How to Ask Your Employer for Training and Development Opportunities

Image from The Gender Spectrum Collection.

Requesting training and development opportunities from your employer can be a game-changer for your career. Whether you’re aiming to upskill, enhance your leadership abilities, or broaden your knowledge in areas like diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), seeking support for professional growth can unlock new doors.

Follow these five steps to confidently make your case:

1. Assess Your Professional Development Needs

Start by identifying your areas for growth. Are you looking to improve technical skills or focus on leadership development? Perhaps you want to deepen your expertise in DEI initiatives. A clear understanding of your goals will help you craft a compelling request that aligns with your organization’s needs.

2. Align Your Request with Business Goals

When discussing your training request, emphasize how it supports the company’s objectives. Highlight how gaining new skills, such as project management, team leadership, or fostering inclusive workplace practices, can benefit the business. For instance, enrolling in a leadership training program could lead to improved team productivity and employee engagement.

3. Demonstrate the Return on Investment (ROI)

Employers are more inclined to approve training requests when they see measurable benefits. Explain how upskilling in areas like data analysis, communication strategies, or DEI training can improve your productivity or enhance team dynamics. Frame your request as a smart investment that will drive workplace efficiency, improve employee retention, and align with the company’s long-term goals.

4. Be Proactive with Solutions

If budget constraints arise, propose alternatives such as online courses, virtual workshops, or attending industry conferences. Offering to share the knowledge gained through lunch-and-learn sessions or team presentations can also amplify the value of your training.

5. Express Commitment and Follow Through

Once your request is approved, approach the opportunity with enthusiasm and dedication. Apply your newly acquired skills to your daily tasks and share insights with your colleagues. Demonstrating the immediate impact of your training will reinforce its value and show your commitment to both personal and organizational growth.

THRIVE is a ten-week virtual program that will develop the next generation of Two-Spirit, queer and trans people managers. Participants will get exclusive access to Two-spirit, queer and trans leaders working at the highest levels of Canadian business and engage in important peer-to-peer discussions. Through live Zoom sessions, collaborative group study, and self-directed work our fifth THRIVE cohort will collectively unlock their potential as out leaders.

We will be hosting an exclusive Information Session about THRIVE on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. Register now and take the first step toward thriving in your leadership career!