Training is a crucial springboard for career success, and it's vital to be proactive about it. Are you happy for your career to stand still for several years, while you wait for your firm's training budgets to be re-instated after the "recession"? Do you usually leave your career decisions to other people? No, of course not. So, this issue of ON! is for you. Solutions abound, if you know where to look for them and how to approach them.

Firstly, you need to have a clear idea of where you're going and how to get there. In our lead feature, skills expert Helen Vandevelde explains how to produce your personal training plan. A truly professional office professional will always have a personal development strategy underway. Once you know where you're heading, just look at what's on offer to help you get there!

Secondly, if you want managers to take you seriously, prepare a solid, business-like case for your learning - show them how the business will benefit! Administration Manager and PA, Ann Nuckley, persuaded her employers to fund a degree course for her, and she shares her tips for success with you here.

Thirdly, look for alternative sources of training. Workplace journalist Ian Boughton reveals some thought-provoking ways to keep your skills up, without major expense. Not all avenues of learning need cost mega-bucks, he says - just be canny!

Fourthly, accept that if you're serious about your career, you may have to fund part, or all, of your training yourself. It's surprising how your manager will warm to your training request, if you offer to pay part of it yourself!

And lastly, digest the top advice and experience in this issue of ON! from DeskDemon. Business journalist Roisin Woolnough has been out and about sourcing courses on your behalf - and she has discovered a wealth of excellent options. While Sara Goodwins, workplace and careers journalist, has been talking to five PAs who have each chosen different types of learning - find out how they all got on. Just to help you maximise your training when you do get it, we asked learning guru Bill Lucas to share a few tips on the learning mind - he reveals how you can enhance your ability to absorb information.

So, all in all, there's no excuse for feeling you haven't learnt any new skill for years - think laterally, be business-like, and be bold! And feel free to shout at me regarding my views (newsletter@deskdemon.com). I look forward to hearing your thoughts!

All the best - and happy learning!

Penny