Interested in another role or department at work, but unsure where to begin? Or maybe you love the path you’re on but need additional skills to reach the next level. Understanding your options for reskilling and upskilling can make all the difference. Finding an employer that offers these benefits is one way to fast-track your career goals. In today’s job market, continuously learning new skills isn’t optional — it’s essential. Here’s a helpful guide you can use to get started.
Reskilling vs. upskilling: What’s the difference?
Reskilling means acquiring new skills and knowledge to transition into a new role or department, while upskilling means enhancing your existing skills and knowledge to advance in your current role. Think about the work you do on a daily basis. Is your career path a fulfilling one? Maybe you like your company, but you’re a marketing professional who’s had your eye on a sales role. Or maybe you’re a software developer wanting to mentor the next generation. Start by evaluating the next steps you want to take in your career to know whether reskilling or upskilling is right for you.
If you’re in the market for a new role, reskilling and upskilling are even more critical, as they can help you:
- stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry
- increase your job satisfaction and engagement at work
- enhance your career prospects and earning potential
Skills training is a top focus for employers in 2026
According to a 2025 survey of 1,250 HR and finance professionals conducted by PSB Insights and commissioned by Paycom, upskilling and reskilling employees is a top focus for 2026. For 39% of HR and 33% of finance professionals, ongoing employee development is the second-highest priority for 2026, second only to tech upgrades. While this isn’t a new priority, HR will continue to focus on fostering workforce development as much as possible. Like in years past, employers still face challenges associated with finding qualified candidates, skills gaps and compliance risks involving training, as well as disengagement and turnover. Upskilling and reskilling are beneficial for both the employee and the employer.
How to find an employer that prioritizes upskilling and reskilling
Many employers offer some level of professional development. Benefits can include on-site training, in-house career pathing or third-party offerings. If your current employer doesn’t offer the type of skills training you seek, here are some questions you can ask potential employers to understand their programs.
- What opportunities are there to cross-train in other departments?
- What do career paths look like here?
- What types of professional development opportunities do you offer?
- What training will I receive, and how often? May I review my role’s training plan?
Make it clear to potential employers that professional development and continuous skills growth are priorities for you. These types of conversations can also reveal how much of a priority skills training is for the employer.
Paycom is a recognized leader in upskilling and reskilling
A career at Paycom helps you stay ahead of the curve. We’re committed to upskilling and reskilling, offering proven training programs that start on Day 1.
“The professional development that you get at Paycom — even in the first three weeks of training — has not only taken me outside of my comfort zone and grown me personally, but it has also sharpened my sales skills and grown me professionally more than I ever expected.”
—Savanna G., executive sales representative
At Paycom, our employees have the opportunity to craft their own career paths, whether they want to upskill in their current role or hone their skills in a different department that best fits their passions. Our commitment to professional development was recognized on several Comparably lists in 2025, including Best Career Growth and Best Leadership Teams. Employees nominate employers for these awards by rating them on Comparably’s popular review website. Paycom’s HR, Marketing and Sales teams also earned Best Teams recognitions from Comparably.
Reskilling and upskilling are essential for career growth and advancement, and top employers like Paycom are prioritizing these initiatives. In a truly supportive and innovative environment, careers thrive.
Ready to discover a truly rewarding career? Apply to Paycom today!
