Looking back at my fast-tracked and diverse career in sports, you might think that each step was planned but that’s the furthest from the truth. My path was filled with starts, stops, and detours that helped me to identify and experience opportunities that best reflected my interests, strengths, skills, passion and personality. The journey included help with blending my educational background, training in counseling, and experience as an educator and athlete to achieve my career goals. Fortunately, I had some amazing mentors along the way who constantly supported me, contributed to and impressed upon me the importance of ongoing professional development.
Most of the career coaching clients I work with are pursuing a specific position in sports in a specific organization. Few recognize that, given the highly competitive and revolving nature of sports, perhaps what’s most important is possessing the versatile skills, industry knowledge, and strategic network that make one valuable to any organization.
Many organizations provide professional development opportunities for their employees. However, usually, the purpose is to help them perform their jobs better. Nothing wrong with that. Yet, professional development should also include a focus on an individual’s personal and career goals and passions. Doing so increases the likelihood that one obtains the positions that reflect who they are in an environment that is consistent with their values while simultaneously helping the organization to achieve its mission.
Athletes who receive professional development training, support and resources while competing are more likely to be prepared for a smoother, less stressful, enjoyable career transition after their playing days have ended. The same thing can be said for non-athletes.
So why is professional development critical to a successful career? It helps you to:
1) Identify your interests, strengths, passions and skills while building upon the necessary confidence to be successful in any career
2) Stay sharp and remain knowledgeable of industry trends and opportunities which allows you to comfortably communicate your value
3) Remain competitive by being able to accurately communicate your “special sauce,” separating you from others