DISCUSSION: TRAINING OR CAREER DEVELOPMENT? 2
What is the difference between training and career development? Of these two concepts,
which is more likely to increase retention in an organization? Why?
Dictionary.com describes training as “making proficient through instruction and practice,
as in some art, profession, or work” (“Dictionary.com | Meanings & Definitions of English
Words,” 2024). As noted in our course materials, “training is an intentional effort in facilitating
the learning of job-related knowledge, skills, and behavior by employees and things needed for
employment” (Noe et al., 2023). Training is the “first line of defense” for any new employee,
spanning a broad spectrum from sexual harassment to specific, job-related training. Lots of jobs
require training of some sort and on certain subject matter areas, they repeat specific training
annually. For example, all government and military installations require cyber awareness, sexual
harassment, and suicide prevention training annually. Training is essential for employees to gain
awareness of pertinent policies in place for a company. Once initial company training is
completed, job-specific training is completed. Continuous learning is a “learning system that
requires employees to understand the entire work process and expects them to acquire new skills,
apply them on the job, and share what they have learned with other employees” (Noe et al.,
2023). Staying current with products and procedures is what gives a company cutting-edge
resource opportunities and the best way for that to happen is with continuous learning and
training opportunities for employees. However, “talented employees expect support for
development and future growth opportunities, otherwise they might look for opportunities with
other companies” (Noe et al., 2023). Employees looking to grow, develop, and expand beyond
the level they began, will not be happy with basic and minimal training procedures; instead, they
are looking for career and leadership development opportunities.
DISCUSSION: TRAINING OR CAREER DEVELOPMENT? 3
In Matthew 13:31, Jesus says, “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a
man took and planted in his field. 32Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is
the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches”
(New International Version, n.d.). When we plant seeds, we tend them with nurturing and care,
having the intention of them growing to fruition, blossoming, and delivering to us the full
potential of their design, just as Jesus stated in his parable. We all want to grow to our potential,
and we seek out places that will pour into us, those opportunities for growth and leadership
rather than remaining stagnant.
When focusing on career development, it is good to work in groups that are
supportive and have a good and a good sense of inclusion. McCormick states that “it is good for
participants to share the problems or challenges that they wish to work on in the session. Group
members typically find a connection and commonality in these topics as many members have
shared experiences” (McCormick, 2023). This will help boost the confidence of employees to
grow when they feel supported by team members too. McDonald et al. defines career
development as “the process of acquiring and experiencing planned and unplanned activities that
support the attainment of life and work goals” (McDonald et al., 2023). When companies
develop career-enhancing programs for departments that can learn and grow together, it becomes
a win for everyone involved. Employees who feel empowered by their career development
produce more effectively for the company, which, in turn, equals growth and direction for the
company.
DISCUSSION: TRAINING OR CAREER DEVELOPMENT? 4
References
Dictionary.com Meanings & Definitions of English Words. (2024).
InCDictionary.com.Chttps://www.dictionary.com/browse/reverse-discrimination
McCormick, I. (2023). Reflective practice for coaches: a guidebook for advanced professional
development. Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003285144
McDonald, K., & Hite, L. (2023).CCareer development: a human resource development
perspectiveC(Second edition.). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003246381
New international version. (n.d.). http://biblegateway.com. Retrieved February 5, 2024,
fromChttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+13%3A31-
32&version=NIV
Noe, R., Hollenbeck, J., Gerhart, B., Wright, P. (2023). Human resource management: Gaining a
Competitive Advantage. (13th ed.) McGraw-Hill Education
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