing working conditions. Employees in today’s fast-paced corporate environment benefit from this area of professional development. However, adaptation to a new environment and training needs many resources.

Some techniques to promote employee flexibility in professional development include network support, cross-training, business trips to other offices, peer learning and knowledge exchange, and switching departments.

Almost all companies experience change or transition, but a successful change implementation relies on the cooperation of all workers and supervisors. As the manager, it may be beneficial for you to learn how to prepare your team for change better. In addition, you, as an employee, can learn how to effect positive change or how to prepare for negative change.

10. Better customer service

Customer service training is one excellent example of employee development activities. Your firm and its customers will benefit greatly from your efforts to improve your customer service competencies. Customer service skills include patience, understanding, empathy, adaptability, and calmness under pressure. Professional development in customer service can equip employees with the skills needed to deal with difficult clients or how to make a customer’s bad experience better. Examples of training activities include conflict resolution and de-escalation training and courses in emotional intelligence and active listening. These skills include empathy, clear communication, excellent work ethic, and thick skin.

Here is a list of books about customer service .

11. Leadership

As a manager or a senior executive, developing strong leadership abilities is a worthwhile investment of time and money. People’s self-esteem and career prospects may improve and benefit from formal leadership education. Successful leaders in your company are likely to have the following characteristics:

• Determination
• Team Management
• Strategy Development
• Decision-making

If you want to hold a management position one day, you will benefit from participating in professional development training on management. This training will help you better understand leadership styles and expectations. Employers also do well to invest in leadership development to ensure future managers are confident and ready to lead.

Here is a list of leadership skills .

12. Hard and soft skills

Hard skills often correlate with the employee’s position. These skills are important for talent acquisition, payroll administration, and disseminating ideas from upper management to lower-level staff. Digital technology eventually pushes you to develop even the most competent people in these disciplines, regardless of their expertise. Short and in-depth seminars and courses are the greatest ways to learn. Staff members are more likely to embrace shorter and concise training, and the relevance lasts longer.

Soft skills deal with the way you go about your job. Communication, listening, and time management are a few examples of the many critical soft skills in today’s workplaces. Employers prioritize soft skills when looking to fill open positions because they contribute to an employee’s success at work.

13. Human resources software

HR departments benefit significantly from different people management tools. Individual employees benefit from this form of software, which helps disseminate and organize their personal and professional data. Corporations are increasingly relying on technology to arrange their workers’ personal information. Learning this skill will help HR personnel learn to integrate HR software in your department. You will have an advantage over your competition if you have some software experience. Also, managing paperwork and communicating with staff will be easier if you use specialized software.

Check out this list of HR software .

14. Legal and compliance

Legal and compliance training can be a valuable professional development idea for individuals and organizations.   Legal and compliance refers to adhering to laws, regulations, and industry standards that cover various aspects of an organization’s operations. For instance, companies may need to follow employment laws, intellectual property regulations, contractual obligations, data privacy laws, and industry-specific regulations. Organizations must have systems in place to ensure that they meet these legal requirements and maintain ethical business practices. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences, fines, reputational damage, and other negative consequences.

It is important to stay updated on relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards. Professionals can minimize legal risks, ensure ethical business practices, and maintain their organization’s reputation. Training in legal and compliance matters can also lead to career advancement. This training equips individuals with the knowledge to navigate legal issues and make informed decisions that protect both their interests and their organization’s bottom line.

15. Talent management

To be an effective leader, you must be able to motivate and manage. An influential manager must encourage their employees to go above and beyond the call of duty, solve challenging issues, and establish a high-performance work environment. Impactful leadership may significantly influence productivity and staff morale, ethics, and company-worker relations. Managers can improve their people management skills by addressing their emotional quotient, ensuring team collaboration, promoting effective communication and transparency, and learning empathy.

The importance of professional development

Professional development is honing your abilities and collecting more knowledge. These skills can help you succeed in your current position and even help you get a promotion or a new role in the future. Therefore, it is critical to engage in ongoing professional development throughout your career to stay updated in your field. Professional development comprises degree programs, certifications, training courses, seminars, or finding a career mentor.

Regardless of their individual skillset, specialty, or emphasis, all personnel benefit from ongoing professional development ideas. As employees’ duties and responsibilities evolve, they must adapt and grow. Soft skills are just as vital as hard talents. Organizations gain as much, if not more, from ongoing learning as do their workers.

Learn more about the importance of professional development .

Professional abilities tend to interconnect, and when you work on one skill, you are sure to enhance the others as well. Even if your primary goal is to improve your general skills, you may still advance your career by upskilling.

If you want to succeed in your career, you need to like what you do. Without this commitment, motivating others to do better will be difficult. Therefore, it is crucial to discover the satisfaction of learning new things and improving your job skills. You will be able to recognize your strengths and limitations more easily. Implementing a professional development program will help you and your employees develop, learn, and become better people.

For more references, check out training and development books  and career books .

We also have a list of the best corporate workshop ideas for employees .

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FAQ: Professional development ideas

Here are some frequently asked questions about professional development ideas.

What are professional development ideas?

Professional development ideas refer to specific training topics and activities for employees to improve their skills and advance their careers.

What are some good professional development ideas for work?

Good professional development ideas for work include management skills, communication, and performance management.

How do you hold professional development workshops for employees?

You can hold professional development workshops by performing a needs assessment to determine what areas require upskilling. You can then devise the training approach, perhaps through one-on-one or group sessions.

Author: Grace He

People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com. Grace is the Director of People & Culture at teambuilding.com. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

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People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com.

Grace is the Director of People & Culture at teambuilding.com. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

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7 Ways You Can Achieve Your Professional Development Goals

• 18 Apr 2023

Professional development is an essential—but often neglected—aspect of career growth. Burnout, mounting personal commitments, and shifting organizational needs are common reasons you might ignore your professional development goals.

Despite those barriers, many have taken measures to obtain the support they need to advance their careers. According to a report by Tandym Group , 86 percent of employees would change jobs if it meant more opportunities for professional development. A 2022 LinkedIn Global Talent Trends report found that most employees believe professional development is the best way to improve company culture.

If you want to advance your career, here’s a primer on what professional development goals are, why they’re important to your career growth, and how you can achieve them.

Access your free e-book today.

What Are Professional Development Goals?

Professional development goals are short- and long-term benchmarks that encourage career growth, increase productivity, and support your personal and professional interests. Identifying your goals provides a career roadmap and outlines metrics you can use to measure your progress.

While your goals should revolve around workplace development, consider your personal interests when drafting them. Doing so can ensure you’ll be motivated and stick to them long term.

Examples of Professional Development Goals

You can set numerous professional development goals, including:

• Developing new skills
• Improving communication
• Becoming a specialist
• Taking on a leadership role
• Earning a raise or promotion

Don’t be afraid to go too big or small with your goals. While many can lead to career advancement, setting smaller, more attainable benchmarks—like developing a new skill—can also benefit your career.

Why Professional Development Goals Are Important

Outlining your professional development goals is an essential step that can provide clarity and direction in your career. Understanding what you want and the benchmarks you need to reach is vital.

For example, if you want to become a specialist in your field, explore what certifications and skills you need to achieve that. Communicating your professional development plan to your manager and team can potentially help you access resources such as:

• Tuition reimbursement programs
• Certification opportunities
• Mentoring options

In addition to garnering support, setting professional development goals can motivate you to better yourself, giving you more purpose and increasing your job satisfaction.

According to Lorman Education Services , 41 percent of employees consider their organization’s career advancement opportunities very important to their job satisfaction. If you’re feeling unmotivated or overwhelmed in your career, professional development goals could be the missing link.

To achieve your professional development goals, do the following seven things to ensure you’re on the right track.

7 Ways to Achieve Your Professional Development Goals

1. take initiative.

Taking initiative in your professional development is crucial to advancing your career. Achieving your goals requires self-motivation.

Initiative comes in many forms, such as:

• Volunteering for leadership roles
• Requesting additional responsibilities
• Creating proposals for organizational change

According to an article in the Harvard Business Review , proactive people are more likely to be better performers, contributors, and innovators in the workplace. The article suggests taking initiative at work once you complete the following:

• Manage what you can take on: No matter how difficult your initiative (for example, adopting a different software system or creating documentation around a new process), determine whether it’s worth pursuing.
• Consider others’ roles: Since your initiative will likely impact others within your organization, seek their perspectives before acting on it.
• Align your actions with organizational goals: Not all change is good. Ensure your initiative won’t just benefit your professional development goals but the organization’s as well.

Taking initiative at work is fundamental to developing professionally. Try to capitalize on any opportunities that come your way and step outside your comfort zone.

2. Build a Strong Professional Network

Building a strong professional network is essential to furthering your career. Networking’s benefits include:

• Identifying new career opportunities
• Better understanding your organization or industry
• Fostering collaboration

Yet, there are several barriers you may encounter. One of the most common is understanding who holds the most value within your organization. Creating a power map —a visualization of who has more or less power to help navigate your work environment’s politics and gain influence —is one way to overcome this.

According to the Harvard Business School Online course Power and Influence for Positive Impact , those with the most power in your organization are called “central individuals.” They’re often the primary sources of information, resources, and industry advice.

Through power mapping, you can identify those individuals and what resources they control to ensure your network serves your professional development needs.

3. Ask for Feedback

Feedback can be controversial in the workplace. Research shows that 44 percent of managers are stressed about delivering negative feedback, and 21 percent admit they try to avoid it altogether.

Although many managers fear feedback’s effects on employees and team morale, it’s vital to professional development. According to Zippia , 65 percent of employees desire more feedback at work. Therefore, it’s important to take an active role in receiving feedback.

You must also understand how to process feedback in a way that benefits your career growth.

According to the Harvard Business Review , processing feedback is more than just implementation; it requires continuous reflection, conversation, and practice. Feedback can help you identify your strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement and directly influence your professional goals.

Related: How to Give Feedback Effectively

4. Reassess Your Time Commitments

Continually assess your time commitments to ensure you can realistically achieve your professional development goals.

For example, while learning a new technical skill can reap several professional benefits, it can also take up a lot of personal time. Maintaining work-life balance can help you better understand how your goals fit into your schedule.

By practicing effective time management skills , you can work toward your goals without impeding other commitments.

5. Learn from Other Departments

Beyond building a strong professional network, reach out to members of other departments or teams to learn different skills, processes, and organizational dynamics.

There are several benefits to learning from your colleagues. For one, it can help keep open lines of communication. This is particularly important when working remotely .

You can also gain a holistic view of your company. By connecting with people who have different priorities, challenges, and resources, you can understand the bigger picture when it comes to organizational needs. This is particularly valuable if you want to become an effective leader .

6. Further Your Education

Furthering your education is another way to achieve your professional development goals. Earning a master’s degree—such as an MBA —or a professional certificate are just a couple of options.

If, at first glance, it doesn’t seem like pursuing additional education will fit into your schedule, online options can provide the flexibility you need as a working professional.

Specialized online courses—like HBS Online’s offerings —can take only a few weeks and help you learn new business skills and strategies that enable you to achieve your professional development goals.

Related: What Is the Value of a Certificate from HBS Online?

7. Regularly Review Your Progress

Reviewing your progress toward your professional development goals is often referred to as self-assessment , which is closely related to self-awareness in the workplace.

“Self-awareness is about developing your capacity to sense how you’re coming across,” says HBS Professor Joshua Margolis in the online course Leadership Principles . “To have undistorted visibility into your own strengths and weaknesses—and to be able to gauge the emotions you’re personally experiencing.”

Create a document that tracks your weekly or monthly progress to help gauge how long it will take to achieve your goals. You can also use it to record achievements that help you advocate for yourself during performance reviews.

Work Toward Your Professional Development Goals

Advancing your education is one of the most effective ways to develop professionally.

For instance, HBS Online’s certificate courses can help you gain applicable business skills, build your confidence, and jumpstart your career advancement —no matter your goals.

Do you want to start working toward your professional development goals? Explore our online course catalog —featuring programs ranging from leadership training to financial accounting—and download our free guide on how to advance your career with essential business skills .

About the Author

10 Emerging Skills for Professionals

Ten critical soft skills leaders should maximize to improve their leadership capabilities and successfully advance their careers.

Harvard DCE Professional & Executive Development

The professional world is always evolving, and today that evolution is largely spurred by advances in technology. Despite this, today’s emerging skills are more about emphasizing innately human capabilities than manipulating machines.

The top emerging skills identified in the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs report suggest that many professionals should look to developing their soft skills to enhance existing expertise.

Below, we detail these increasingly important workplace skills and why employers will be looking for them on your resume.

1. Analytical thinking and innovation

Keeping your analytical skills razor sharp is fundamental to building and evaluating arguments. Plus, even as automation and artificial intelligence take over certain jobs , the uniquely human ability to think critically will never fall out of trend.

Build on your ability to use logic and reason to create inventive solutions with professional development. Start with foundational knowledge of philosophy, debate, and critical thinking, or dive deep into an advanced program on strategy.

Learning how to slow down and analyze issues with an observant eye will help you see things with a clear perspective. Analytical thinkers are savvy and agile in their jobs, and by focusing on this skill in your professional development, you’ll be primed to move forward in any industry.

Search all Leadership and Management programs.

2. Active learning and learning strategies

Whether you’re on the road to promotion or are considering a career change, the ability to seek out and digest new information is valuable. Think of your goal like the X at the end of a map, and the winding path is the new knowledge required to get you there.

Employers are always looking for people who will continue to prioritize professional growth. And there are many avenues to do so. Challenge yourself by taking on a new project at work, registering for a class, or attending seminars and workshops. In your current day-to-day life, learn from your own mistakes and the people around you by staying curious, analytical, and open-minded.

3. Creativity, originality, and initiative

Creative thinking can pave the way for lucrative opportunities, such as finding untapped markets, creating efficiencies, or launching new initiatives. Hone your imagination with classes on innovation or entrepreneurship, and turn your creativity into a powerful asset by learning how to wield it.

People with creative thinking skills can augment them by learning how to determine which opportunities are worth the risk, and acting on them. Your ability to translate imagination into action could be what earns you your next great job.

4. Technology design and programming

The future is tech, so learning how to design and program software is a skill that will stay in high demand. For business leaders and managers, knowing how to speak the language is important for communicating with your team.

Whether you’re looking to become a programmer or engineer, or simply want to improve your digital literacy, there are many options at your fingertips. From self-guided programs to bootcamps to online and on-campus courses, opportunities to learn about technology and programming abound.

5. Critical thinking and analysis

Of all the potential buzzwords that exist in corporate lingo, “critical thinking” is a phrase you should pay attention to. It’s a skill that’s gaining a lot of attention and has evolved to encompass the ability to think thoroughly and deliberately in your daily tasks.  

Fortunately, this is a skill you can hone over time. This tool is especially valuable in roles where you’re having to make decisions that impact an entire organization, such as corporate strategy and marketing.  

6. Complex problem-solving

Leaders in every industry are faced with problems both simple and complex. Those who thrive are adept at taking multifaceted issues and breaking them down into digestible pieces.

According to the Harvard Business Review, thinking deeply about complex problems entails three practices: challenging your convictions, taking on the biggest problems early in the day, and paying attention to your instinct.

7. Leadership and social influence

Being a hard-working and inspiring leader requires years of practice that aren’t easily acquired. However, there are ways to bolster the skills you’ll need to take your managerial prowess to new heights. Social influence, for example, is how new CEOs are guiding their businesses .  

Rather than relying heavily on metrics and economic growth, new leaders are leaning on human capital. By knowing how to encourage ambition on a personal level, you’ll be able to motivate from the ground up.

8. Emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is gaining traction on a global scale. It’s about knowing how to look inward to gauge your self perception. For managers, the value of emotional intelligence is in being able to relate to others and anticipate their needs.

Again, as A.I. and technology become more prevalent, uniquely human attributes — such as emotional intelligence — will become increasingly important for employers.

9. Reasoning and problem-solving

You will always confront obstacles in the workplace, but what if you could conquer them with a little more precision? Problem-solving is a skill that can be refined and strengthened. In doing so, you create improved efficiencies for yourself and your organization.   

First thing’s first: do you know what kind of thinker you are? If you’ve never taken the time to consider this question, give it a shot. Once you’ve analyzed how you tackle problems, you’ll know exactly where your own weaknesses lie. Then, it’s a matter of deciding whether you’re willing to invest in your abilities as an expert problem solver.

10. Systems analysis and evaluation

All organizations have systems in place to help them run. You can make your skills more marketable with a deeper understanding of operations and how they can be improved. This skill is perhaps most often associated with IT roles, where your focus is the computer systems that keep the corporate engine turning.  

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , you do not need to be savvy in tech to master this skill set. In fact, having a background in business or the liberal arts is great, as long as you’re willing to learn new subjects.

Invest in your future

There is no shortage of opportunities for professional development. Once you’ve determined the areas that need strengthening, take the leap. You’ll be thanking yourself later.

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About the Author

3 effective strategies to manage workplace conflict.

Learn to improve dynamics for yourself and your team—and together you can deliver the results you strive for.

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21 Professional Development Examples

Professional development refers to the continuous process of improving upon your professional knowledge and skills throughout your career.

It can include any activities that might improve your productivity and ability to do your job, or soft skills like leadership and communication in the workplace.

Professional development activities can include both formal learning (e.g. gaining certifications) and informal learning (e.g. reading industry books).

Professional development is seen as important because we need to continuously adapt to the evolving demands of our jobs, particularly in the context of new research or technologies.

Definition of Professional Development

Professional development encompasses a wide range of activities designed to enhance an individual’s skills, knowledge, and effectiveness in their chosen profession.

The concept is succinctly defined by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) as:

“…actions that (1) improve an individual’s knowledge, skills, and/or competencies, (2) are acquired by such individuals – teachers, principals or other education personnel – to support better professional practice, and (3) are expected to have an impact on positive educational outcomes.” ( OECD, 2019 ).

We generally engage in professional development in order to adapt to technological advancements, achieve career progression, and enhance our job performance.

Professional Development Examples

• Leadership Training Course : This refers to engaging in activities that enhance your ability to manage, guide, motivate, and support your team. Leadership training typically involves training in positive communication skills , inclusivity, and mentorship. A leadership training course might be useful for someone in management roles or those aspiring to move into such positions.
• Project Management Training : One example of this is getting your Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. These sorts of certifications help people to learn to manage large and complex projects – with multiple people along the workflow – from inception to completion. Skills that you could develop in this sort of training include planning abilities, risk management skills, quality control (especially important as you scale the project), and team coordination.
• Certification Courses : Certifications are often embraced by workplaces because there’s a recognized accreditation at the end of the PD. It will involve a structured learning program, potentially offered by a local university or community college, that results in an additional formal qualification that will be useful for your job role. Certifications are especially valuable in highly-regulated fields and unionized fields, where your additional certifications may also be tied to pay rises.
• Advanced Degree Pursuit : Perhaps the most ambitious version of professional development is to go back to college (perhaps online or at night school) in order to get an advanced degree such as a Masters or PhD. This may also a research-based component where you can engage in action research that seeks to break new ground on research directly related to your job role, making you a world expert in your topic.
• Mentorship Programs : Seeking out mentorship can be one of the best ways to advance in your skills and abilities. A mentorship program allows for learning from experienced and senior professionals within your career area. It can provide you with the tacit knowledge and skills that are hard to obtain from a formal course. Additionally, mentors can provide valuable wisdom , guidance (often helping you to avoid mistakes they made), and networking possibilities.
• Conferences and Seminars : Conferences can be very expensive, but they’re also often the spaces where you learn the tips, insights, and tricks of the most cutting-edge people in your field, that can dramatically improve your skills and abilities. In my experience, it’s the conversations in the hallways that are most valuable about conferences more than anything else. Moreover, you could put your hand up to present at these events, which opens up even more networking opportunities .
• Workshops : Workshops provide hands-on learning experiences and are more focused on practical skills than conferences and webinars. The benefit of a workshop is often that it has a very clear goal or skillset that’s being worked on, and they often facilitate active learning opportunities (where you ‘learn through doing’).
• Webinars: Webinars are online seminars that have become increasingly popular since the move to online work and learning. Their great benefit is anyone can access this PD no matter where they are in the world. This makes them great for people who work in rural and remote areas. Attending webinars can showcase a proactive approach to learning and staying updated with industry trends.
• Professional Networking: Networking involves intentionally reaching out to other professionals in the field to start sharing ideas and knowledge. I’ve been surprised in my time at the number of colleagues in other institutions who reach out via email to me and simply ask to chat, hoping that it would lead to collaborations, partnerships, and mutually beneficial opportunities. The more you do this, the more doors will open for you in the future.
• Mastermind Groups: Mastermind groups are usually small, trusting groups of professionals who want to share ideas and brainstorm on a regular basis in non-judgemental spaces. It involves meeting with like-minded professionals to discuss challenges, successes, and strategies. They offer a collaborative environment for problem-solving and creative thinking .
• Reading Industry Publications : Keeping up with the latest news, trends, and research in your field can be extremely beneficial. This is a simple, low-risk PD idea, that you can implement right away – get a subscription to an industry magazine (it’s a good one if you need last-minute evidence that you’re interested in PD before your performance review!).
• Shadowing : Shadowing involves observing another professional in your field in order to obtain new insights into how to go about your job. It can be surprising the amount of small tips and tricks you can obtain by simply following someone through a process that you do regularly, to see how they have different shortcuts and methods that you hadn’t thought about.
• Conducting Research : Spending time to conduct research on open databases like Google Scholar can lead to a deeper understanding of topics in your field, reveal flaws on your own practices, and open your eyes to differing approaches.
• Learning New Software : With the constant development of new technologies, and especially with the rapid rise of AI tech, employees need time to sit down and work with (dare I say, play with) new software that could be implemented into our workflows to improve quality or speed up processes.
• Joining Professional Organizations : Professional organizations – ideally ones that are ‘official’ and recognized as the peak bodies – can provide you with access to resources, networking events, and advancement opportunities that are exclusive to members.
• Public Speaking and Presentation Skills Training : Sometimes, putting your hand up to participate in a public speaking event or to give a presentation may help you to achieve professional development. In these contexts, you’ll want to select something to research or focus on, then develop the depth of knowledge that you’ll be able to present interesting facts, data, and insights to others. This can also help to position you as a thought leader.
• Volunteering in Your Field : Volunteering opportunities can give you new experiences and new insights that help you develop soft skills like empathy, while developing a deeper understanding of other people’s lived experiences. For example, a CEO who volunteers to help low-level staff in need can suddenly get insights into the day-to-day struggles his staff experience.
• Cross-Training: Working in a different department or roles within your organization can broaden your understanding and give you new skills, while also benefitting the organization because cross-collaboration often leads to better understanding and eventually smoother interactions during cross-departmental projects.
• Internships: If you are early in your career or changing fields, internships can provide valuable on-the-job training. I often encourage my students to participate in internships because this gives them a huge leg-up when going for new jobs – not only can you develop practical skills, but you can demonstrate your initiative beyond other students who don’t bother to do internships during college.
• Cultural Competency Training : This is becoming increasingly important in global businesses and diverse work environments. In fact, most large workplaces now mandate this sort of training, which many of us will know by another name – diversity and inclusion training .
• Career Coaching: Getting a career coach was something that was really useful for me. Mine was specifically a business coach, who helped me through not only the regular bottlenecks in business, but also the mindset issues faced in my role as a business owner.
• Podcasts: I had to include this one because I do this every single day, and it’s my own informal PD that has kept me abreast of the latest trends in my industry. I go for a 45-minute walk, put on a podcast, and listen to what the movers and shakers are doing in the industry. Case studies, insights, and tips-and-tricks work to inspire me and keep me motivated, all while I’m getting some exercise!

Professional Development Goals Examples

In your workplace self-performance review , you’ll often be required to state what your goals are for professional development. Here are some “I will…” statements that you can use for inspiration:

• “I will obtain a project management professional (PMP) certification to improve project execution skills.”
• “I will attend a leadership development seminar to enhance team management capabilities.”
• “I will enroll in a public speaking course to boost presentation and communication skills.”
• “I will complete a master’s degree in my specialized field to deepen my professional expertise.”
• “I will participate in a mentorship program to learn from industry veterans and develop my professional network.”
• “I will attend at least three industry conferences or seminars this year to stay updated with the latest trends and innovations.”
• “I will enroll in a workshop on the latest software relevant to my profession to increase my efficiency at work.”
• “I will join a professional organization related to my field to access additional resources and networking opportunities.”
• “I will participate in a mastermind group to improve my problem-solving skills and gain different perspectives on industry challenges.”
• “I will learn a new language to enhance my communication skills in our increasingly global business environment.”

What is the Importance of Professional Development?

Professional Development plays a pivotal role in both personal career growth and the overall success of an organization.

First and foremost for you, the employee, professional development will help you to be more productive, become more of an expert in the field, and therefore hopefully command a higher wage and better job positions long-term.

But, for your employer, it is also the engine that drives the evolution of industries by keeping the workforce updated, innovative, and effective.

One of the primary benefits of professional development is the enhancement of skills and knowledge that leads to improved job performance and improved employee retention. For example, Lorman argues that employee retention improves 30%-50% when an organization has successful professional learning programs.

Moreover, professional development opportunities can boost employee satisfaction and retention.

According to LinkedIn’s 2018 Workforce Learning Report, 94% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their career development (LinkedIn, 2018).

Professional development is therefore a win-win for individuals and organizations alike. It empowers employees to reach their full potential while simultaneously enhancing the productivity and profitability of the organization.

The above ideas for professional development and learning can hopefully give you an insight into ways you can develop your professional skills, freshen up your skills on your resume , and put you in a great position for a raise or internal promotion. Ideally, select PD opportunities that will give you some tangible workforce skills that you can apply immediately, and, a recognized accreditation that you can carry with you for the rest of your career.

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Animism Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 10 Magical Thinking Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Social-Emotional Learning (Definition, Examples, Pros & Cons)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ What is Educational Psychology?

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Your guide to personal and professional development

January 23, 2022 The first month of the year is almost over, but it's never too late to start setting your personal and professional goals. Whatever those may be, making a plan and getting intentional is an essential first step. Kick off 2022 with a growth mindset; the work you do today could set you on your path to CEO Excellence —preorder this forthcoming McKinsey book for insight on the six mindsets that set the best leaders apart from the rest. Or dive deeper with key insights on topics that could put you on the path to personal and professional development, including:

• developing new skills for continuous learning
• seeking or providing mentorship
• setting your leadership priorities
• taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being

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We Explore 10 Professional Development Activities for a High-Performance Work Culture

Did you know? We have over 3,000 mentors available right now!

Helpful summary

• Why you can trust us: Here at MentorCruise, we have helped dozens of professionals unleash their full potential. Mentors like Myke Metzger , Giuseppe Santoro , Aziz Mamatov , and Jordi Scharloo show how our mentorship programs can make your employees excel in performing their job roles.
• Why this is important: Familiarizing different professional development activities allows you to plan and organize events that help your teams stay competitive and complete their job more effectively.
• Action points: Learn this guide to find the best professional development activities that fit your team members' professional needs and business goals.
• Further research: We invite you to explore our personalized mentorship programs that can help your team members perform at their optimal level. You can also visit our blog and case studies to learn more about how our mentorship programs can positively impact your team’s performance.

Need help finding professional development activities?

Professional development activities can be a boon to your team’s performance. Not to mention, they’re a great way to increase company morale.

So, why aren’t you implementing them yet?

Here at MentorCruise , we understand the importance of continuous learning and development for professionals, and we're here to help your team make the most of it. 

So, in this guide, we will share 10 effective professional development activities that will help your workforce perform at the highest level.

Why listen to us?

Our personalized mentorship programs have already helped professionals across several industries unlock their potential to perform better in their teams!

Some of our clients include professionals and employees of famous companies like Nike, Amazon, EA, and Netflix.

Our success stories, case studies , and client testimonials show how our platform can enhance the performance and productivity of your workforce.

If you are still on the fence, you might want to know that we have an average rating of 4.4/5 on Trustpilot , a 4.9/5 rating on Product Hunt , and hundreds of highly skilled mentors ready to impart their knowledge, expertise, and real-life experience in their respective fields.

What are professional development activities?

Professional development activities, also known as ProfDev activities are events that help professionals stay current with industry trends and improve their overall job performance. 

In most cases, ProfDev activities include structured courses , workshops, informal networking, and self-directed projects. Each activity is meant to improve your team’s skills and knowledge. 

Why are professional development activities important?

Here are five benefits of professional development activities for your business:

1. Enhanced employee performance

Professional development activities equip your employees and team members with new skills and knowledge that can directly enhance their ability to perform their roles. 

This leads to increased productivity and efficiency in the workplace which is highly beneficial for the success of your organization.

2. Improved employee satisfaction and retention

Providing opportunities for professional development shows your team members that you, as their superior, are willing to invest in their growth and success. This can lead to higher levels of job satisfaction and increased loyalty in your organization. 

3. Encourages innovation and adaptability

ProfDev activities encourage professionals to think creatively, adapt to new technologies and trends, and find innovative solutions to various job-related challenges. 

This in turn effectively fosters a culture of innovation within the organization which offers numerous benefits, including a competitive advantage, increased work efficiency, enhanced customer relationships, and improved talent retention. 

4. Boosts employee morale and engagement

Providing your team with various ProfDev activities can boost employee morale, a sense of accomplishment, and career progress. 

This can make your team feel valued, leading to long-term success and sustainability for an organization.

5. ProfDev attracts top talent

A reputation for investing in employee development can make your business more attractive to top talents in your industry.

Potential employees are more likely to be drawn to organizations that offer opportunities for growth and development.

And now without further ado, below are the 10 activities for professional development that will bring out the best of your team.

10 professional development activities to do with your team

Here’s a list of ten professional development activities that your team can participate in to enhance their work performance:

1. Mentorship

Mentorship is a personal developmental relationship where a more experienced or knowledgeable person helps guide a less experienced or knowledgeable person. 

In the case of workplace mentorship, the "mentor" gives advice, shares knowledge, and offers support to the “mentee” on how to properly perform their job in the company. 

There are two types of mentorship, internal and external.

Internal mentorship

Internal mentorship typically occurs within an organization where both the mentor and mentee work. This mentorship is often structured and supported by the organization's HR department or a specific mentorship program.

In an internal mentorship, the mentor shares specific knowledge, including the organization's culture, processes, and politics. These insights can be invaluable in guiding new team members in how to perform their tasks and duties within the same company.

External mentorship

In an external mentorship, the mentor and mentee can be from different organizations, with different employers. Professional associations, informal networks, and online programs like MentorCruise often facilitate external mentorships.

At MentorCruise, we offer professionals a unique platform where they can connect with experienced mentors in their industry and related fields. 

Our mentors can help your team navigate various professional challenges at work, set realistic career goals, and develop strategies for achieving them.

You can consider the case of Monica , and how our mentorship program enabled her to overcome her work challenge and keep up with the expectations of her team at Flutter. Another good example would be Clara and how she gained confidence at work with the help of her mentor Sandrina .

And guess what? MentorCruise also offers team mentorship programs that come with a 7-day free trial!

2. Online courses

The digital age offers endless opportunities for professionals to continue learning. The good thing about online courses is they allow professionals to learn new knowledge or gain new skills at their own pace.

Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn provide a plethora of online courses to enhance the skills and knowledge of your team.

3. Workshops and seminars

Allowing your employees and team members to participate in workshops and seminars is a great way for them to gain hands-on experience and insight into specific topics that can enhance their job resume. 

These events are often interactive, allowing each attendant to ask questions and engage directly with experts and peers in their field.

For instance, someone who works in project management can attend workshops for effective project management where they can learn efficient ways for scheduling, budgeting, and team management.

For your employees working in the IT department, they can attend workshops and seminars about new technology, machine learning, AI, or coding. 

Providing your team with relevant workshops and seminars will provide them with practical skills they can use to become more efficient and productive at work right away.

As a mentorship platform, MentorCruise also has mentors who can offer specific training sessions akin to workshop and seminar environments.

4. Professional certifications

Earning certifications can significantly enhance your team’s expertise, making them more effective and authoritative in their roles. You’re killing two birds with one stone by boosting employee confidence and proficiency at the same time.

For example, as a project manager, you can earn a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from a recognized provider which will showcase your expertise and commitment to project management.

The same is true for your other team members. As an employer or team manager, you can support employees in obtaining relevant professional certifications that can enhance their credibility and qualifications.

5. Networking events

Attending industry conferences, meetups, and other events can connect your team with like-minded professionals and industry leaders. 

These events will give them access to invaluable information about the latest industry trends which can be beneficial for your organizational operations.

For example, consider sponsoring your tech crew in joining relevant networking events such as the annual Tech Connect Conference. This event is a gathering of various tech professionals from all over the globe, sharing insights, trends, and technologies. 

6. Job shadowing

Job shadowing gives employees an opportunity to observe and learn from colleagues in different roles or departments.

This activity is especially useful to broaden your team’s understanding of the organization, and what their daily duties and workflows are like. It’s also the key to avoiding organizational silos. 

For example, if you just hired a new software developer, you can ask them to “shadow” a veteran software developer in your team. 

This experience can give them a real-time view of their role in your company and how to perform their task more efficiently.

7. Volunteering

This professional development activity for your team involves finding opportunities for your employees to gain work experience in low-pressure environments.

For instance, you can ask your team to offer their services to their local community and job fairs. By doing so, they will be able to gain real-life experience completing tasks related to their profession while contributing to a good cause.

Volunteering is a great learning experience that enhances personal growth and showcases your team and organization’s commitment to social duty.

8. Book clubs

Book clubs provide opportunities for learning, knowledge sharing, and critical thinking. 

By reading and discussing books on various topics, employees obtain new insights and perspectives, build a culture of continuous learning within the organization, and foster team building.  

Moreover, book clubs are accessible and flexible, allowing employees to participate at their own pace and choose books that interest them. 

Additionally, running a book club is cost-effective, making it a valuable addition to an organization's professional development initiatives.

9. Peer teaching

Teaching others helps reinforce your employee’s own professional knowledge and skills. Not to mention, it can be an enlightening experience as it facilitates cross-departmental collaboration.

For example, if your team is composed of software developers, they can lead a coding boot camp at your company where they would teach newbies and other colleagues various programming languages. 

This peer teaching experience can solidify their knowledge in their field, and improve their public speaking and leadership skills. 

Peer teaching can also deepen the camaraderie between your team and their colleagues in your company.

10. Internal workshops and lunch-and-learns

Conducted by internal or external experts, internal workshops and lunch-and-learns are the perfect way to provide development opportunities while still using everyone’s time efficiently. 

These sessions focus on topics relevant to your organization, offering your employees and team members valuable learning opportunities. 

For instance, utilizing internal experts fosters collaboration and taps into existing knowledge within your workplace, while external experts bring fresh perspectives and industry trends. 

Moreover, internal workshops and lunch-and-learn sessions are cost-effective, making them an attractive option for employers and managers seeking to provide ongoing training and development for their employees.

Best practices for creating professional development activities

When creating professional development activities for your team, consider these best practices:

1. Align activities with organizational goals

Ensure that the professional development activities you launch for your team align with the organization's overall goals and objectives. This ensures that your efforts are focused on areas that will benefit both your employees and the organization in the long run.

2. Tailor professional development activity to individual needs

Recognize that each team member has unique skills, interests, and development needs. 

It’s your responsibility as a manager to offer a variety of activities and opportunities for employees to choose from based on their individual goals and aspirations.

This will allow them to commit and enjoy the full benefits of the activity.

3. Provide support and resources

Ensure that employees have the support and resources they need to participate in development activities. Don’t leave them stranded for help.

Examples of support include access to training materials, mentorship, or financial assistance for certifications.

4. Measure and evaluate

Regularly measure the impact of professional development activities on employee performance and organizational goals. Use this feedback to refine and improve future development efforts.

5. Promote continuous learning

Encourage a culture of continuous learning by offering a mix of ongoing development opportunities. This could include workshops, courses, conferences, or on-the-job training.

Streamline professional development with MentorCruise

Professional development plays a critical role in your team’s workplace performance.

With the ongoing changes in the modern-day workforce, ensuring that your team stays competitive in terms of skills and knowledge is a must to run a sustainable and successful business.

We gave you all the information you need to run an effective professional development program at your workplace. Now it’s your time to shine.

Now, if we could only pick one activity, it would definitely be mentorship. In our opinion, it’s the key to unlocking the full potential of your team. 

With personalized mentorship tailored to the specific professional needs of your employees, MentorCruise can equip your team with the necessary skills and knowledge to help you achieve your business goals. 

So what are you waiting for? Create a high-performing team of professionals with our team mentorship program at MentorCruise!

If you want to experience how our mentor can impact your team beforehand, we invite you to book a mentor for yourself with our free 7-day trial .

Find an expert mentor

Get the career advice you need to succeed. Find a mentor who can help you with your career goals, on the leading mentorship marketplace.

21 Professional Development Activities and Ideas for Hybrid Teams in 2023

Professional development is the ongoing process of learning and acquiring skills, with employee career advancement being the primary goal. Professional development can be anything from public speaking training to a diversity and inclusion workshop- these activities serve as a means for employees to improve their job performance through learning.  

According to Slack , employees given professional development opportunities have higher job satisfaction, are more engaged and therefore more productive at work. 

In this article, we discuss the role and importance of professional development, then activities and ideas that business owners, team leaders, and HR managers can implement in their company. 

Discover our Learning and development activities

What is professional development?

Why is professional development important, ideas and activities for professional development , virtual professional development workshops (hosted), easy-to-implement professional development ideas, tips on how to integrate professional development at work, professional development faqs.

Professional development sounds like a serious term, and although it refers to broadening an employee’s career opportunities and fueling growth, it mainly focuses on the continued training and learning of an employee regarding their career. Professional development aims to keep employees updated on current trends and equip them with new skills and knowledge to advance in their professions. Professional development is not limited to certifications or licensures; many other activities and ideas can help employees develop. 

Employee development not only empowers employees or boosts employee morale, but it allows your staff to hone their skills and talents through new knowledge. When providing employees with new abilities, companies also lower their turnover rate. Businesses with  higher employee morale will likely invest time and money in learning and development strategies. Other than that, it makes room for career advancement and helps your staff become quick learners and key performers. Investing in outcomes directly linked to business performance ensures that your employees will be vital long-term contributors to your company’s success. In short, employee development helps boost business competence and increases employee loyalty and motivation. 

There are numerous ways for employees to develop themselves professionally, from self-learning to regular workshops. We’ve compiled a list of ideas and activities that could be useful when planning your professional development strategy. 

You might be thinking that professional development activities are hard to host but it’s not! There are many virtual workshops on  Tagvenue Virtual  to promote career growth within remote or dispersed teams. Hosted workshops means all employees can skip the preparation, attend the workshops and learn something new together.

1. Visual Thinking

Let’s start with a creative one: visual thinking. People who are visual learners typically recall an idea better when it is presented with visuals like signs, symbols, and keywords. Wordy ideas can be easily forgotten, but visualising them helps the message stick. Visual Thinking workshops emphasise the use of straightforward diagrams to structure and present ideas. Visual thinking is a communication technique that fosters innovative problem solving and improved presentation abilities. Such workshops are great for new joiners and leaders alike.

2. Leadership Skills

Some are born leaders. Others require a gentle push. Successful leaders inspire their followers, whether it’s by their actions or words. Employees can benefit from leadership exercises that help them discover and capitalise on their individual leadership styles. Leadership skills can be practised. Hone your employees’ leadership strengths by helping them become leaders in their fields and beyond. By learning how to handle leadership challenges and understanding their strengths through well-crafted activities, employees can better manage themselves and others.

Leadership Incubators are excellent for tapping into female talent.  Pink Careers says more than 50% of women find it hard to see themselves as leaders . Leadership incubators are 6-month-long programs where women learn everything from building a  personal brand, to managing people and mentoring others. Carried out on a monthly basis, participants get the chance to grow their leadership skills through executive coaching, guided worksheets, on-the-job assignments, and more. Depending on your budget, you can either attend  an intensive online leadership workshop once every quarter or help your female talent embark on an intensive leadership program of 6 workshops!

3. Burnout Management

Professional development is not only about how to be the best at your job but also about creating a happy and healthy work environment for your employees. The term burnout is often confused with stress; however, burnout is more like the culmination of stress. Therefore, HR managers and leaders must keep track of their workforce’s mental health to ensure they don’t burn out or become disengaged at work. 

Burnout management workshops focus on providing your team with the right tools and resources to prevent  eventual burnout. By learning the causes of stress and burnout and adopting the right practices, employees improve their performance and contribute to a healthier work environment. 

4. Personal Branding

Personal branding is key to your employees’ professional development. Personal branding is all about setting yourself apart from the rest and learning about tapping into your greatest asset: You! Personal Branding workshops help employees learn about themselves and discover how to present themselves, communicate assertively and take control of their careers. In addition, these workshops focus on practical leadership strategies that empower your team for long-term professional success. By teaching your employees how to leverage their personal brands and maximise their management skills, you ensure that you’re building a resilient workforce, ready to take up new challenges. 

5. Diversity and Inclusion

Professional development is not limited to management and leadership issues. It also includes other aspects of employee development, such as diversity and inclusion. While everyone knows that diverse and inclusive workplaces tend to outperform competitors , many don’t understand what a diverse and inclusive environment is and how they can promote these values inside and outside the workplace. This Diversity, Equity , and Inclusion Workshop carried out online helps foster a more productive environment and happier employees as they acquire skills and learn new terms and concepts that will help them enhance their interpersonal skills and help colleagues from minorities feel more valued and respected at work.

Similar activities: LGBTQ+ Allyship Workshop , Diversity and Inclusion Consulting

Read more about LGBTQ+ activities that you can include in your professional development strategy.

When you’re a startup or a team of only ten people, it is challenging to invest in professional development workshops or invite a guest speaker to your company. From presentations to book recommendations, we’ve come up with different career growth ideas for you to implement at work through presentations, guides, books and daily learnings.

6. Conflict Resolution

Remember that unresolved conflict with Sharon in March 2020? If you do, you might consider a conflict resolution workshop. Conflicts are inevitable when employees work towards a similar goal. By organising a conflict resolution workshop or regular presentations, employees are prepared to effectively handle conflicts and resolve differences positively. Conflict resolution workshops are excellent for helping  employees understand the root of conflict and learn how to prevent a situation from escalating into a full-scale problem.

But hey, you don’t have to splurge on a conflict resolution workshop to get started, check out some of these books to add to your office library. 

• Difficult Conversations , Bruce Patton, Douglas Stone, and Sheila Heen
• Crucial Conversations , Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Al Switzler, Ron McMillan
• Getting to Zero , Jason Gaddis
• The Power of Conflict , Jon Taffer

7. Performance Review

Performance appraisal, performance evaluation, or however you may call it, is typically something that employees dread. The pressure is real on both sides. Line managers are required to proceed with tact, while employees are fearful of negative feedback. When you’re tennis buddies, it can be tough to comment on your colleague’s performance. Performance review workshops, training, and presentations equip managers with the required skills to perform those dreaded employee evaluations.

 Wondering how to proceed? Check out this free guide by the University of San Diego to help you craft a successful performance evaluation workshop. Don’t forget to adjust it to your employee’s needs.

8. Presentation Skills

Ah, you’re probably thinking not again . Presentations are often perceived as a waste of time. Yet, confident presenters can wake you up from your midday snooze with their charisma and brilliant presentation skills. If you want your employees to acquire the presentation skills that will leave everyone impressed, focusing on presentation skills is your best bet. No matter which line of business you’re in, presentations are bound to take place, so why not hold a workshop that your employees will find helpful? 

To help you get started, share these tips from Carmine Gallo , a famous keynote speaker, with your staff! 

9. Mentorship Program

Mentorship programs are popular in renowned companies like Accenture, where they integrate mentorship into their buddy system. New joiners are guided to  develop as much as they can during their first months at work. Mentors can help employees in many different ways. They can support staff in their professional development, guide them and help them build a professional network. The most successful mentorship programs allow employees to develop long-term relationships with their mentors.

Learn more about impactful mentorship programs here .

10. Clear Communication 

Whether you’re working in a remote or hybrid environment, there’s bound to be a communication gap among your employees. For corporate companies, it can be hard to keep track of who needs support to improve their communication skills. Therefore it’s a good idea to introduce the need for clear communication at the earliest of an employee’s career.  It can be done by offering some notable communication skills books or by conducting quarterly training sessions. Whichever you decide to choose, make sure to measure the progress and results of your investment. 

Here are some brilliant communication books you can include as employee gifts :

• Effective Communication at Work , Vicki McLeod
• Words that Work , Frank Luntz
• Digital Body Language , Erica Dhawan
• Simply Said : Communicating Better at Work and Beyond, Jay Sullivan

11. Emotional Intelligence

 According to this source , managers and leaders with high emotional intelligence inspire and motivate others. Although emotional intelligence is a term that gets thrown around a lot, many employees are not aware of its significance. Emotional intelligence workshops and training are designed to help people regulate their own emotions while understanding the feelings of others. Emotional intelligence activities help employees build healthier work relationships, reduce team stress and improve employee morale .

Check out some emotional intelligence activities that you can implement right away.

12. Feedback Workshop

Most employees have a love-hate relationship with feedback. When it’s all positive, they tend to love it, but we can’t say the same thing about negative feedback. Fortunately, feedback workshops and training help employees understand how to deliver feedback without hurting their colleagues or even which words to use when formulating their feedback. For example, at Tagvenue , we recently had a virtual feedback workshop with Patrycja Szostakowska , an expert in People Management, who taught us how to paraphrase and prepare for feedback. Such workshops are guaranteed to help managers and new employees to receive and share feedback more effectively.

13. Myers Briggs Self Discovery

Are you an introvert or an extrovert? How do you gather information? These are some common questions during a typical Myers-Briggs Test. Though many workshops can help your employees identify their work personalities and environments in which they are likely to thrive, you can also carry out a DIY Myers-Briggs self discovery at work. 

This works best if you have someone with a background in psychology or an expert at work. as they can interpret the results for your team. Myers-Briggs tests not only help employees gain insight into what energises or drains them, but they also help people use this new information to improve their professional lives.

Learn more about Myers Briggs Self Discovery here , and here’s a link to a free test .

14. Public speaking

Fear of public speaking is nothing new. While there are many excellent orators worldwide, for many of us it can lead to anything from a quivering voice to paralysing fear. Investing in public speaking workshops or training can help employees overcome their fear of public speaking and even excel at it.  You may even introduce a weekly public speaking meeting where employees talk about their passions or job. In addition, learning how to speak in public helps employees deliver impeccable speeches and appeal to others in the company.

Watch Simon Sinek’s take on Public Speaking here .

15. Effective Meetings

It can be tough to run effectively in-person or online meetings, particularly when you’re new on the job. People tend to shy away from conducting meetings as they have to answer questions, make sure that the content is relevant, and that their message is being delivered. It can be stressful for even the most outgoing employees. Effective meeting training, courses, and workshops all focus on these:

• Meeting with purpose
• Setting an agenda
• Determining the roles of all attendees
• Identifying the causes of ineffective meetings
• Learning about meeting ‘hijackers’ aka the ones who ruin your vibe
• Concluding a meeting 
• Following up after the meeting

Here is a course on Planning Effective Meetings offered by Google.

16. Team Focus

Team focus workshops, training, or courses focus on strengthening teams. These help team leaders improve their relationships within their teams. Attendees get to identify potential gaps, clarify their team goals and reiterate the team’s mission and vision.

 By understanding the needs of the team and establishing a direction for them, employees can not only function better when working in groups but also feel more engaged as they identify their roles and how they can contribute to the overall success of a project. Team Focus can also take the form of weekly meetings, where teammates discuss their current pain points, ideas, and successes. Check out how GetYourGuide carries its team focus days here.

17. Storytelling

In business, storytelling refers to using  human connection to persuade an audience to accomplish the desired action, such as purchasing a good or service. Stories unite people and are a practical approach to increasing trust within an organisation. Brands such as Nike and Dove excel at storytelling. Storytelling techniques can help employees connect with their audience and tap into their needs and desires. In addition, it helps build relationships with customers while showcasing your product or service.

Here are a few books on storytelling to get for your staff: 

• Unleash the Power of Storytelling , Rob Biensenbach
• Sell with a Story , Paul Smith
• Stories that Stick , Kindra Hall
• Building a Story Brand, Donald Miller

18. Teamwork Activities

Teamwork is critical to professional development as it enhances creative and critical thinking skills, promotes collaboration, and encourages effective communication. It doesn’t have to be limited to everyday office business, it can be cultivated through various interactions. Whether through a brainstorming session or virtual team building activities , the aim is to promote collaboration and exchange and improve employee morale and engagement . Team-oriented activities benefit any organisation, irrespective of its size.

Read more about remote team-building activities in our post .

19. Onboarding

Although onboarding may seem like a natural part of a business, onboarding trends are constantly changing, meaning that you have to keep up with market trends, and employees need to build long-term relationships with new joiners. Through training or online onboarding courses, HR managers can tap into their organisation’s and employees’ needs through training or online onboarding courses and structure better onboarding processes. 

Here is a list of books on onboarding:

• The First 90 Days , Michael Watkins
• Effective Onboarding , Norma Davila and Wanda Pina-Ramirez
• Onboarding : Getting New Hires Off to a Flying Start, Christian Harpelund and Morten T. Højberg

Read our onboarding tips for remote employees .

20. Negotiation Skills

Do you prefer to act clueless and adopt the Columbo approach, or would you rather play the bad cop? Successful negotiations help you forge stronger relationships, which is a key factor in business success. Negotiations deliver long-lasting, high-quality solutions as opposed to poor, transient ones that don’t meet the needs of either side. They also help businesses avert issues and confrontations in the future. Negotiation skills training, programs, and workshops help employees learn and develop techniques to become powerful negotiators, which can largely benefit your business.

Learn more about the importance of negotiation techniques .

21. Talent Management

Using talent management, employers may find and develop a workforce that is as productive as possible and likely to stick around for longer. When deliberately put into place, this process can help the company perform better overall and maintain its competitiveness.  Talent management programmes focus on identifying your business needs, attracting and retaining top talent, employee development, employee evaluation, and retention- all of which can help your employees grow and flourish. 

• Professional development is most effective when integrated into people’s daily work . Employees can make the most of career development by giving employees more control and offering flexible learning opportunities.  
• Consider using e-learning platforms and e-courses such as Udemy courses to make learning and workplace training more convenient, particularly for remote teams. Online learning makes it easier for your staff to learn at their own pace and anywhere they want to.
• Capitalise on team collaboration platforms such as Slack, where teams can easily communicate and learn from each other daily. Encourage using these platforms to share industry knowledge and business insights.
• Online surveys are an HR manager’s ally. To lead others also means to learn from them. Conduct regular employee surveys to identify your employees’ needs. Encourage feedback to understand what could be improved whenever offering a workshop or training. Professional development is not a one-off activity and needs continuous evaluation for you to tailor opportunities that help your employees thrive.
• Embrace failure . Ensure that workers are aware that failing is not only acceptable, but also the norm. Encourage team members to see these situations as an opportunity to grow to remove the stigma associated with failure. Risk-taking will then be more prevalent among people.

Discover our learning and development activities . 

Companies that invest in employee development tend to have higher employee engagement and better job satisfaction. Professional development opportunities should be part of a company’s strategy to bring long-term results. From lunch and learns, online workshops to mentorships, there are many ideas and activities that can help employees learn and grow. Think about your past experiences and how you and your staff learn best. 

Carry a survey and identify their current career development needs. By assisting your employees in choosing a career path, you can increase employee morale, and foster employee loyalty. In addition,  a proactive approach to your staff’s professional development enables you to have candid conversations about how each person feels about their work and how you or the person sees them developing within the organisation.

Can professional development activities take place online?

Yes, with the popularity of hybrid and remote work, more and more workshops and activities are hosted on online platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet. These not only facilitate communication but also enhance participation when the cameras are turned on and tools such as ‘Raise a Hand’, and ‘Present Now’ are used. Online workshops also allow participants to have lifelong access to resourceful material. Teams can brainstorm ideas and interact with each other despite the distance.

Should my company invest in professional development activities?

Yes! Companies that invest in employee development have a competitive advantage as they have the right skills and knowledge to face market challenges.  Employee development also boosts employee morale, increasing employee loyalty and countering employee turnover.  

How can I hold professional development workshops for my staff?

We recommend starting with a survey or having one-on-one meetings with your employees if you’re a small company. It’s essential to determine what areas need improvement to pick the suitable professional development activity for your employees.

What are professional development ideas?

Professional development can be anything from formal training to fun team-building activities. Their main objective is to upskill your employees and help them achieve their full potential. Take a look at our ideas and activities above for some inspiration.

What are some excellent professional development activities and ideas for work?

Good professional development activities and ideas for your employees include talent management, onboarding, negotiation skills, team building , public speaking, visual thinking , leadership development, and diversity and inclusion workshops, among others.

We do virtual events that will make your team laugh, talk, and bond! Relax, you’re in good hands. After a short chit-chat, our Host will split your team into groups of 4-5 people. Get ready for music and fun challenges. Each team starts with zero points… Who will win?

• √ Spare time to warm up the crowd
• √ Groups of 4-5 people
• √ Dedicated Host for game moderation

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10 essential workplace skills for success

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What are workplace skills?

10 examples of workplace skills, 6 ways to improve workplace skills, how to include workplace skills in job applications, turning imagination into reality.

Imagine walking into an interview feeling confident and prepared. You're armed with technical knowledge, people skills, and everything in between — in other words, you're the complete package, with a diverse skill set that makes you the ideal candidate. 

This isn't a far-fetched dream. In fact, it's an attainable reality when you perfect essential skills for the workplace. Understanding and developing these skills boosts your employability and prepares you for long-term career success. 

You don't have to be a fortune teller to predict that the job market will ask you to bring a mix of skills to the table. Certain ones will always be in demand, whether you're just starting your career or a seasoned professional looking to pivot. Keeping up with in-demand skills makes you a strong candidate who stands out in a crowded job market.

Workplace skills go beyond the bullet points on a resume. They’re the less-tangible attributes that translate to efficiency, dependability, and effectiveness on the job. Think of them as your toolbox for navigating challenges and optimizing productivity. 

Employers don't just look at what you know — they're keen to see how you apply it. A balanced blend of technical knowledge and interpersonal skills demonstrates your ability to tackle specific tasks in addition to the unanticipated hurdles that inevitably pop up in any job.

A worker’s skills comprise both hard and soft skills , from technical abilities to effective communication. These talents are crucial because they impact performance and team dynamics, shaping the overall work environment. Employers value a well-rounded skill set, as it demonstrates adaptability and problem-solving capabilities.

Contrary to popular belief, 75% of long-term career success depends on developing soft skills rather than technical skills. This means if you’re short on soft skills, you should work on developing them ASAP. 

Check out this list of employee skill examples to pinpoint where you thrive and where you could improve:

1. Communication

Communication is about articulating your ideas and understanding others by practicing active listening and reading body language . Good communication is key in any work environment to mitigate costly misunderstandings and ensure everyone's on the same page. When applying for a job, incorporate examples demonstrating your knack for clear and effective dialogue.

Today, communication also extends to written outputs like emails and Slack messages. Your writing skills must be sharp to convey your thoughts clearly and efficiently. A misspoken word or poorly written email can throw a wrench into projects and relationships. 

After brushing up on this skill, ensure your LinkedIn profile and other professional social media profiles showcase your strong written communication skills with clean, concise copy.

2. Management

Management doesn't mean just being the boss — it's also about handling resources wisely and meeting goals efficiently. 

This umbrella skill includes time management , project management, and even conflict resolution . Show employers you can steer the ship through stormy waters and keep your team on course. Point to past roles where your management made a tangible difference, like completing a project ahead of schedule or under budget.

Critical management skills also involve adaptability and decision-making . The work environment is always changing, and how you adapt your management style can make all the difference. 

3. Self-regulation

In a professional setting, emotional stability is vital. Self-regulation, including emotional intelligence and self-awareness , helps you keep a cool head when tensions rise. It also allows you to approach problems rationally rather than impulsively. 

Furthermore, self-regulation contributes to better self-management and even career path planning. Knowing your emotional triggers allows you to position yourself in roles and projects where you'll excel. It’s an often overlooked component of professional growth and career development .

Showcase this skill by citing instances where your level-headedness positively impacted outcomes or resolved conflicts.

4. Teamwork

The phrase " team player " might sound cliché, but teamwork skills remain an invaluable part of professional life. 

It's all about synergizing with team members to achieve common goals. Good teamwork skills lift the morale and efficiency of the entire workforce. To highlight teamwork on your job application, give examples of projects that succeeded thanks to your collaborative efforts.

Remember: the ability to collaborate doesn't just help you. It makes your entire team more effective, and when team members mesh well, the entire company benefits, not just individual contributors. Leaders often look for employees who can elevate the team’s collective workforce skills and competencies. 

5. Collaboration

This skill goes hand in hand with teamwork but focuses more on cross-functional cooperation. Collaboration fuels innovation and creativity, adding significant value to any project.

Effective collaboration demands excellent communication and emotional intelligence. When collaborating across departments, it's essential to understand the language and priorities of other teams. Your adaptability and active listening skills play a significant role in breaking down silos and promoting a culture of collaboration at work .

In your application, use examples that showcase your ability to work cohesively with different departments or new skill sets to achieve bigger and better outcomes.

6. Problem-solving

Being a problem solver doesn't just make you valuable — it makes you indispensable . When challenges arise, your ability to provide practical solutions is a non-negotiable for many companies.

Plus, being a great problem solver often requires solid analytical skills. The ability to assess a problem from multiple perspectives helps ensure your solutions are well-rounded and effective. A variety of industries, including healthcare and technology, place a high value on this multifaceted approach to problem-solving.

Show off your problem-solving prowess by detailing situations where your innovative approaches overcame obstacles or streamlined processes.

7. Effective feedback

Feedback contributes to a culture of continuous improvement . Employers seek out this skill because it enhances both individual and collective performance.

Feedback loops also play a crucial role in effective project management. When everyone on the team is open to giving and receiving constructive input, projects often meet or even exceed expectations. 

When showcasing this skill, remember to mention how your ability to handle feedback positively affected project outcomes. Highlight workforce development examples where your constructive feedback led to notable improvements or where you acted on feedback to enhance your own skills.

8. Critical thinking

This skill empowers you to assess situations from multiple angles and avoid snap judgments. Good critical thinking leads to better decision-making and reduces the risk of costly errors.

In a rapidly changing job market, critical thinking skills are always in demand. Your ability to adapt and think on your feet can set you apart from the competition. From conflict resolution to effective problem-solving, strong critical thinking skills are a must-have in almost any career path. 

In your application, pinpoint times when your analytical skills were instrumental in making well-informed decisions.

9. Digital skills

In many roles, being tech-savvy is a must. Whether it's mastering Microsoft Office or knowing how to use the Adobe Creative Suite, these skills amplify your employability. Be sure to list certifications or experiences that prove your digital competency when applying for jobs.

Keep in mind that digital skills extend beyond software knowledge. They also encompass digital communications, such as work-related social media accounts and web-based meetings. Employers highly value this versatility, as it enhances your ability to fit into modern work environments.

10. Technology

Hard skills like coding or specialized knowledge in healthcare have clear-cut value: they showcase your ability to handle the specific demands of your role. But don't just list these skills on your resume — provide examples demonstrating your expertise and efficiency in employing them.

Technology is constantly evolving, so your willingness and ability to learn new skills, tools, or platforms makes you an even more valuable asset. Every additional skill boosts your competitive edge and prepares you for future advancements in your field, making you a long-term asset to any organization.

Each skill brings advantages to the workplace, making you more employable and capable. While some might be more tailored to specific industries or roles, most are universally beneficial, giving you a leg up in any job market.

If you’re looking to boost your office skills but don't know where to start, here's your cheat sheet to level up your abilities at work:

1. Set weekly and monthly goals

Evaluate your current skills and identify what could use some polishing. Maybe your time management skills could be better, or your technical skills need a refresher. Once you’ve made this list, set realistic goals for each week and month to improve them. These targets act like a GPS, keeping you on the right path and ensuring you continually upskill .

2. Prioritize your tasks

When you're swamped with work and everything seems urgent, stop, take a breath, and calmly list out your tasks. Identify what will really move the needle for you or your team. 

This approach hones your decision-making skills and amplifies your time management. On average, it takes around 23 minutes for workers to get back on task after an interruption, so prioritizing your work and remaining focused is key. Learning how to prioritize tasks leads to better results and less stress.

3. Avoid multitasking

Despite its allure, multitasking often undermines quality and performance. Focusing on one task at a time lets you bring your full problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to the table. Channel your energy into one thing and do it well.

4. Give and ask for feedback

Feedback isn't something to fear — it's an opportunity to grow. Knowing where you shine and where you can improve enhances your self-awareness and sets the stage for targeted self-improvement. 

Employees who receive consistent, meaningful feedback from their manager are 3.5 times more likely to be engaged than those who receive feedback once a year or less. The next time someone offers feedback, take it as a chance to evolve your skills in the workplace.

5. Standardize processes

You don’t always need to reinvent the wheel. Standardizing how you handle routine tasks can be a game-changer for efficiency and focus. It allows you to allocate your mental resources to more complex tasks requiring full attention, bolstering your project management skills.

6. Be optimistic

A positive outlook can elevate your mood and work wonders in a work environment. 

Optimism infuses you with resilience and enhances your emotional intelligence. Believe it or not, your positivity can be infectious, boosting team morale and even fostering better communication skills among your team members.

Once you've honed your skills, it's time to make them shine on your job application. 

Fortunately, showing potential employers what you bring to the table doesn't have to be complicated. Here's how to put your best foot forward:

• Tailor your skills to the role: Treat each job application like a unique opportunity. Tailor your resume to emphasize the skills most relevant to the job you're seeking. Ditch the generic approach and match your skills to the job description to grab the attention of hiring managers. This approach demonstrates you're serious about this particular role.
• Provide quantifiable accomplishments: Telling isn't selling. Use cold, hard numbers to validate your skills. Instead of merely stating you're good at project management, point out that you led a team to complete projects 20% under budget and two weeks ahead of schedule. Stats like these prove your prowess and make you more memorable to employers.
• Use the STAR method in interviews: If you make it to the interview stage, you'll need to discuss your skills in real time. Use the STAR method (situation, task, action, result) to frame your experiences. This technique is an organizational skill that helps you break down complex scenarios into digestible chunks to leave a lasting impression on the interviewer.
• Incorporate skills into your cover letter: Your cover letter is another opportunity to showcase your skills. Integrate relevant skills naturally throughout the letter and discuss a project where your problem-solving skills or teamwork made a difference. A well-crafted cover letter gives employers a taste of what you bring to the table, making you a more compelling candidate.

Ticking these boxes elevates your entire application and gives you a competitive edge. Tailoring your approach and providing real-world proof of your skills show employers that you mean business. And in a saturated job market, standing out for all the right reasons is more crucial than ever.

Mastering diverse workplace skills sets you on a rewarding career path. From communication and management to adaptability and critical thinking, these skills don't just meet job market demands — they make you a formidable professional. 

Remember that confident candidate walking into the interview? That's you, ready to conquer the world.

Thrive in your workplace

Connect with our Coaches to build stronger workplace relationships and cultivate a culture that drives success.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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AI Generator

In today’s rapidly evolving world, skills have become the cornerstone of personal and professional success. From technical abilities to soft skills, the range of competencies needed to thrive in various environments continues to expand. Mastering a diverse set of skills not only enhances individual performance but also opens doors to new opportunities and career advancements. This article explores the essential skills that define modern success, highlighting their importance and offering insights on how to develop and hone them effectively.

What are skills?

Skills refer to the abilities and expertise acquired through practice and experience, enabling individuals to perform tasks effectively. These can be classified into hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities like coding, data analysis, or machinery operation. Soft skills, on the other hand, include interpersonal abilities such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Both types of skills are crucial in the workplace, as they collectively enhance an individual’s competence and productivity. Not only that, but a person can create the perfect resume by having a large set of employability skills .

Examples of Skills

Skills are abilities or expertise that people acquire through practice and experience. Here are some examples of different types of skills:

Hard Skills

• Technical Skills : Proficiency in using specific software or hardware, such as programming languages (e.g., Python, Java), software applications (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Adobe Photoshop), or equipment operation (e.g., machinery, laboratory equipment).
• Analytical Skills : Ability to analyze data, interpret complex information, and make decisions based on analysis. Examples include data analysis, statistical analysis, and financial analysis.
• Language Skills : Proficiency in speaking, writing, and understanding one or more languages.
• Project Management : Skills related to planning, executing, and closing projects, such as scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Certifications : Formal recognitions of proficiency in a specific area, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Project Management Professional (PMP), or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).

Soft Skills

• Communication : Ability to convey information clearly and effectively through various channels (e.g., verbal, written, non-verbal).
• Teamwork : Ability to work collaboratively with others to achieve common goals.
• Problem-Solving : Capacity to find solutions to challenges or obstacles.
• Time Management : Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently.
• Adaptability : Flexibility in adjusting to new conditions and environments.
• Leadership : Ability to guide, motivate, and manage a team or organization.
• Emotional Intelligence : Awareness and management of one’s own emotions, and the ability to understand and influence the emotions of others.
• Creativity : Capacity to generate new ideas, think outside the box, and innovate.

Transferable Skills

• Critical Thinking : Ability to think clearly and rationally, understanding the logical connection between ideas.
• Interpersonal Skills : Ability to interact effectively with others, including negotiation, persuasion, and conflict resolution.
• Organizational Skills : Ability to plan, organize, and manage tasks and resources efficiently.
• Customer Service : Providing support and service to customers to meet their needs and expectations.
• Multitasking : Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining quality and efficiency.

Skills Examples for Students

• Time Management : Balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, and part-time work effectively.
• Research Skills : Conducting thorough research for assignments and projects using various resources.
• Communication Skills : Presenting ideas clearly in class discussions and written assignments.
• Teamwork : Collaborating with classmates on group projects and activities.
• Critical Thinking : Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions.
• Problem-Solving : Finding creative solutions to academic challenges and obstacles.

Skills Examples for Resume

• Project Management : Leading and managing projects from inception to completion.
• Technical Skills : Proficiency in software and tools relevant to the job (e.g., Microsoft Office, programming languages).
• Customer Service : Providing excellent service to customers, handling inquiries, and resolving issues.
• Adaptability : Quickly learning new skills and adjusting to changing work environments.
• Leadership : Guiding and motivating team members to achieve goals.
• Sales Skills : Effectively selling products or services and meeting sales targets.

Personal Skills Examples

• Self-Motivation : Setting personal goals and working diligently to achieve them.
• Empathy : Understanding and sharing the feelings of others, providing support when needed.
• Patience : Remaining calm and composed in challenging situations.
• Organization : Keeping personal and professional spaces tidy and well-organized.
• Creativity : Thinking outside the box and coming up with innovative ideas.
• Resilience : Bouncing back from setbacks and staying focused on long-term goals.

Professional Skills Examples

• Analytical Skills : Analyzing data and information to make informed business decisions.
• Negotiation : Successfully negotiating deals and agreements with clients and partners.
• Strategic Planning : Developing and implementing effective business strategies.
• Networking : Building and maintaining professional relationships within the industry.
• Budget Management : Managing financial resources and budgets efficiently.
• Quality Assurance : Ensuring products and services meet high standards of quality.

Basic Skills Examples

• Literacy : Reading and writing effectively in various contexts.
• Numeracy : Performing basic mathematical calculations accurately.
• Computer Skills : Using basic computer programs and internet applications.
• Interpersonal Skills : Communicating and interacting effectively with others.
• Basic Problem-Solving : Identifying and addressing simple problems efficiently.
• Time Management : Organizing and prioritizing tasks to manage time effectively.

Types of skills

Definition: Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities or knowledge sets that are easy to quantify. These skills are often learned through education, training programs, certifications, or on-the-job experience.

• Technical Skills: Programming languages (e.g., Python, Java), software proficiency (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite), web development.
• Analytical Skills: Data analysis, financial modeling, statistical analysis.
• Administrative Skills: Project management, budgeting, scheduling.
• Mechanical Skills: Operating machinery, vehicle maintenance, technical repair.
• Medical Skills: Patient care, medical procedures, diagnostic techniques.
• Creative Skills: Graphic design, video production, photography.
• Language Skills: Proficiency in foreign languages, translation, interpretation.
• Research Skills: Conducting experiments, literature review, data collection.

Definition: Soft skills are interpersonal and behavioral skills that are more subjective and harder to quantify. These skills relate to how individuals interact with others and manage their own behavior.

• Communication: Verbal and written communication, active listening, presentation skills.
• Teamwork: Collaboration, conflict resolution, ability to work in a team setting.
• Problem-Solving: Critical thinking, creativity, adaptability.
• Leadership: Leadership, delegation, motivation.
• Time Management: Prioritization, multitasking, meeting deadlines.
• Emotional Intelligence: Empathy, self-awareness, social skills.
• Customer Service: Client relations, handling complaints, customer satisfaction.
• Work Ethic: Reliability, professionalism, attention to detail.

Leadership Skills

Leadership skills refer to the abilities and qualities that enable an individual to guide, inspire, and influence others towards achieving common goals. These skills are essential for effective management and teamwork. Key components of leadership skills include:

• Communication: Clearly conveying ideas and information to others.
• Motivation: Inspiring and encouraging team members to perform their best.
• Decision-Making: Making informed choices that benefit the team or organization.
• Problem-Solving: Addressing and resolving issues that arise.
• Empathy: Understanding and considering the feelings and perspectives of others.
• Delegation: Assigning tasks and responsibilities to the right people.
• Vision: Setting a clear direction and long-term goals for the team or organization.

Gross Motor Skills

Gross motor skills involve the use of large muscles in the body to perform movements and tasks. These skills are essential for activities that require whole-body movement and coordination. Examples of gross motor skills include:

• Walking: Coordinating leg muscles to move forward.
• Running: Faster movement requiring balance and coordination.
• Jumping: Using leg muscles to propel the body off the ground.
• Throwing: Using arm muscles to propel an object.
• Balancing: Maintaining stability while standing or moving.
• Climbing: Using arms and legs to move up or down a structure.

Technical Skills

Technical skills are specific abilities and knowledge required to perform particular tasks or use specific tools and technologies. These skills are often job-specific and can be gained through education, training, and practical experience. Key aspects of technical skills include:

• Proficiency in Software: Knowing how to use specialized software applications relevant to the job.
• Programming: Writing and understanding code in various programming languages.
• Engineering: Applying principles of science and mathematics to design and build structures, machines, and systems.
• Data Analysis: Interpreting and manipulating data to draw conclusions and make decisions.
• Mechanical Skills: Understanding and operating machinery and tools.
• Technical Writing: Creating clear and concise technical documentation.

Labor Skills

Labor skills, often referred to as manual or physical labor skills, involve the physical and practical abilities required to perform tasks that typically require manual effort and hands-on work. These skills are essential in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and maintenance. Key components of labor skills include:

• Physical Strength: The ability to exert force and carry heavy loads.
• Endurance: Sustaining prolonged physical activity without excessive fatigue.
• Coordination: Using different parts of the body together smoothly and efficiently.
• Manual Dexterity: Skillful use of hands and fingers to handle tools and materials.
• Technical Proficiency: Understanding and operating machinery, equipment, and tools.
• Safety Awareness: Knowledge and application of safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries.
• Problem-Solving: Quickly identifying and addressing issues that arise during tasks.
• Attention to Detail: Ensuring precision and accuracy in work to maintain quality standards.
• Work Ethic: Demonstrating reliability, punctuality, and a strong commitment to completing tasks.

Life Skills

Life skills are essential abilities that help individuals navigate various aspects of life effectively. They encompass a wide range of competencies that enable people to handle daily tasks, make informed decisions, and interact positively with others. Here are some key life skills:

• Communication Skills : The ability to express oneself clearly and listen effectively. This includes verbal, non-verbal, and written communication.
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving : The capacity to analyze situations, identify problems, evaluate options, and implement solutions.
• Emotional Intelligence : Understanding and managing one’s emotions, as well as recognizing and influencing the emotions of others.
• Time Management : Organizing and planning how to divide time between specific activities to work efficiently and meet deadlines.
• Financial Literacy : Understanding how to manage money, including budgeting, saving, investing, and making informed financial decisions.
• Self-Care : Maintaining physical and mental health through activities like regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management.
• Interpersonal Skills : Building and maintaining positive relationships, working collaboratively, and resolving conflicts.

Social skills

• Listening : Actively paying attention to others, showing interest, and responding appropriately.
• Speaking : Clearly expressing thoughts and ideas in a way that others can understand.
• Non-verbal Communication : Understanding and using body language, facial expressions, and eye contact to convey messages.
• Empathy : Understanding and sharing the feelings of others. This helps in building connections and providing support.
• Respect : Valuing others’ opinions, feelings, and rights. This includes being polite, considerate, and showing appreciation.
• Teamwork : Working well with others to achieve a common goal. This involves collaboration, sharing responsibilities, and supporting team members.
• Conflict Resolution : Managing and resolving disagreements in a constructive manner. This includes negotiating, mediating, and finding mutually acceptable solutions.
• Adaptability : Being flexible and open to new ideas, changes, and different perspectives.

How to Develop Skills?

Set Clear Goals

• Identify the Skill: Clearly define what skill you want to develop.
• Set Specific Goals: Create specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals.

Research and Learn

• Read and Study: Find books, articles, and other resources related to the skill.
• Take Courses: Enroll in online or in-person courses to get structured learning.
• Seek Mentors: Find experts or mentors who can provide guidance and feedback.

Practice Regularly

• Consistent Practice: Dedicate regular time to practice the skill.
• Deliberate Practice: Focus on practicing the most challenging aspects of the skill to improve.
• Use Feedback: Actively seek feedback and use it to make adjustments and improvements.

Reflect and Adjust

• Self-Assessment: Regularly assess your progress and identify areas for improvement.
• Reflect on Mistakes: Analyze your mistakes and learn from them.
• Adjust Goals: Modify your goals based on your progress and new insights.

Apply the Skill

• Real-World Application: Apply the skill in real-world situations to gain practical experience.
• Projects and Challenges: Take on projects or challenges that require the use of the skill.

Stay Motivated

• Track Progress: Keep track of your progress and celebrate small victories.
• Stay Inspired: Stay motivated by keeping in mind why you want to develop the skill and the benefits it will bring.

Network and Collaborate

• Join Communities: Join communities or groups where you can connect with others who have similar interests.
• Collaborate: Work on collaborative projects to learn from others and gain different perspectives.

How to Obtain and Practice One’s Skills

Skills can be obtained through hard work and an understanding of the concepts and elements that are incorporated into the skill. Learning skills will put you at an advantage and will help you coast through life.

Step 1: Identify the Skill You Want to Learn

Begin by identifying the type of skill you want to learn. This will outline the steps you will need to take to learn the skill and provide a structure for you to practice said skill.

Step 2a: If the Skill is Hard Skill; Take Classes, Online Lessons, or an Apprenticeship

If the skill is hard skill, you should try to first take classes, online lessons, or an apprenticeship on the subject matter. These things will teach you the conceptual and practical side of the hard skill, which will allow you to obtain the hard skill.

Step 2b: If the Skill is a Soft Skill; Learn and Understand the Application of the Skill

IIf the chosen skill is a soft skill, you must try to learn and understand the application of said soft skill. By knowing how to apply said soft skill, you will be able to begin incorporating the skill into your everyday life.

Step 3a: Practice the Hard Skills and Develop New Techniques

When you have obtained the hard skill, you will need to practice your hard skill. You will also develop new and personal techniques that will augment the quality of your hard skill.

Step 3b: Incorporate the Soft Skill into One’s Life and Practice Said Skill

You must incorporate soft skills into one’s life and practice those skills in one’s everyday life and interactions. This is because practicing a soft skill will take a conscious effort from the person.

What are the top skills employers look for?

Employers value communication, teamwork, problem-solving, time management, adaptability, technical proficiency, leadership, creativity, and critical thinking skills.

What is the best way to develop leadership skills?

Take initiative, volunteer for leadership roles, seek mentorship, and participate in leadership training programs.

How important are technical skills in the job market?

Technical skills are crucial, especially in tech-driven industries. They demonstrate your ability to perform specific tasks effectively.

How can I improve my problem-solving skills?

Practice critical thinking, engage in puzzles and strategic games, and analyze real-life scenarios to develop practical solutions.

Why is time management important?

Effective time management increases productivity, reduces stress, and helps achieve goals more efficiently.

How can I enhance my adaptability in the workplace?

Embrace change, stay curious, learn new skills, and maintain a positive attitude towards new challenges.

What are some examples of teamwork skills?

Active listening, conflict resolution, collaboration, reliability, and effective communication are key teamwork skills.

How can I develop my creativity?

Engage in diverse activities, brainstorm regularly, seek inspiration from various sources, and keep an open mind.

What is critical thinking, and why is it important?

Critical thinking involves analyzing facts to form a judgment. It’s essential for making informed decisions and solving complex problems.

How do I showcase my skills on a resume?

Highlight key skills in a dedicated section, provide examples in job descriptions, and use action verbs to describe your accomplishments.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Enter Today's Teacher Appreciation Giveaway!

30+ Awesome Career-Readiness Activities That Teach Soft Skills

Students need these skills to succeed in the workplace.

Our vision is to unlock the potential of each learner at every stage of life. At McGraw Hill, we believe that your diverse experiences enrich the way you learn, teach, and grow. See how Career Explorations  introduces students to hundreds of diverse careers and critical soft skills needed to set them on a purposeful path through high school and beyond.

When it’s time for students to start working and/or head to college, they’ll need “soft skills,” otherwise known as career-readiness or job-readiness skills, in addition to academic knowledge and vocational skills.

Soft skills are those characteristics that help you function as an individual (motivation, self-confidence, flexibility) as well as within a group (teamwork, negotiation, respect). These job-readiness skills are key for succeeding in the workplace. After all, if you can’t show up on time, speak up for yourself, or get along with your peers, chances are you’re not going to have a very smooth go of it.

Explicitly teaching students these job-readiness skills is the best way to give them valuable insight into their strengths and weaknesses. We’ve rounded up just over 30 engaging lessons and activities that are not only just right for teaching the job-readiness skills students need, they are also a lot of fun!

1. Use an engaging curriculum for career exploration and readiness

There are so many important things to teach our students before they’re ready to leave high school that it’s daunting to know where to begin. That’s why having strong, trusted resources can make such a difference. McGraw Hill’s Career Explorations program for middle and early high school is an excellent example of such a curriculum. The resources blend occupation and industry content with case studies and real-world, application-based questions and activities to grab students’ attention right from the start. And real-world, industry-specific soft-skills practice questions throughout each chapter expose students to types of challenges they’ll face regardless of what career path they pursue.

Skills they’ll practice:

Collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving

Explore the program: McGraw Hill Career Explorations

2. Listen and recap

There are so many things competing for kids’ attention in today’s overstimulating world, so learning the simple art of listening can be a difficult task. This one-on-one communication activity will help students practice taking the time to clear their minds, focus, and really listen to what their partner is saying in a way that they can clearly and accurately repeat.

Divide students into pairs. Partner one draws a topic card from a prepared deck and talks about that topic, while partner two listens without speaking. The listener must really focus on simply receiving their partner’s words—not letting their mind wander or think about how they are going to respond. Then, without a rebuttal, partner two recaps what partner one said. Then, they switch roles.

Listening, respect, interpersonal skills, communication

Buy it: Letz Talk Conversation Cards at Amazon

3. Make a game of it

Responsibility isn’t something students develop overnight. It takes lots of practice to show self-control when things don’t go our way, to be accountable for our decisions, to finish what we start, and to keep trying even when we want to give up. Try these five super-fun games (below) that teach responsibility.

Responsibility, flexibility, patience

Learn more: 5 Great Games for Teaching Your Students About Responsibility

4. Serve others

Service-learning projects not only get kids involved in their communities, they help them develop many valuable job-readiness skills that will be assets on the job one day. Team students up to organize a book or food drive, recruit bilingual students to provide translation services, or encourage budding artists to collaborate on a community art event.

Teamwork, respect, time management, responsibility

Learn more: 30 Meaningful Service Learning Projects for Kids and Teens

5. Cultivate critical thinking

Critical thinking is the ability to examine a subject and develop an informed opinion about it. It’s about asking questions, then looking closely at the answers to form conclusions that are backed by provable facts, not just “gut feelings” and opinion. And it’s definitely on the top of most employers’ wish lists for new employees. Click the link below for fun and engaging classroom activities that’ll get your students’ gears turning.

Critical thinking, problem-solving, flexibility, self-confidence

Learn more: 5 Critical Thinking Skills Every Kid Needs To Learn and How To Teach Them

6. Human Marble Run

Working together to meet a goal takes patience and focus. This IRL version of Marble Run will help your students learn job-readiness skills like working together, and they’ll have fun doing it!

Give each member of the team a length of gutter or drainpipe. The team has to transfer a tennis ball or golf ball from one place to another by rolling the ball from one piece of gutter to the next. Make it interesting by making the team get the ball to traverse an obstacle course or to go up and down stairs.

Patience, negotiation, teamwork, communication

7. No-hands cup-stacking challenge

This hands-on group challenge is an exercise in learning job-readiness skills like patience and perseverance, not to mention it’s a total blast!

Decide how many students you want in each group, and tie that number of strings to a single rubber band. Each person in the group holds on to one of the strings attached to the rubber band. As a group, they use this device to pick up the cups (by pulling the rubber band apart and then bringing it back together over the cups) and place them on top of one another in order to build a pyramid.

Critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, patience

Learn more: Cup Stack from Ms. Sepp’s Counselor Corner

8. Paper bag skits

You never know what life is going to hand to you. This is true at work, school, and in life in general. Sometimes you’re handed a set of circumstances and have very little time to figure out what to do. This fun activity will help teens practice thinking on their feet.

Fill a few paper bags with four or five assorted classroom or household items. Break the teens into groups, and assign each group a bag without showing them what’s inside. Give them two minutes to examine the items in their bag and come up with a skit, using all of the items, for the rest of the class.

Time management, teamwork, flexibility, presentation skills

9. Nurture self-knowledge

Journaling is a powerful tool for creative expression and reflection, but did you know that it can also be an effective way to improve mental health? Recording your thoughts and feelings can be a cathartic form of stress relief, an opportunity to get to know yourself better, and a way to help you feel more grounded and authentic in your beliefs. Try these free writing prompt cards with your middle and high schoolers to help them get started.

Stress management, self-confidence, motivation

Learn more: Deep Writing Journal Prompts for Teens from Journal Buddies

10. Foster self-motivation

Self-motivation is one of the key indicators of success in the future. Conversely, lack of motivation leads to big problems not only in school but on the job later on. But how do we teach something that comes from inside? Check out the activities below for some great tips like breaking big dreams into smaller pieces, envisioning a bright future, encouraging students to share their stories, and more.

Work ethic, critical thinking, self-confidence

Learn more: How To Instill Intrinsic Motivation from 7Mindsets

11. Hold a poetry slam

Slam poetry is a unique performance art that will not only give your students the opportunity to express their thoughts, but build their confidence as well. Slam poems are specifically written to be performed in front of an audience, and topics are often diverse, political, and thought-provoking. Finding your voice and being able to move people with your words are job-readiness skills that can apply to any future endeavor.

Self-confidence, presentation skills, teamwork

Learn more: What Is Slam Poetry and How Can Teachers Use It With Students?

12. Team survival challenge

What would happen if your class went out on a pleasure cruise only to end up being lost at sea? Who would take charge? What materials would be essential for survival? If you ever saw an episode of the TV series Lost , you know that making these decisions as a group can get ugly fast. This activity is a great lesson in group decision-making, as students will undoubtedly have different ideas about what materials to add to a limited list in a limited amount of time.

Critical thinking, negotiation, communication, teamwork

Learn more: Lost at Sea from Grahame Knox

13. Start a school garden

A school garden is an amazing, hands-on way to help teach students about responsibility. From planning what to grow and organizing the supplies needed to creating a maintenance schedule and actually getting down and dirty in the garden, it’s a project that requires hard work and perseverance.

Responsibility, teamwork, problem-solving, patience

Learn more: How One School Garden Transformed a Neighborhood

14. Time-management challenge

We all have days when our list of tasks is huge, and the amount of time we have to complete them just isn’t. When time is tight and your agenda is packed, you’ve got to prioritize tasks and work efficiently! This activity gives students the opportunity to practice just that by presenting them with a long list of tasks to complete in a limited time frame.

Make a list of tasks on chart paper, assigning a point value for each job. For example: Do 25 jumping jacks (5 points); make up a nickname for each member of the group (5 points); get every person in the class to sign a piece of paper (15 points); form a conga line and conga from one end of the room to the other (5 points; 10 bonus points if anyone joins you); etc. Make sure you list enough tasks to take up more than 10 minutes.

Divide your students into groups of five or six and give them 10 minutes to collect as many points as they can by deciding which tasks to perform. A debriefing session is essential with this game. Guide your students to think about how they made decisions, which group dynamics came into play, and how they determined the value of each task.

Negotiation, critical thinking, communication, time management

15. Vision boards

Unleash your students’ creativity while simultaneously helping them set goals for the future with a vision board. We don’t frequently take the time to express who we are and what we hope for. Setting aside time to contemplate can motivate teens to think deeply about what they really want in life and also fuel their desire to do what’s necessary in order to reach their dreams.

Self-confidence, motivation, critical thinking

Learn more: Why Teachers Should Create Vision Boards With Their Students from Study All Knight

16. Collaborative contract

This exercise for middle schoolers helps them establish values-based ground rules for a team. Each student takes an index card and lists three values that they believe will promote a sense of community. Team members discuss the values, consolidating them into more precise categories. They write the finalized list on a poster board, with each student signing it. Whenever there is a dispute, the team should refer to the “contract,” which holds everyone accountable.

The purpose of this exercise is to create a safe space to explore ideas by focusing on common language and shared expectations. Additionally, this activity prepares middle-school students for the workplace by emphasizing similarities rather than differences.

Negotiation, communication, listening, respect

17. Zombie apocalypse

In this two-day lesson, students are required to identify soft skills, literary guides, and everyday objects that will help them survive a zombie apocalypse. They’ll work both cooperatively and independently and produce short pieces of persuasive writing to argue in favor of their survival.

Teamwork, interpersonal skills (collaboration), problem-solving

Learn more: Zombie Invasion Plan  from Sarah Andrasik

18. Stoke their competitive fire

According to teacher Christine Weis , there’s nothing like a little healthy competition in the classroom. “It motivates students and drives them to put forth their best effort,” she says. “It sparks interest, passion, and ignites a fire within.” Not only can healthy competition build confidence, it can encourage students to learn something new and develop new skills. Try games, puzzles, sports, quiz competitions, team presentations, etc., to motivate your students to reach a higher level.

Motivation, work ethic, problem-solving, self-confidence

Learn more: 7 Motivational Activities for Students from The Homeschool Resource Room

19. The blindfold game

Teens leading one another around in blindfolds? Are we sure this is a good idea? The answer is yes when it’s part of a structured, purposeful job-readiness skills activity like this one!

You’ll need a large space for this activity (maybe the cafeteria after lunch or the gym during an off-period), enough blindfolds for half of the participants, and furniture and other items that you can use as obstacles (cardboard boxes, pillows, chairs, tables). Scatter furniture and objects around the room before the activity begins. Your course should be challenging but safe to navigate.

Pair students and have them line up at one end of the room. One person from each pair should put on the blindfold. The sighted person must guide their partner across the room and give them clear oral instructions (without touching them) to help them avoid the obstacles. When each team reaches the far side of the room, partners can switch roles and repeat the exercise. Have just a few pairs tackle the course at a time so that the others can observe. Take some time between rounds to process what went well, what didn’t, and what could make the challenge easier.

Communication, listening, respect (taking the task and their partner’s safety seriously), flexibility

20. Take a mini crash course

Our teens may almost look like adults, but we have to remember they still have a lot to learn. And sometimes the best way to teach them what they need to know is to just spell it out. This video is a no-nonsense tutorial about some of the job-readiness skills that employers find valuable. Hold a screening, then after the video, have students form breakout groups to talk about what portion of the video they found most helpful and what they need to work on.

Communication, listening, critical thinking

21. Human knot

Nothing promotes job-readiness skills such as cooperation like getting all tangled up with your classmates — literally!

Players stand in a circle and reach out to shake hands with other players, with each hand holding that of a different person, creating a “human knot.” Then the players have to figure out how to untangle their bodies without letting go of each other’s hands. This activity lends itself to a vibrant debriefing session as students observe their communication and cooperation skills.

Teamwork, communication, problem-solving

Learn more: The Human Knot Game from Icebreaker Ideas

22. Mind your mental health

Managing stress in school (and on the job) is a timely subject. With mental health issues on the rise across the country, it’s critical to teach your students strategies that will help them stay grounded and build resilience. After all, it’s hard to do your best in any endeavor when you’re stressed to the max. Try the empowering activities below to teach students how to manage stress so they can succeed in college, on the job, and in the future.

Self-confidence, problem-solving, leadership

Learn more: 22 Empowering Mental Health Activities for Teens

23. Rope Circle Shimmy

Divide teens into two groups. Each group should have a minimum of five members. To begin play, make a big circle out of rope for each team and put it on the floor. Each member of the team stands at the edges of the circle, so the rope is taut around their ankles, while holding their hands in the air.

Team members must take turns moving to work the rope up from ankles to wrists, keeping hands in the air at all times. The team member will have to wiggle and move to slide the rope up. Other team members can help by keeping the rope as taut as possible. The team that finishes the challenge first wins!

Communication, flexibility, interpersonal skills (cooperation)

Learn more: Looped to Rope from Mom Junction

24. Four-card negotiation

Sometimes to get ahead in life, you have to know how to wheel and deal. This is entirely what this lesson is all about. The objective is for teams to trade and barter for pieces of cards to match up with the pieces they already have and ultimately end up with four complete playing cards.

Start with a pile of playing cards (four cards per team of four or five students). Cut each card diagonally into four pieces and mix all of the pieces together. Now divide the mixed-up pieces evenly among the teams. Give teams a couple of minutes to sort out their card pieces and figure out which pieces they have and which pieces are missing. Set a timer for 10 minutes. The goal of the game is for the students to use their negotiation skills with the other teams in order to gain as many complete cards as possible for their team. At the end of 10 minutes, the team with the most cards wins.

Negotiation, communication, interpersonal skills

25. Pair up with younger kids

Nothing helps teens build responsibility like pairing up with a younger buddy. Being the more mature, more experienced partner in the relationship gives teens the opportunity to share what they know and learn to be a leader. Have your students plan fun activities and special events with their buddies.

Responsibility, leadership, problem-solving, listening, patience

Learn more: 20 Activities for Big Buddy/Little Buddy Time from Create, Dream, Explore

26. Blind spelling practice

Weaving soft-skills activities into everyday curriculum is a win for everyone. Enhance your students’ interpersonal skills with this fun spelling activity. Tape letters to each student’s back. Then call out a definition of a word. Students will need to work together to assemble in the right order to spell the word correctly.

Communication, listening, negotiation, problem-solving

Learn more:  Manuel Antonio Noronha

27. Practice small talk

Teenagers aren’t exactly known for their chitchat skills. In fact, for many it is one of the most awkward situations they can imagine being put in. But small talk is considered a foundational job-readiness skill that is important for almost every job, as well as learning to network. Many teens feel awkward speaking with people they’re not used to speaking to and need practice, especially with adults. Try some free conversation starters that will help them practice the “three P’s” of small talk: being polite, positive, and professional.

Communication, listening, self-confidence, patience, respect

Learn more: Conversation Starters on the Job from Realityworks

28. Blind drawing

Try this hilarious activity with your teens. It’s kind of like “telephone” but instead of listening, each person must pay close attention to what is being drawn on their back. Each student in the line gets a blank sheet of paper taped to their back and a marker. The student at the end begins by slowly drawing an image on the person’s paper in front of them. When that person feels what’s being drawn, they try to re-create what they’re feeling on the person of front of them. When the image is complete, have the students take off their papers and compare the results. This activity is a colorful reminder that people often perceive things very differently, so communication is extremely important!

Communication, teamwork, patience

29. Mock interviews

The prospect of going on a job interview can be terrifying to a kid who’s never had a job before. Practicing job-readiness skills like interviewing can help them reduce the fear factor and build their confidence. Pair students up and assign one teen the role of interviewer and one the role of interviewee. Use a set of job interview questions to practice with.

Give each pair 15 minutes, then have them talk about how the interview went. The interviewer may have some valuable insight for the interviewee. Then have the partners switch roles and repeat. After they’ve had practice with their peers, invite a few adults into the room to conduct mock interviews.

Interview skills, critical thinking, self-confidence

Learn more: Job Interview Questions for Teens from Understood for All

30. Group storytelling

Create small groups of three to eight students. The first person makes up the first line of a story and says it out loud. The second person says, “Yes, and …,” continuing the story. Play continues around the group until everyone has contributed or until the story has come to a satisfactory ending. Since students don’t know what’s coming, they have to learn how to listen carefully and react and communicate well on the fly. As an alternative, to have students listen even more carefully, have them continue the story with the phrase, “because …”

Communication, listening, critical thinking, presentation

31. Team pen

Sometimes it takes the whole team to produce results. This fun game involves a marker with four to six strings tied to it and a blank piece of paper. The teacher calls out a word and the team has to work together to legibly print the word on the paper. Students will have to think carefully and cooperate with one another to maneuver the pen correctly to write the word.

Communication, teamwork, patience, critical thinking

Be sure to visit McGraw Hill’s Career Explorations page for more information about their career and technical education resources for middle and high school.

Also, check out these “would you rather” questions to get teens thinking about their future careers..

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5 Great Games for Teaching Your Students About Responsibility

Your students will have fun becoming more responsible young people. Continue Reading

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Activities to Develop Writing Skills in Students: 10 Amazing Activities to Skyrocket Writing Skills in Students

In today’s fast-paced educational landscape, engaging in activities to develop writing skills in students is crucial for achieving academic success. Mastering effective writing techniques is essential for students aiming for academic success.

Whether you’re in college, high school, or any other educational institution, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively through writing is a critical skill.

Writing assignments, homework, and research papers are integral parts of the learning process, and excelling in these areas can significantly impact your overall academic performance.

As students navigate through their academic journey, they often encounter the challenge of producing high-quality written work under tight deadlines.

This is where the question “ who will write my research paper ” often arises.

While seeking external help is an option, developing strong writing skills is a more sustainable and beneficial approach.

In this article, we will explore various effective writing techniques that can help you succeed in your educational endeavors.

In this post, we will explore ten amazing activities to develop writing skills in students, ensuring they excel academically and confidently express their ideas.

The Importance of Effective Writing in Education

Enhancing communication skills.

Effective writing is a cornerstone of successful communication in both academic and professional settings. When students learn to articulate their thoughts clearly and concisely, they are better equipped to convey their ideas and arguments. This not only helps in writing assignments and homework but also prepares them for future career opportunities where strong communication skills are highly valued.

Boosting Academic Performance

Good writing skills are directly linked to better academic performance. Teachers and professors often evaluate students based on the quality of their written work. By mastering effective writing techniques, students can ensure that their assignments and research papers meet the expected standards, resulting in higher grades and improved academic outcomes.

Effective Writing Techniques for Modern Education Success

Planning and Organizing

Before you start writing, it’s crucial to plan and organize your thoughts. Here are some steps to help you get started:

• Brainstorming: Take a few minutes to brainstorm ideas and jot down key points you want to cover in your assignment or research paper.
• Outlining: Create a detailed outline to structure your content logically. This helps in maintaining a clear flow of information throughout your writing.

Research and Evidence

Conduct thorough research to gather relevant information and evidence to support your arguments. Use credible sources such as academic journals, books, and reputable websites. Properly citing your sources adds credibility to your work and helps avoid plagiarism.

Clear and Concise Writing

Aim for clarity and conciseness in your writing. Avoid using overly complex language and jargon that might confuse your readers. Instead, focus on presenting your ideas in a straightforward and understandable manner.

• Use Simple Language: Write in a way that is easy to read and comprehend.
• Be Direct: Get to the point quickly and avoid unnecessary filler content.

Revising and Editing

Revision and editing are crucial steps in the writing process. After completing your first draft, take the time to review and refine your work. Pay attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Additionally, ensure that your content flows logically and that your arguments are well-supported.

• Proofreading: Carefully proofread your work to catch any mistakes.
• Feedback: Consider seeking feedback from peers or instructors to gain a fresh perspective on your writing.

Tips for Writing Different Types of Assignments

When writing essays, it’s important to develop a clear thesis statement and support it with well-structured paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea and provide evidence to back up your claims.

Research Papers

Research papers require a more in-depth approach. Start by formulating a research question and conducting extensive research. Organize your findings into sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and conclusion.

Reports are typically more structured and formal. Follow a specific format, including headings and subheadings, to organize your content. Present your findings in a clear and logical manner, supported by data and analysis.

Strategies for Managing Writing Assignments

Time management.

Effective time management is key to handling multiple writing assignments simultaneously. Create a schedule that allocates sufficient time for research, writing, and revision. Break down your tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Prioritization

Prioritize your assignments based on their deadlines and complexity. Focus on completing high-priority tasks first while allocating time for less urgent assignments. This approach helps you stay on track and meet all your deadlines.

Seeking Help

If you find yourself struggling with a particular assignment, don’t hesitate to seek help. Consult your teachers, use online resources, or join study groups. Remember, asking for assistance is a sign of proactivity and determination to succeed.

FAQ: Activities to Develop Writing Skills in Students

What are the 3 types of writing activities.

The three types of writing activities are creative writing, analytical writing, and reflective writing. Creative writing involves imaginative tasks like storytelling and poetry. Analytical writing includes essays and research papers, while reflective writing focuses on personal insights through journals and personal essays.

How to help a child improve writing skills?

To help a child improve writing skills, encourage daily writing practice and regular reading to enhance their vocabulary and comprehension. Additionally, provide positive feedback and constructive criticism to motivate and guide their progress.

What are writing activities and examples?

Writing activities are tasks designed to improve writing skills through practice and creativity. Examples include creative writing (short stories, poems), analytical writing (essays, research papers), and reflective writing (journals, personal essays). These activities help develop various aspects of writing, from imagination to critical thinking and self-expression.

Conclusion : Activities to Develop Writing Skills in Students

Mastering effective writing techniques is crucial for students aiming for academic success. By enhancing your communication skills, boosting your academic performance, and following a structured approach to writing, you can excel in your studies. While the temptation to look for the best dissertation writing service may arise, developing strong writing skills will benefit you in the long run. Embrace these techniques and watch your academic achievements soar.

Effective writing is a skill that will serve you well beyond your school years, opening doors to countless opportunities in your future career. Start practicing these techniques today, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a proficient and confident writer.

Readers, please share these activities to develop writing skills in students.

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