As a government employee you, and others, may feel you get a lot of perks from your job. Whether or not those perks can further your career is something that only you know and remains to be seen. But there is one perk that can certainly help you do your job more efficiently, as well possibly add a little something to the resume for later on. This is the government sponsored training options that you have available to you.
The Options
The government wants their employees to do their jobs to the best of their ability. As such, they are fully supportive of government employees getting the training and education they need in order to become more efficient and find new ways to do their work that benefit the agency. When the agency benefits from employee work performance, so too does the public. Everyone wins when those working for the government gain skills. Not only will it help them improve their work performance, but it can also help save money, as it may reduce turnover rates.
In 1958, the first idea of this training was put into law, deemed The Government Employees Training Act (GETA). Over the years there have been a few changes here and there, as well as an amendment added in 1994. What has remained the same is that the act allows for government employees to gain this necessary training in order to better their skills, which will ultimately be beneficial to the public sector.
Within the government there are plenty of training options available with topics ranging from diversity to health-related topics and computer skills. But beyond that, government employees are eligible to engage in sponsored training as well. The range of options on what type of training you can qualify for will vary depending on the government position you are in at the time.
Some of the government sponsored training options available include those courses covering information technology, computers, and even academic degrees. The key here is that the government sponsored training needs to be something that is related to your position and will help you make improvements in your current area. If you can demonstrate that the training you would like is something that will strengthen your abilities in your current position, or can be used to further skills in the position, then there is a good chance you will qualify for the sponsored training.
Getting it Approved
Just finding training that you feel will benefit you in your current position isn’t enough. You will need to work through the proper channels in order to get it approved before you sign up. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you begin your search for government sponsored training:
- Consider options. Find out what training options are available within your agency. Some may be what you need to gain the skills that you are looking for. If they don’t offer any that suit your need, then consider other options. This is a great chance to gain some valuable skills that you can use in your current position, as well as use later on in other positions. Determine which training will provide you with the most value.
- Discuss with supervisor. Once you have narrowed down what training it is that you would like to take, discuss it with your immediate supervisor. If you do not have one, discuss the issue with your human resources representative. They should be able to help point you in the right direction as to what type of training would be approved for your position, as well as where you can take it.
- Know why. When you speak with those in charge, be sure you know why you want to take the training. Be prepared to explain how it will benefit you in your current position. They will need to see the potential value in it if they are going to sponsor it. You may even want to type up a memo that explains what the training is and how you feel it will benefit you in your current position.
- Follow rules. There are always going to be some rules involved, especially when it comes to government positions. Follow the rules when it comes to submitting the paperwork to get the training sponsored by the government. The human resources office should be able to provide these to you. They will likely involve filling out some forms and maintaining a record of any financial transactions. You may also need to turn in proof that you have finished the course, certificate program, or degree.
- Put it to use. Once you have completed your training put it to use in your current position, so your supervisor can see that it was worthwhile. If you don’t, then they may be reluctant to send you for training the next time. When people see that your training has paid off, they will be interested in sending you, and others, for more.
Gaining Skills
Just about everyone can find some additional or advanced training that they can benefit from in their position. Such classes as Microsoft Office, Oracle databases, cloud computing, website creation, project management, and those in communications make ideal choices. Whether you are choosing training that covers basic education, skills development, career enhancement, or an academic degree, you will find there are both online and in-person training options available.
Anytime one can gain valuable skills it is a good idea. But when you can get that training sponsored by the government it makes it even that much sweeter. When you do your job more efficiently you will not only look better to your supervisor, but you will enjoy your job more. The training options are available, it’s just a matter of when you are ready to get involved. Make it a goal to take at least one training course to see how it goes. You can always do others later, but you will have likely gained some valuable skills that you can put to work immediately!