This is a modified version of an article that first appeared in the April 2024 issue of Strategies & Tactics. Reprinted with permission of PRSA, 2025.
The start of a new year is always a natural time to reflect, recharge and set meaningful goals. Whether you’re pursuing new opportunities, enhancing your skills or stepping into a leadership role, professional development can be the key to unlocking success.
Watching team members and colleagues set inspiring personal and professional development goals has encouraged me to revisit a topic I’ve written about before with a fresh perspective.
Last year, I explored four unique professional development styles in an article for PRSA’s Strategies and Tactics. Reflecting on those ideas, I wanted to share them with the KWI network – keeping it short, practical and action oriented so you can jump right in to discovering your approach and turn 2025 into a year of growth and success.
Four Professional Development Styles:
The Networker
For those who thrive on connection
Networking isn’t just about meeting new people — it’s about building and nurturing meaningful relationships. Networkers excel in one-on-one or group settings like after-hours events, alumni mixers or virtual coffee chats.
Try this: List five professionals you admire and send them authentic, personalized notes inviting them to connect. Whether you want to learn more about their career journey, are seeking advice or simply want to expand your network, you never know where a conversation could lead!
The Scholar
For the perpetual learner
Scholars are driven by curiosity and a love for learning, and they seek out intellectual stimulation through continuous learning opportunities. They may go back to school, listen to podcasts or spend their free time reading career development books. They’re passionate about continuous improvement and applying new knowledge to their work.
Try this: Commit to reading one professional development book each quarter. Need recommendations? Ask your network or dive into reviews to find a title that aligns with your goals.
The Experiential Learner
For those who grow through doing
Experiential learners seek out on-the-job learning and growth opportunities that will help advance their career, from leading a project to shadowing a colleague or tackling something outside their comfort zone. They are hands-on problem solvers, always looking to improve and expand their skills.
Try this: Identify three skills you’d like to develop this year (e.g., mastering Excel or developing presentation skills). Share your goals with your manager for support and look to create opportunities where you can practice and grow in these areas.
The Joiner
For the community builder
Joiners find energy by connecting with like-minded individuals in clubs, associations or resource groups. For them, professional development is a team sport, enriched by collaboration and community.
Try this: Research one organization or group related to your field and attend their next event. You’ll gain insights, connections and inspiration all at once.
As you explore these styles, remember there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to growth. You might find yourself identifying with more than one, and that’s OK! The important thing is to take steps toward growth that resonate with you and your goals.
Let 2025 be the year where you fuel your journey with professional development and take steps toward exciting career milestones ahead.
