The happier and more motivated people are, the better they work.
Personal development is the latest big thing when it comes to self-improvement and being the best variant. Many books teach you how to discover your mission in life. Or your purpose on this planet, or even how to find happiness.
Large companies have found motivation in offering personal development programs to their employees. So much so that packages like this are now part of every serious job offer. Like a company car, laptop, or cell phone. The term "personal development" is often associated with interactive team-building programs. When this happens, people are more willing to accept, participate in, and integrate training for difficult skills. They continue their work. For example, a sales skills workshop can become tedious if the trainer doesn't know how to engage the audience. When this training happens over a three-day interactive program, it's considered part of the fun.
Employers like to allocate resources for employee development for one simple reason. The happier and more motivated people are, the better off their jobs are. The more efficient and productive they are, the better. The atmosphere in the office is also improving. Everyone smiles more and lashes out less when they're happy inside.
HR's job is to test and decide which personal development plan is best for each team or individual. For example, department managers will enjoy developing their leadership skills. Not only privately, but professionally. People will see him or her as a leader and act accordingly.
These programs are organized by the company once or twice a year. Typically, each participant has regular assessments to track their progress. Then outline the next course they might take.
Some employees seemed enthusiastic at first, but their interest waned over time. Studies have shown that the effects of an exercise program last an average of six months. After this time, most people go back to their old habits. This is called the "honeymoon effect". However, a small group of participants will be interested in learning more. They started reading self-help books, taking online quizzes, and doing everything possible to improve. No, it is not unusual for these people to quit after a year or two. They start their own business or do what they think is their life's work. Some of them will even fall in love with coaching and helping others grow. So they sign up for coaching courses and complete certifications and join coaching organizations until one day they can go further and help others discover their purpose on earth.
Employers, beware. If the personal development training you provide is too good, you may lose your best employees.