It involves training that can help an individual enjoy career success. This type of training can vary greatly in topic, scope and even length of commitment. It might involve courses taken in advance of entering a particular career field. It can also focus on classes designed to help career professionals hone their existing skills, keep them up to date or even advance them into new areas.
Where would you like to be in your career five or ten years from now? What skills will you need to learn or improve upon to reach your goals? How will you learn these skills? Career development is about asking and answering these questions. It is about skill development and lifelong learning.
Some of the competencies you desire may be technical, managerial, or leadership oriented. They may be learned on the job, through mentoring relationships, by taking courses and attending conferences, by participation in professional societies, or through professional licensure. Think about which activities best fit your needs now and in the future, because career development is essential to advancing in your career and growing as a successful professional.