National Career Development Month
Ideas for Employee Development
By Latrice Lewis, Senior Business Development Specialist, MBA, CPRW, GCDF, CBEP, CWDP
Each November, organizations across the country recognize National Career Development Month, a time dedicated to helping individuals explore pathways for professional growth and lifelong learning. For employers, it’s not only a chance to spotlight career advancement opportunities within their organizations but also to reaffirm a commitment to employee development and retention. When companies invest in their people, they strengthen both morale and productivity—creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and can thrive.
One of the most effective ways employers can participate is by offering skills training and development workshops. Providing access to courses, webinars, or cross-training opportunities helps employees expand their capabilities and stay current with evolving industry trends. Whether it’s technical certifications or leadership development, these programs empower staff to advance their careers while contributing greater value to the organization. Want to assess your team’s AI readiness? Start with this free training resource:
A second way to support employees is through career coaching and mentoring programs. Pairing team members with experienced leaders encourages personalized guidance and fosters professional confidence. These connections help employees identify their strengths, set meaningful goals, and envision clear career paths within the company—boosting engagement and reducing turnover.
Employers can also promote internal mobility by creating transparent pathways for advancement. Encouraging internal job postings, project rotations, and shadowing opportunities allows employees to explore new roles without leaving the organization. Additionally, offering individual development plans (IDPs) and regular career check-ins ensures employees feel seen, supported, and guided toward long-term success.
Do your employees know the career pathways within your organization? Check out these resources:
Finally, recognition plays a key role in career satisfaction. Employers should celebrate learning achievements, certifications, and professional milestones throughout National Career Development Month. Publicly acknowledging these accomplishments not only motivates some individuals but also signals that growth is an organizational priority. When employees know their efforts are valued, they are more likely to invest in their own development and the company’s future.
While no strategy guarantees retention, research shows that employees whose employers invest in their development feel more valued and are more likely to stay.