10 Tips to Request Additional Training from An Employer

by Brenda Barron Stokes on Dec 09, 2022

If you’re looking to get ahead in your career, one of the best things you can do is request additional training from your employer. Not only will this make you a more valuable employee, but it also shows that you’re willing to go above and beyond for the company. Typically, the most common way to request such training is to write a training request letter. So today, we’ll discuss what this letter is, what it typically entails, and offer some tips and insights into what you can do to more successfully request additional training from your current place of employment.

In this post:

• What is a Training Request Letter?
• What Should a Training Request Letter Contain?
• 10 Tips for Writing a Successful Training Request Letter

What is a Training Request Letter?

A training request letter is a formal request for additional training. It should be written and submitted to your employer to explain why you need additional training and how it will benefit you, your team, and the company.

What Should a Training Request Letter Contain?

A training request letter should include your name, position in the company, and what type of training you’re asking for. It should also include specific details on why you feel additional training is necessary. This could include any data or research you’ve come across, or stories from colleagues who have had success with the same training.

Finally, it should explain how you plan to apply this training in your job. If the employer sees a clear and measurable benefit from offering you additional training, they’re much more likely to approve your request.

10 Tips for Writing a Successful Training Request Letter

To get the most out of writing this letter — and to increase the chances of a successful outcome — we’ve put together several tips to guide you along your way.

1. Be Specific

When writing your request, be specific about what kind of training you’re looking to receive. This can include anything from a short course on a new software program to additional certifications or degrees that are relevant to your job.

2. Explain the Benefits

Your letter should explain why additional training would be beneficial for you, your team, and the company as a whole. If you can show how this will benefit all parties involved, you’re much more likely to get approval.

3. Be Professional

This should go without saying, but make sure your letter is professional in tone and language. This will show that you take your job seriously, and that you are committed to furthering your professional development.

4. Present the Value of This Investment

You should also explain how this training could save the company money in the long run. For example, if you’re looking to gain additional certifications that will help streamline processes or improve efficiency, be sure to note these potential cost-saving benefits.

5. Identify Potential Resources or Courses You’d Like to Pursue

If you’ve already identified specific courses or training that you’d like to pursue, include them in the letter. This will show your employer that you’re serious and have done some research into what kind of additional training would be most beneficial. It’s a good idea to present multiple options as well, not just in course options but in the method of instruction.

Consider listing out traditional educational training options alongside workshops and webinars.

6. Explain Why the Training Will be Beneficial to You and Your Coworkers

Make sure to include why this training will help you in your role and how it will benefit those around you. Explain how the knowledge and skills gained from additional training could be used to grow the company or improve efficiency within teams.

7. Demonstrate a Desire for Self-Improvement

Emphasizing your desire for self-improvement is important as well. Show that you’re looking to develop new skills and gain a more in-depth understanding of the company and its work processes. This will demonstrate a dedication to improving your job performance and an ambition to better yourself as an employee.

8. Show Your Commitment & Follow Through

Stress your commitment to the training as well as to the company itself. This can be done by mentioning a timeline or any other plan that you have in place for completing the coursework and applying what you’ve learned back into your job. You should also express a willingness to share what you learn with your team or other departments and your long-term goals for putting this training to use within the company.

Employers are much more likely to approve a training request if they see that you’re dedicated to the company and have done your research on why the additional training would be beneficial.

9. Offer Your Gratitude

Be sure to thank the employer for their consideration in advance. This will show that you’re appreciative of their time and effort, as well as show your enthusiasm for the opportunity. 

10. Follow Up

If your request for additional training is approved, make sure to follow up with the employer and send a thank you note. This will demonstrate your dedication to the company and your commitment to putting the training you’ve received into practice.

It’s also a good idea to send an additional letter after you complete the coursework, outlining how it has benefited you and your job performance so far. That way, your employer can see that their investment has paid off.

Sample Training Request Letter

If you’re stumped as to how to word your letter, consider using the following sample letter as a guide:

Dear _______,

I am writing to request the opportunity to pursue additional training that will benefit both myself and our company. I am confident that the training I wish to pursue will not only help me contribute more effectively to our team, but also add value to our organization.

I have researched several potential courses and training programs, including (list out the ones you’re interested in). Having these additional skills will allow me to (list the ways in which you believe these skills will be beneficial).

I am confident that this training will not only benefit myself, but also our team and the company as a whole. I am willing to commit my time and resources to completing this training and applying what I learn to my current role and any future endeavors.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon. 

Sincerely,

(Your Name)

Requesting Additional Training Can Change Your Career Trajectory

Following these tips should help you create a convincing case for why your employer should invest in additional training and, hopefully, get your request approved. 

Requesting additional training is an excellent way to stay ahead of the competition and grow your skills in a cost-effective and structured way. It can even be the start of a successful and rewarding career trajectory, so don’t hesitate to put yourself out there and make your request.

Good luck!