A guide to securing approval for your professional development
In the ever-evolving landscape of the Australian mining sector, continuous learning through professional development (PD) gives you the skills and knowledge you need to perform your job at a high level and keeps you up to date with changes to best practice, regulations and legislation.
Undertaking PD not only enriches you as an individual mining professional but also brings numerous benefits to your mining business.
While most organisations support staff PD, structural complexities, budget constraints, and industry shifts can sometimes result in delays or resistance. Convincing your boss to support your PD fosters your professional growth and contributes significantly to the success of the sector.
Here is our recommended approach for ensuring your organisation recognises the merits of your professional development.
Outline direct business benefits
Align your PD goals with your company's overarching objectives. Clearly convey how investing in your development will enhance productivity, elevate skills, and boost team morale. Utilise our provided email template (available here) for swift and effective communication with business leaders.
Tailor your email by selecting the learning outcomes that specifically address your business’ challenges. All of AusIMM’s Online Courses, developed and delivered by industry experts, are comprised of learning outcomes that are highly relevant to the resources sector, making it easy to align outcomes with your company’s objectives. Simply copy and paste from the list provided.
For example, a business may have the following objectives:
(1) To be a leader in innovation and creativity
(2) to have no major unplanned operational interruptions
(3) to grow profits safely and sustainably.
Taking the AusIMM Enabling Optimal Performance Short Course as an example, participants can support the first business objective by learning how to maximise the achievement of strategic goals through innovative organisational design.
The course also provides insights into employee engagement, contractor management, and leveraging cultural differences, directly contributing to the goal of having no major unplanned operational interruptions.
Further, the Course’s focus on people-centric approaches to site safety culture and emergency preparedness would enable the participant to grow profits safely and sustainably.
Provide real-life examples of participant growth
By presenting real-life examples of Australian mining companies that have thrived after prioritising employee development, you can make a compelling case for the positive impact it can have on the business. You can share past participant testimonials or interviews with course facilitators who speak directly on how the course helps mining businesses to succeed in the sector.
Address the logistics
Practicality is key when seeking approval for PD. Outline a clear plan that shows how you can balance your site or office responsibilities with your learning initiatives. Propose flexible learning options and time management strategies that align with your roster and operation schedules. AusIMM’s Courses are all 100% online with live sessions available as recordings, so that you never miss out on key information and can complete the course in your own time.
Consider cost-effective solutions
Investigate if you can attain savings for the business and include this in your email.
For example, with AusIMM Courses you can access member savings or group training discounts. As well as having access to group chats, exclusive forums and industry experts with decades of experience, you will gain useful resources you can take from the course and apply directly in your workplace.
By presenting a well-thought-out plan tailored to your specific operation, you not only make it easier for your boss to support your PD but also showcase your commitment to professional growth and your desire to make the process seamless for your broader team. Embrace the opportunity to enhance your skills and contribute to the growth of your business and the broader mining sector.