What Our Network Told Us About Career Growth

We recently asked our network a simple question: How do you prefer to grow professionally? The response was clear. 75% of professionals value real-world experience above everything else. There’s something powerful about learning in motion, solving problems in real time, and gaining confidence through doing.

That said, growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Many still prioritize mentorship, recognizing the impact of learning directly from someone who has already navigated the path. Others lean into independent learning, taking ownership of their development outside of formal structures. Interestingly, certifications ranked far lower than hands-on experience and relationship-based learning.

What this tells us is important. Today’s workforce isn’t just chasing titles or credentials. They want exposure. Responsibility. Coaching. Opportunity. They want to build skills that translate directly into performance. For employers, the takeaway is simple: If you want to attract and retain strong talent, create environments where people can learn by doing. Pair them with leaders who invest in their growth. Provide autonomy alongside accountability. Professional development isn’t one-size-fits-all. But the common thread is clear. Growth thrives where opportunity meets experience.

The companies that understand this will stand out. When growth is built into the role itself, not treated as an afterthought, performance follows. The best talent is not looking for comfort. They are looking for challenge, trust, and the chance to get better every day. Create that environment, and you will not just hire strong people. You will keep them.