Barriers To Professional Development

A study by the Chartered Management Institute published this week reveals that job prospects are increasingly being influenced by an individual’s commitment to their long-term professional development. However, it also uncovers major barriers preventing significant numbers from improving their skills.

The findings show 64 per cent of employers – and 74 per cent of individuals - believe management qualifications will grow in importance over the next 5 years. Individuals and employers also agree that ‘proof of academic prowess’ is no longer a key driver for taking a qualification.

However, the report shows that desire to secure formal recognition is not matched by action, with only 1 in 5 individuals holding a management qualification.

The study suggests that low uptake of professional development is caused by a series of barriers. One of the key difficulties is the complexity of the qualifications system, with 65 per cent arguing too many qualifications exist and 51 per cent agreeing that the different levels are confusing.

The most widely felt barrier is the impact of study on managers’ time. Many agreed that it diverts energy from other interests (56 per cent), family (53 per cent) and their work (40 per cent). A significant proportion also said they sought employer investment, with 43 per cent seeking full-funding and 39 per cent looking for partial financial contributions.

The results of the CIM study, The Value of Management Qualifications, can be downloaded in pdf format from the Institute’s website.