Continuous progression

Stuart Gilby, Operational Training Manager at Develop Training explains the value of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and how its benefits uniquely relate to facilities management

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is often underestimated in its value to both recipients and employers. Though a worthwhile pursuit in any field, it is in constantly developing sectors such as facilities management where this upskilling practice provides immediate, and consistent value.

CPD can be broadly defined as the ongoing learning activities professionals engage in to further develop their skills and competency. This can include a range of activities, from independent learning to studying advanced certifications, however the onus of the process is always on an individual perpetually developing their abilities.

WHY DOES CPD MATTER FOR FACILITIES MANAGEMENT?

The framework of many industries is subject to the constant changes of regulation, and though for some this can mean minor alterations to pre-existing systems, in fields such as facilities management, changing regulation can mean the creation of entirely new systems. For this reason alone, it is immensely valuable for delegates to demonstrate their relevant aptitude in a changing field through CPD.

This demonstration of competency can be of equal value to both employers and delegates alike. For employers, CPD can be an effective method of future-proofing a business by upskilling its workforce. For example, placing employees on relevant courses in safety, new technology, management and hygiene can enable workplaces to stay ahead of tightening regulations and develop good practices in line with shifting industry expectations.

For delegates, practising CPD will not only enable them to keep up with industry expectations, but also enable them to remain competitive in a landscape where an increasing number of individuals are gaining surplus professional qualifications.

It’s for this reason in particular that deciding what type of CPD to pursue should be high priority – while all CPD is of benefit, within certain industries attaining access to the right training tools is essential.

WHAT DOES THE RIGHT TYPE OF CPD LOOK LIKE?

A reliable place to start looking for a productive method of CPD is in the pursuit of professional accreditation, for facilities management this likely means identifying courses, or training programmes accredited by boards such as Water UK, EU Skills, City and Guild, the CITB or any other relevant to the individual’s area.

Within that, selecting a course which not only develops new skills but potentially compounds upon old ones is an excellent method for finding effective forms of CPD. Though independent learning and keeping track of one’s progression is valuable in itself, choosing an accredited, trusted course provider is the most reliable way to demonstrate CPD.

All of our courses are not only accredited by boards such as these, but each is designed with CPD specifically in mind. Through our Continuous Learning Loop, which is the foundation of our course structures, we are able to offer Post-Course Assessments to give learners the chance to further reinforce and develop the certifications they receive from our training programmes. Keeping up to date with the changing landscape of facilities management will always be a task for both employers and workers alike, which is why seeking out the right type of CPD is so important and something we are passionate about.

THE TRUE BENEFITS OF CPD

Practising CPD will amongst many things, ensure upkeep with the highest safety standards, the benefits of which are immediately obvious. However, it’s important to also consider that unsafe practices are being noticed and subsequently punished in the industry now more than ever. In particular, constantly shifting understandings of bacteria, waste and other biohazards can quickly compound to a shortfall in modern safety understanding, leading to potential fines and sanctions.

Though safety will always be the priority of any workplace, and is largely where newfound regulation stems from, the reality is that in a rapidly changing landscape, regulation is now also guided by newfound environmental considerations, mental health and wellbeing practices as much as efficiency, safety and other traditional motivations.

Developing an awareness of these newer considerations, such as emissions, emotional intelligence, self-reflection and stress has become integral to an individual’s career progression. Pursuing CPD can help navigate the leading thoughts amongst these areas, whilst also compounding and reinforcing pre-existing skills, allowing individuals to reach the forefront of their fields.

CPD can be seen as the route to achieving one’s optimal career potential. Whatever the motivations that may be behind its implementation, it is an empirically valuable practice for any worker – and particularly those within the vast world of facilities management. Many businesses and individuals alike already practice CPD without being fully aware of it, which is exactly what makes highlighting the practice essential. Its imperative is already interwoven into the mindset of every motivated worker, from those on the ground to the CEO behind them – it’s simply yet to be fully realised.