Training is Not a Weakness

I am a mid-level manager at a media company who has been identified as a rising star on the management fast track. Although those who I report to see great potential in me, I know I could benefit from further training and development. My dilemma is how can I request for training without it being viewed or perceived as a weakness?

Trying to improve oneself is not a sign of weakness. If your bosses see great potential in you, they should encourage you to seek additional training and development. You should discuss your career aspirations with your manager and request training opportunities such as participating in NAMME's Leadership Development Institute.

This dilemma certainly applies to executives, too. While they have taken the premier leadership or executive sessions such as the Media Management Center's Advanced Executive Program and/or National Association of Broadcaster's Broadcast Leadership Training, they still need training to stay up-to-date on the changing technology and demographic trends that impact the business.

---Albert E. Fitzpatrick

Albert E. Fitzpatrick is a retired Knight Ridder executive and the founding chair of NAMME. He continues to mentor the next generation of media leaders.