Has your job search run out of steam? Is your career in a rut? Do you worry that you are falling behind rather than moving forward? One of the best ways to infuse fresh energy into one’s work is to learn something new.

It was once common practice for companies to foot the bill for employees to attend conferences and seminars. Tuition reimbursement and employer-sponsored training were standard benefits of employment. Employees were reimbursed for dues to professional organizations and allowed paid time off to attend luncheons and seminars.

It made sense for companies to invest in training and development because workers would typically remain with the same organization for many years. As budgets have tightened and jobs have become more transient, employers are leery of paying for training. It is likely that workers will move on and carry their skills to the employer down the street.

While many companies still invest in employee development, it is definitely not a given. We are ultimately responsible for our own professional development. The obvious reasons for attending a conference or joining a professional organization are to grow our networks, build relationships and stay current in our professions.