Let’s be real—growing in your career doesn’t always mean endless meetings or dry training sessions. There are creative and practical ways to learn and improve, all while staying excited about your work. Here’s a look at five ways I’ve personally found to boost my skills during my early and mid-career years. These methods also keep my career journey fun and forward-thinking.
1. Shadowing: Walking in Someone Else’s Shoes (Literally!
I once spent a day shadowing a senior account manager. Watching how they navigated client relationships gave me insights. Observing how they handled negotiations and led meetings taught me things I never would’ve picked up from my desk. It wasn’t just about learning technical skills. It was about seeing a new side of the business. It was also about understanding how different roles contribute to the big picture.
How to start: Speak with your manager about job shadowing as part of your personal development plan. Explain how it can improve your understanding of company operations and how it benefits your own performance.
2. Short-Term Project Swaps: Small Steps Toward Bigger Growth
While a long-term job rotation might seem out of reach (let’s face it, most organizations wouldn’t approve months of shifting roles!), short-term project swaps are a more realistic alternative. You don’t need to dive into a full-on new role. Instead, swap responsibilities with a peer for a few weeks or collaborate on a cross-functional project. This lets you explore new areas of the business without requiring heavy lifting in terms of management approval.
How to initiate: Start by identifying areas you’re curious about. Propose a short-term swap with a colleague from another team or suggest working on a joint project. Be clear with your manager about the skills you’ll gain and how it’ll benefit your current role.
3. Online Learning: Gaining Skills on Your Own Time
After realizing that I needed a crash course in data analytics, I signed up for an online course. I’d fit lessons in between late-night Netflix binges and weekend brunches. It wasn’t just convenient—it gave me skills that were directly applicable to my work, at my own pace. Platforms like Coursera or Udemy are gold mines for picking up hard skills. Whether it’s improving your data analysis, mastering design tools, or brushing up on soft skills like communication, these platforms have it all. These platforms allow for flexible learning, so you can level up while still meeting your day-to-day responsibilities.
How to make it happen: Propose online learning as a self-initiative or part of your personal development plan at work. Many companies offer learning stipends or professional development budgets—don’t be afraid to ask!
4. Join Industry-Specific Groups: More than Networking
Joining professional organizations seemed daunting at first, but it’s not just about awkward networking events. I found that groups like local marketing associations, meet-up groups, or online communities provide real value. They do this through workshops, conferences, and expert-led events. It’s an easy way to stay sharp. You can stay updated on the latest industry trends without the stuffiness of traditional learning environments.
5. Stretch Assignments: A Simple Path to Challenging Yourself
Instead of waiting for growth to happen, I volunteered for a stretch assignment—leading a project I wasn’t entirely comfortable with. It was nerve-wracking, but that’s where the growth happened. Stretch assignments push you beyond your usual limits, helping you develop new skills and boosting your confidence. It’s a learning-on-the-job experience, but with real stakes.
How to approach management: Be proactive and find areas where your team could use extra help or leadership. Approach your boss with a solution. “I’ve noticed we’re struggling with X. I’d love to take the lead on it to improve my skills in Y.” Framing it as beneficial to both you and the company can increase your chances of approval.
None of these are your typical career development suggestions, but they’ve worked for me—and they can work for you too. Whether you’re shadowing a colleague or volunteering for stretch projects, these strategies are practical, flexible, and effective. The key is being proactive. Show your manager how each method not only helps you grow but also benefits the company.
Ready to try something new? If you have other ideas please share in the comments for others to learn.
Faith and rise 
Leave a comment