Because there are training classes focused on almost every topic related to the workplace, it can be challenging to decide which ones are the best use of your time. If you have the opportunity to suggest a training topic for your team or pick out a training class for yourself, try using these tips to decide:
- Consider your passions: Consider topics that interest you, regardless of whether they fit traditional expectations for your job. Many companies offer training materials that use unconventional or creative subjects to enhance workplace skills.
- Review past training: If you’ve already participated in professional development training, look at the schedule to determine what topics you’ve already addressed. You can pursue follow-ups to a class you enjoyed or look for gaps in the issues you’ve already discussed.
- Browse your performance reviews: Look at past performance reviews or perform a personal inventory of skills to see what areas you could improve on, and look for topics on those subjects.
Diversity
Learning more about diversity in the workplace can help people develop a positive company culture and create a more welcoming and affirming environment. Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives can contribute to a more socially conscious and inclusive workplace that enables everyone to use their unique experience to succeed. These training topics identify many of the factors that contribute to diversity and discrimination issues at work:
- Cultural sensitivity
- Micro-aggressions
- Gender wage gap
- Creating an accessible workplace
- Invisible disabilities
- Reporting and addressing discrimination
- Pronouns and gender identity
- Sexuality in the workplace
- Addressing unconscious bias
- Building a diverse and inclusive workplace
