Whether you're just starting out in your career, considering a change in direction, or looking to develop your skills further, there are so many options to explore and opportunities to keep driving your continued career success. At the same time, businesses across Greater Manchester are continually looking to attract and retain talent, and develop the skills needed for future growth amongst their workforces.
To help put career development & aspirations into perspective, we've explored some of the most common myths surrounding career progression and the realities behind them.
Myth #1: "My qualifications define my future."
Reality: Qualifications are only one part of your story.
Exam results, degrees and professional qualifications can help open doors, but they are just a part of your long-term success, potential or value.
Leadership Specialist Jo Lord explains:
"It's only one measure of you. It won't define you. If you've got amazing results, that's great, go and celebrate. If you haven't quite got what you want, just rethink your plans and it'll all work out."
Employers increasingly value qualities such as resilience, adaptability, communication and problem-solving alongside formal qualifications. For businesses, this highlights the importance of recognising potential beyond what's written on a CV.
Myth #2: "If I don't have the right qualifications, I can't move forward."
Reality: Transferable skills are incredibly valuable.
Many people underestimate the skills they've already developed through education, employment or life experience. Skills such as leadership, teamwork, project management, customer service, critical thinking and communication are transferable across a wide range of careers and industries.
As Craig Fletcher, Skills Development Specialist, explains:
"Whilst getting certified and qualified and learning those skills and building that knowledge within yourself is important, the actual result isn't as important."
While qualifications can provide a foundation, it's often the skills and experiences gained along the way that have the greatest impact on long-term career success. For employers, investing in skills development can unlock hidden potential within existing teams and help employees grow into new opportunities.
Myth #3: "Changing direction can be difficult to do."
Reality: Career changes are actually a sign of growth.
Many people worry that changing careers, pursuing a new opportunity or taking an unexpected path means they have somehow failed. In reality, careers evolve as our interests, priorities and ambitions change.
Rather than starting again, a career change is often about building on the experience you've already gained and applying it in a new way. The same applies to businesses. Investing in reskilling, upskilling and internal progression can create opportunities for employees while helping organisations retain valuable knowledge and experience. For both individuals looking to develop their careers and employers seeking to nurture talent, the GM Skills Map is a useful resource, bringing together hundreds of training providers and courses to support ongoing learning and development. Take a look: GM Skills Map.
Myth #4: "There's only one route to success."
Reality: Everyone's path looks different.
Today's workforce has access to a wide range of development opportunities, including Apprenticeships, professional certifications, industry training programmes, short courses and bootcamps, mentoring opportunities, networking and on-the-job training.
For businesses, creating multiple development pathways can help attract diverse talent and support employees at different stages of their careers.
Myth #5: "I need to have everything figured out."
Reality: It's okay to explore your options.
One of the biggest misconceptions about career development is that you need a detailed plan from the outset. However, many people discover their next opportunity through conversations, research, networking and trying new experiences.
Rosalyn Birch, Skills Development Specialist, advises:
"One of the myths is that you've got to make your mind up about what you're going to do. I would actually advise anybody to take some time, look at what options are available and do some information gathering about your possible options."
Supporting People and Businesses to Thrive
Whether you're an individual considering what's next in your career, or a business looking to develop, retain and attract talent, support is available.
At GM Business Growth Hub, we work with individuals and employers across Greater Manchester to help build skills, develop careers and create thriving workplaces. From leadership development and workforce planning to skills support and talent development, we're here to help people and businesses realise their potential.
Visit our website and browse our wide range of fully funded People development related services: Creating a thriving environment for your people | GM BGH