If you want a successful business, you need to not only value your employees, but show them you value them. Two of the things you can offer employees which will benefit not only them, but also your company are career development and training. These things are really no brainers. They are what our American cousins would refer to as win-win.

Time and time again research has shown these are the most important factors which influence an employee’s commitment and engagement. The fact is everybody realises the ultimate responsibility for managing their careers and personal development is their own. In very blunt terms, if employees do not expand their abilities and knowledge base, they will be found wanting either by their current employer or by the job market as a whole.

Career development is also essential for organisations. One of the most pressing areas for all businesses is succession planning. In many companies, the leaders will be looking at retirement in 5 to 10 years time. These businesses need to ensure they have identified employees to take over when the time comes. These people will need to be properly trained for their future roles. This will also help with their retention.