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According to the World Economic Forum’s The Future of Jobs Report 2025, employers are investing more into upskilling and reskilling employees, so there may be more budget for professional development for employees. But how do you get your employer to pay for your training and development? Here is how we would do it.

Have you identified a professional development program that aligns perfectly with your career aspirations? The only obstacle? The cost. Here's where your company can step in and help, either fully or partially funding your professional development.

While it might feel daunting to approach your boss about professional development, many companies allocate funds for employee growth. You won't know unless you ask. Although initiating the conversation with your boss about career development can be nerve-wracking, following these tips can increase your chances of securing your employer's investment:

1. Research, Research, Research

Thoroughly research the professional development opportunity and your company's policies. A poorly prepared request can quickly be dismissed.

Key details to gather:

• Research the Program: Thoroughly investigate the program, including its cost, duration, time commitment, curriculum, and potential benefits.
• Understand Your Company's Policy: Familiarize yourself with your company's policies on employee development, tuition reimbursement, and professional development budgets.
• Identify the ROI: Clearly articulate how the program will benefit your role, team, and the organization. Quantify the potential return on investment, such as increased productivity, improved customer satisfaction, or cost savings.

2. Prepare to Prove the Return on Investment (ROI)

Your boss will likely have questions. Being prepared with well-thought-out answers will significantly increase your chances of approval.

• Highlight Key Benefits: Emphasize the specific skills and knowledge you will gain and how they will directly contribute to your current role and future career aspirations.
• Address Potential Concerns: Anticipate questions about the program's cost, time commitment, and potential impact on your workload. Be prepared to offer solutions and assurances.
• Tailor Your Approach: Customize your pitch to your manager's specific interests and priorities. Show how the program aligns with the company's strategic goals.

3. Ask Your Employer

Once you've done your research and prepared your answers, it's time to approach your employer. A well-crafted email can be an effective way to initiate the conversation and set up an in-person meeting.

Things you should consider before reaching out:

• Choose the Right Time: Select a time when your manager is less stressed and has ample time to review your proposal.
• Be Confident and Enthusiastic: Convey your passion for the program and your commitment to your professional growth.
• Be Open to Negotiation: If full funding isn't feasible, explore options like partial funding, flexible work arrangements, or reimbursement for certain expenses.

Proofread your email to ensure clarity, positivity, and professionalism.

4. After Getting Approval

Once you've secured approval, clarify the following details in a follow up email:

• Send a Thank-You Note: Express your gratitude for your manager's time and consideration.
• Document Your Progress: Keep your manager updated on your progress throughout the program. Share any relevant achievements or insights.
• Discuss Post-Program Plans: Discuss how you plan to apply your new skills and knowledge to benefit the company.

By following these steps and demonstrating a clear understanding of the value of professional development, you can increase your chances of securing your employer's support and achieving your career goals. Remember, investing in yourself is an investment in your future.

Dalhousie’s Faculty of Open Learning & Career Development offers hundreds of courses, microcredentials and certificates that can help grow your career. We also offer customizable learning for group enrolments - to get more information, contact openlearning@dal.ca.