How to Get Approval for a Professional Development Budget

One of my top 3 values is growth. And based on the fact that you're reading this right now, I'm guessing growth and learning are pretty important to you as well. So sooner or later, you might find yourself in a situation when you're craving to make an investment in yourself and experience accelerated growth. I think this is particularly common in situations when we move into new or bigger responsibilities. But what if your company doesn't offer the training program you're looking for? You got three options in that situation: Let it be and not invest in any training Take charge and invest out of pocket (btw, about 50% of my clients do this because they know it's ultimately about their career success and even a small bump in their year-end bonus will net out the upfront investment) Ask your boss for a professional development budget And if option 3 is something you want to explore, then listen to this week's podcast episode. I'll walk you through the different aspects to consider and how to frame your request to make a strong case and get the support and training you need to rise to the increasing demands you're facing. And if you're still unsure if it's ok to ask, then this reference point might help: According to the Association of Talent Development (ATD) the average organization spent USD 1,267 per employee for direct learning in 2020 and the spending is on the rise. -- RESOURCES MENTIONED -- Leadership Development Request Template Letter Leadership Accelerator Program _____ Grab your copy of Ramona's best-selling new book 'The Confident & Competent New Manager: How to Rapidly Rise to Success in Your First Leadership Role': https://amzn.to/3TuOdcP If this episode inspired you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening on your device and post it to your Instagram Stories, and tag me @ramona.shaw.leadership or DM me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramona-shaw/ Are you in your first manager role and don't want to mess it up? Watch our FREE Masterclass and discover the 4 shifts to become a leader people love to work for --> www.ramonashaw.com/masterclass Don't forget to invest time each week to increase your self-awareness, celebrate your wins, and learn from mistakes. Your career grows only to the extent that you grow. Grab your Career Journal with leadership exercises and weekly reflections here: www.ramonashaw.com/shop Love the podcast and haven’t left a review yet? All you have to do is go to https://www.ramonashaw.com/itunes and give your honest review. Thanks for your support of this show!* Disclaimer: Shownotes may contain affiliate links. That means that I am awarded a small commission for purchases made through them, at no added cost to you.