As a part of every staff member’s annual performance review, it is important to discuss professional development for the coming year.  Each staff member has a desire to grow and develop, and it is the responsibility of their supervisor to support them in the accomplishment of this goal.  Valuable staff members with a desire to grow and learn are an asset to the University and promote workplace productivity and increase morale for the entire workgroup.

There are many ways to support your staff member in their professional development and career goals.  What is important is to take time to listen to your direct reports on an ongoing basis.  Then, whenever possible, be flexible in your potential response to their needs.  While many individuals are interested in promotional opportunities, others may want a chance to learn new skills, seek new project challenges, or coach and mentor others.  One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to rewarding staff members, so try to match the reward to the person’s particular interest and need.

If you have a staff member interested in promotional opportunities, it is important to be clear about what opportunities may be possible within your unit.  Be honest about what you can or cannot do for the staff member.  An open “I don’t know but we can find out the answer together” is better than a tacit “no”.   Also see section Reclassifying Position. 

• All, or
• UI Learning & Development
• UI Learning & Development Catalog
• Certificate Series
• Learning Online with SkillSoft
• Departmental Training
• Rockhurst University Continuing Education
• Award Programming
• UI Trainers' Network
• UI Learning & Development Resource Center