The Career Conversation – It’s Not Always What We Expect

This webinar, hosted by The Motivation Agency, explores the importance of career development in driving employee engagement, retention and performance, and why learning and growth conversations matter even when traditional progression opportunities are limited. Research shows that organisations which nurture talent from within benefit from greater motivation, agility and sustained performance. While individuals ultimately own responsibility for their careers, employers who take time to understand aspirations and support development where possible see a strong positive impact on engagement and retention.

The session will provide practical guidance for managers on how to approach career conversations with confidence and purpose. It will address common concerns such as “what if they leave?”, challenge the idea that career development only means moving upwards, and introduce tools such as career mapping that can benefit both individuals and organisations. It will also explore when career conversations are most valuable, and when they may not be necessary, helping managers use their time and effort effectively. Designed for employers, line managers and team leaders, this webinar offers realistic, actionable insights to strengthen career conversations and support sustainable engagement and retention.

Who is this event for?

Employers, Line Managers and aspiring Line Managers.

What will members gain from it?

At the end of this session, members will be able to:

• Explain the impact of learning and career development on employee engagement, retention and performance, and why nurturing internal talent supports long‑term organisational success.
• Recognise the shared responsibility for career development between individuals and employers, including realistic boundaries of what organisations can and cannot provide.
• Demonstrate greater confidence in holding career development conversations, even where there are limited or no immediate progression opportunities.
• Apply practical approaches to career discussions that help employees clarify aspirations and feel supported, leading to improved engagement and retention.

CPD credit value

• 1 CPD credit awarded