How to Convince Your Employer to Pay for Your Professional Development
It’s no secret – professional development is a key attribute to your personal growth and the success of your organization. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to ask your company for financial support when you’re ready to take the next career step.
Gaining support for a professional development program requires careful planning and effective communication with your employer. With proper research of your options and preparation to answer the difficult questions, you can effectively demonstrate how investing in your development will create value for you and your company.
This guide will help you build a compelling case to secure approval for professional development opportunities, ensuring both your organization and your career benefit.
Why does professional development matter?
For Employees
- Enhances skills
- Boosts confidence
- Opens career advancement opportunities
For Employers
- Improves employee retention
- Strengthens productivity
- Encourages innovation while reducing recruitment costs
1. Do your research
Before approaching your manager, gather all relevant details about the program and your company’s policies:
About the Program
- Cost: Total fees, payment plans, or financial aid options
- Duration: Start and end dates, time commitment
- Learning Outcomes: Specific skills or knowledge you’ll gain
- Alignment with Goals: How the program supports your role and the company’s objectives
About Your Company
- Check employee handbook or intranet for professional development policies
- Speak with colleagues or HR to understand past practices
- Identify any unused budgets (e.g., team-building or travel funds) that could be redirected
2. Prepare for potential questions
Anticipate your manager’s concerns such as:
3. Develop a sales pitch
When discussing your request, emphasize:
4. Address potential objections
5. Follow up and formalize the agreement
After receiving approval, clarify any stipulations:
- Who pays the bill (upfront or reimbursement)?
- Are there performance requirements (e.g. minimum grade)?
- Is there a commitment to stay with the company post-program?
Example Email Template
When you’re ready to start a conversation, ensure that initial communication with your employer clearly provides the benefits of the professional development program for both you and your company.
You can copy and paste this email template as a starting point for asking your manager for support:
Subject: Request for Professional Development Support
Dear [Manager’s Name],
This message is to discuss an exciting opportunity that will significantly benefit my professional growth and support our team’s success.
I recently discovered [name of program/course/conference], offered by [provider/organization], which focuses on [key topics or skills]. This program aligns closely with my role and our team’s objectives, particularly in [improving leadership skills, enhancing project efficiency, staying updated on industry trends, etc.].
The program costs [$X] and runs from [start date] to [end date]. I am confident the skills and knowledge I gain will directly contribute to our team’s success by [improving team productivity, introducing innovative strategies, reducing reliance on external vendors, etc.].
I look forward to discussing whether the company can support this investment in my development. If budget is a concern, I am open to discussing alternative options, such as partial reimbursement or sharing key insights with the team upon completion.
Thank you for considering my request. I truly appreciate the company’s commitment to employee growth and am eager to apply what I learn to help drive our success. Please let me know a convenient time to discuss this further.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Explore our programs
The Terry College of Business has a variety of programs that help build your credentials. With in-person and online options, you can find a professional development course that fits your schedule and goals.
Want to Learn More?
We’re here to answer any questions you may have about the programs provided by the Terry College of Business Office of Executive Education.
- Associate Director of Open Enrollment Programs & Conferences, Executive Education