Whether you’re feeling stuck in your current role, looking for a new role, or want to excel in the people profession, there are several things you can do to ensure you achieve your personal goals. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to enter or progress through the people profession but continuing professional development is an important part of CIPD membership.

Get started with these three steps to help you identify your strengths, develop and progress.

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1. Assess yourself against the international standard for the people profession

The CIPD’s Profession Map outlines the knowledge and behaviour standards expected at each level of membership.

Start by self‐assessing where you are now. This will usually highlight areas of development you can focus on. You may want to compare where you currently are with your aspirational level for a longer-term set of development areas. 

Find out more about the Profession Map

2. Create your development journey

Having identified your priority areas of development, you’ll need to work out how you’re going to achieve them. Think about the best way to achieve your goal and consider whether a learning approach might help you get there. 

The CIPD values continuing professional development and we provide a range of different learning approaches, any of which could help you to achieve your goal:

3. Get your experience recognised with CIPD membership

CIPD membership is an internationally recognised accreditation that raises your profile and showcases your professional credibility as a people professional. 

You can gain CIPD membership either by studying for a CIPD qualification or CIPD accredited university programme, or by having your professional experience assessed through our Experience Assessment process.

Explore which membership route is best for you

 

Member benefit

CIPD members have free access to the Learning Hub and Core
Learning Subscription

As part of membership, members have access to a continually updated library of learning programmes on the Learning Hub.

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CIPD Trust

Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.

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The
Profession Map

The international standard for all HR, L&D, OD and all other people professionals

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Take control of your career

Why work in the people profession?

Explore the many rewards of working in the people profession

Career options in the people profession

Explore career areas within the people profession, and the typical activities you may find yourself doing

Career guidance

Information and guidance to help you excel in your role, transition into the profession, and manage a career break

Getting in to the people profession

If you’re looking for a career in HR, L&D or any other aspect of the people profession, there’s a route that’ll suit you

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