Today more and more individuals take it upon his or herself to get the education needed and the work done in order to succeed in a chosen profession. Career development is a process, or cycle, an individual follows to prepare, sustain, and advance in their chosen career.

The one thing all occupations take into account when assessing their career development needs is what they already know. Students showing great aptitude for artistic skills may wish to continue by finding a career that incorporates one, or more of their talents. For example, a person who doodles, draws, and has experience with graphic programs may wish to go into graphic design and logo making for large companies and small businesses.

While many companies still choose to educate, these days it is up to the majority of individuals to assume responsibility for their own education, progress and career development. The more prepared a person is the better their chance at getting hired and advancement. Long term career development planning stages keeps the individual motivated. It is an ongoing process of assessing present day skills and a desire to expand and use them in advancement.

Career development planning counselors can help individuals break out of repeated behavior or the guilty feeling that comes with changing the career path. Some people feel paralyzed when they wish to take their career into a new direction. Fear of failure, of taking their family down the wrong path and losing everything can force the most talented among us to change their mind.

Part of assessing career development needs is realizing when further education is required for career advancement. While taking classes for a chosen field a good plan is to take classes centering on career development as well. It is not always necessary, but it is a great way to keep up with present markets if the individual and company want to advance in today's moneymaking society.

A person's career development needs can change slowly over time, or drastically when they decide to try a different career. Career development sites and conferences provide interested individuals with information that covers what types of classes and courses they offer, available instructors, and class and environment requirements. Lastly, the decision is still depending on the individual whether to embark on a new career path or to stay put in his place now.