The next generation of employees seeks opportunities to grow and rise within the management ranks or develop new skills that will make them eligible for a pay raise or a new position. To make that goal a reality, professionals aiming for career advancement must cultivate robust skill sets that distinguish them in a competitive market.
To help rising business professionals master problem-solving, leadership and communication, Avila University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (B.B.A.) with a concentration in Interdisciplinary Business program offers a strong foundation in the core competencies required to succeed. With coursework in everything from accounting and marketing to statistical analysis and business planning, students have the chance to explore a wide range of business skills and discover where their passion lies.
Positioning for Career Growth Through Professional Development
Continuous professional development is pivotal for career progression. Data provided by ClearCompany shows that 76% of employees are looking for opportunities to expand their careers, and 10% more are willing to switch jobs for a position that offers more chances to grow. Organizations see a 24% productivity increase when they invest resources into “upskilling” or “reskilling” training for workers.
In an evolving professional landscape, technical expertise alone is not enough. Adapting your skill set to meet evolving work demands is crucial for career advancement. The global job matching and hiring platform lists adaptability, clear and concise speaking, innovation, and self-management as some of the top qualities employers seek during the interview process.
While hard skills open doors to job opportunities, soft skills determine long-term career success. Forbes notes the growing value of skills-based learning. By investing in skills that will transfer across specializations and economic sectors, rising business leaders can future-proof their careers and adapt to the changing demands of the workforce.
As Elizabeth Perry points out in an article from BetterUp, professional development can take many forms, including attending workshops, obtaining certifications, enrolling in higher education programs and engaging in mentorship opportunities. Networking with industry leaders and actively seeking peer feedback can also help refine these crucial skills.
Identifying Leadership Skills That Inspire Teams
Effective leadership is characterized by the ability to inspire and guide teams toward achieving common goals. Strong leaders understand how to motivate their teams, foster collaboration and drive organizational success. Leadership is not merely about holding a managerial title but encompasses a set of essential skills that empower individuals to influence and guide others.
One core competency that successful leaders spend time developing is emotional intelligence (EQ). EQ refers to how well leaders manage their and others’ emotions to resolve conflict and create a positive work environment. Per Perry, having a high EQ — along with patience, persuasion and rapport-building — can help in negotiations with staff members and other company leaders. A strong leader also creates a culture of trust, collaboration and innovation. By developing leadership qualities, professionals can position themselves for management roles and take on greater responsibilities within their organizations.
Many successful professionals engage in executive coaching, training programs and mentorship opportunities to refine their leadership abilities. Others decide to pursue those skills through a formal degree program.
Prepare for New Leadership Opportunities With Avila University’s Online BBA
The elective course options in Avila University’s online B.B.A. in Interdisciplinary Business program enable students to customize their education to reach their personal career goals while still gaining a solid foundation in business studies. With options to focus on finance, management, economics and other core subjects, graduates can go on to career paths in human resources, marketing and financial roles.
Continuous professional development, coupled with targeted education programs like Avila University’s online B.B.A. with a concentration in Interdisciplinary Business, allows professionals to unlock new opportunities, increase their earning potential and position themselves for leadership roles in their respective industries.
Learn more about Avila University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a concentration in Interdisciplinary Business programs.
