As an employee, it’s easy to get stuck in the routine of just showing up to work, completing tasks, and going home. However, without taking active steps to improve your skills and grow in your role, you risk stagnating and potentially falling behind others who are taking their personal and professional development seriously. This is where having a Personal Development Plan (PDP) comes into play.
A PDP is a roadmap that outlines your career goals, where you currently stand, and what steps you’ll take to get there. While creating a PDP may seem like a solo activity, it’s beneficial to have the support and guidance of your manager to help you create a plan that aligns with your company’s goals. Here are five easy steps to help you agree on a PDP with your manager.
1. Initiate the conversation
Before jumping into discussing a PDP, it’s important to initiate the conversation with your manager to seek their support. This can be done through scheduling a meeting or casually mentioning your interest in personal development during a 1-on-1 session. Keep in mind that your manager may not be aware of what a PDP is, so it’s essential to explain the concept and its benefits.
2. Review your job description and company’s objectives
With your manager’s support, begin reviewing your job description and identifying key areas where you’d like to improve. Additionally, review the company’s objectives to ensure that your PDP aligns with them. This will help you understand the skills and competencies that are important for your specific role, and ensure that your PDP contributes to the overall success of the company.
3. Set clear and measurable goals
Once you’ve identified the areas you’d like to improve, it’s time to set clear and measurable goals. Your goals should be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) and based on areas where you can realistically improve. For example, if you want to improve your communication skills, your goal could be to attend a public speaking course.
4. Identify learning and development opportunities
With your goals in mind, work with your manager to identify learning and development opportunities that will help you achieve them. This could be attending courses, conferences, or workshops, or even taking on a project that challenges you to work on your identified areas of improvement.
5. Regularly review and revise your plan
Once you’ve created your PDP, it’s essential to regularly review and revise it to ensure that you’re on track with your goals. This can be done during 1-on-1 sessions with your manager or in an informal conversation. By regularly reviewing your PDP, you’ll be able to identify any barriers to achieving your goals and take steps to overcome them.
In conclusion, creating a PDP with the support and guidance of your manager is an excellent way to improve your skills, grow in your career, and contribute to the success of your company. By taking these five easy steps, you’ll be on your way to creating a plan that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Remember to be open-minded and flexible, and don’t be afraid to pivot if you find that your goals or plan are not working out as expected.
