What steps have you taken this year to encourage your professional development?
The interviewer wants evidence that you have taken responsibility for your career path by being accountable for your personal and professional development. The goal of your response is to take the interviewer through the steps you have actively taken this year to contribute to your professional development.
"At the beginning of each year, I make a plan for what I would like to accomplish in my personal and professional life. This year, my plan included attending two industry conferences and expanding my local network by attending more business commerce meetings. I also enrolled in a course on leadership to learn new ways to boost team productivity through relationship building. I am so glad that I took these initiatives this year as I believe the skills I developed will significantly contribute to my success with Company ABC."
"This year, I have been accepting more responsibilities at work and taking on more tasks without being asked. I committed to perfect attendance at work this year and have been reading more business books in my personal time. I have a list of top 25 leadership books, and I plan to get through the list before the end of the year. So far, I have completed the first eight books and have noticed a boost in my professional performance already!"
Avoid giving an excuse-based response like, 'I have been so busy this year, it's been impossible for me to focus on my professional development.' Yes, you have likely been busy; however, the interviewer wants to hear more about your interest in your growth versus how overworked you feel. Instead, be prepared to talk about even one small thing you do to contribute to your success. Your response doesn't have to be grand. For instance, perhaps you recently listened to a podcast on boosting your communication skills, or maybe you have started to seek out a mentor.
There are many straightforward ways to take advantage of professional development. These opportunities include:
- Reading books and articles from thought leaders in your industry
- Taking online courses to gain new skills
- Attending industry conferences to grow your network
- Listening to podcasts and audiobooks related to your professional interests
At the end of your response, be sure to spotlight how your professional development initiatives will contribute to your success in this new role.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I listen to speakers and podcasts.
I read books to grow and learn.
Kevin's Feedback
Your answer needs more. Always ask if you would hire you based on your answers. Most interviewers will choose the candidates who go above-and-beyond with their answers. Anyone can claim to listen to speakers and podcasts and read to grow. By offering that as your answer, how have you sold them on your merits? Try offering up details on the speakers and podcasts you listen to the most. When it comes to books, which are your favorite? Also, what is your approach to your professional development on the job?
“In my off hours I listen to podcasts, and read everything I can to stay up to date on all the developments in the industry. If you’re interested, I can make a list of the podcasts and TED Talks I’m into. I enjoy sharing those with others in the field who’d appreciate them. But, as far as encouraging my self development on the job, that’s easy to answer.
I’m careful to not take on too much work at any given time. I am never the kind of worker who over-promises and under-delivers. But when I have enough room on my plate, and my time management skills are outstanding, I will take on any work that falls outside of my comfort zone. If it feels attainable, and it also feels scary, then I go for it. That is the perfect combination for developing oneself professionally. That, and ever constant clear communication.”
