Blog - WorkBetterNow

Why Professional Development Matters in Remote Teams

Written by Andrew Cohen | Jan 17, 2025 12:19:19 AM

At WorkBetterNow (WBN), we’ve always prioritized our talent because we believe that a thriving team is the cornerstone of success—not just for us but for the clients we serve. When Rob Levin and I launched WBN, we agreed on one principle above all: put talent first. From day one, this commitment has shaped our culture, our processes, and our approach to professional development. 

Remote teams, in particular, face unique challenges. Without the face-to-face interaction and organic learning that occurs in traditional offices, deliberate investment in professional growth becomes even more critical. Over the years, we’ve discovered that fostering an environment of continuous learning is not just a “nice-to-have”; it’s essential for retention, team engagement, and overall success. 

Here’s why professional development matters—and how we’ve made it a cornerstone of our remote team’s success. 

 

Professional Development Fuels Retention and Growth 

In many companies, high turnover is a symptom of deeper cultural issues. People don’t leave jobs; they leave bad managers and environments that fail to nurture their growth. At WBN, we’ve worked hard to create a culture where everyone—whether they’re on our internal team or one of our WBN Certified Professionals™ (CPs)—feels valued, heard, and empowered to grow. 

For example, we’ve implemented quarterly one-on-one meetings with all internal team members. These are open conversations about aspirations, challenges, and opportunities. This allows us to identify areas where we can help team members thrive. 

Many of our WBN staff have experienced firsthand the transformative impact of this approach. Take Silvana, who started as my assistant. Through regular conversations about her interests and a commitment to upskilling, we supported her growth by encouraging her to take specialized courses, attend industry conferences, and develop new skills. This investment allowed her to transition into roles in project management, technology, and even become our EOS Czar. Today, she’s leading significant initiatives, and her growth journey has not only benefited her but also strengthened WBN as a whole. 

 

Learning Builds Confidence and Engagement 

Investing in professional development builds confidence. When team members feel supported in their learning, they’re more engaged and motivated to contribute. 

For example, we recently introduced an AI training webinar for our CPs. The response was overwhelming, with participants eager to apply what they learned to improve productivity for themselves and their clients. Tools like ChatGPT are now being used not only to streamline workflows but also as “thought partners” to enhance creativity and problem-solving. 

Additionally, we’ve seen the power of upskilling in action. Many of our internal team members have moved from entry-level roles to leadership positions, thanks to tailored training programs. Jess, our general manager, started as my assistant and grew into her current role of General Manager by taking on challenges and continuously expanding her skills. 

 

How Professional Development Drives Client Success 

Our clients have shown us that investing in professional development isn’t just beneficial internally—it also enhances client satisfaction. The most successful clients treat their CPs like integral members of their teams, offering opportunities to grow alongside their organizations. 

We’ve heard stories of clients flying CPs to conferences, involving them in strategic planning sessions, and celebrating their contributions publicly. These gestures improve retention and give a sense of belonging and purpose that drives exceptional performance. 

 

Building a Culture of Learning 

Professional development helps curate a team a culture where learning is celebrated. At WBN, we do this through initiatives like: 

  • The W Awards: Weekly team meetings where anyone can nominate a colleague for embodying our core values. This recognition reinforces behaviors that align with our mission. 
  • Leadership Training: For team members moving into management roles, we offer tailored training to ensure they’re equipped to lead effectively. 
  • Collaborative Core Values: Our core values were developed as a team, ensuring everyone feels ownership and alignment with our culture. 
  • WBN Academy: A structured platform offering courses, workshops, and resources to help team members upskill in areas like technology, communication, and leadership, fostering continuous professional growth. 

 

Why It Matters 

In a remote setting, professional development does more than improve skills. It strengthens trust, fosters engagement, and builds a sense of community. It ensures that every team member—whether they’re supporting a client or working on internal initiatives—feels valued and empowered to succeed. 

I often say, “A happy professional means a happy client.” And at WBN, that’s a mantra we live by every day. 

 

Ready to Invest in Your Team? 

If you’re looking for remote professionals who are not only skilled but also supported by a culture of continuous learning, WorkBetterNow is here to help. Our CPs bring expertise, enthusiasm, and a commitment to growth that can transform your business. 

Book a consultation today and discover how our approach to professional development can elevate your team. 

 

 

WorkBetterNow (WBN) provides outstanding remote talent to small and midsize businesses. WBN’s highly skilled and pre-vetted Latin American professionals are hand-matched for each client’s unique needs. Hundreds of growing businesses turn to WBN to unleash their potential through our exceptional talent, ease of hiring, and ongoing support.