Setting Expectations from the Start: The Key to Successful Professional Development in Tech

As a professional development manager charged with ensuring tech learners are job-ready, I cannot stress enough the importance of setting clear expectations from the very beginning. Whether you're working with remote or on-site learners, establishing a strong foundation of understanding and communication is crucial to creating a roadmap for success.

In today's rapidly evolving tech landscape, the demand for skilled talent is higher than ever. According to a survey conducted by Terminal in 2021, 74% of tech companies have increased their remote workforce since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift towards remote work has highlighted the need for setting expectations that cater to both remote and on-site learners.

For remote learners, this means clearly outlining communication protocols, such as regular check-ins, video conferencing etiquette, and response time expectations for emails or messages. It also involves establishing guidelines for remote collaboration, including the use of project management tools, version control systems, and shared documents. By setting these expectations early on, remote learners can feel more connected to their peers and managers, fostering a sense of community and accountability.

On the other hand, setting expectations for on-site learners may focus more on physical presence, such as attendance requirements, punctuality, and participation in in-person activities. Managers should also establish guidelines for using shared resources, such as computer labs or equipment, and outline any safety protocols that need to be followed. By setting these expectations from the start, on-site learners can better navigate their learning environment and feel more engaged in their professional development journey.

Regardless of the learning environment, setting expectations helps learners understand the goals and objectives of their professional development. A study by the Association for Talent Development found that companies with comprehensive training programs have 218% higher income per employee than those without formal training. By clearly outlining what is expected of learners in terms of skill acquisition, project completion, and overall growth, managers can create a structured approach to learning that directly addresses the skills and knowledge needed for success in the tech workforce.

Moreover, setting expectations from the beginning helps to ensure that learners are adequately prepared for the demands of the job market. According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2020, 50% of all employees will need reskilling by 2025. By aligning expectations with industry standards and employer requirements, managers can create a curriculum that bridges the skills gap and increases the likelihood of learners securing employment upon completion of their professional development.

As professional development managers, it is our responsibility to set our learners up for success. By investing time and effort into setting clear expectations from the start, we can create a solid foundation for them to build upon as they work towards becoming job-ready professionals.

So, I ask you this: what steps are you taking to establish clear expectations with your tech learners from day one? Whether they are learning remotely or on-site, providing them with a structured approach to learning that aligns with industry demands is essential. By working together to bridge the skills gap, we can create a brighter future for the tech industry. How will you contribute to this goal?