The need to learn new and develop existing skills and competencies as part of your career journey might sound obvious, but is key to staying competitive on the job market. While you might learn on-the-job as you go along, the intention to learn and develop is of outmost importance.
Intentional learning isn’t optional—it’s foundational to building career resilience and staying competitive. McKinsey frames learning as a core professional skill, grounded not in formal training alone, but in how we approach everyday tasks and interactions.
Two essential mindsets set intentional learners apart:
A growth mindset, which views abilities as improvable through effort and practice
A curiosity mindset, which drives you to explore, question, and see new experiences as fuel for development
McKinsey recommends five practical habits to build this skill:
Set clear and specific learning goals
Remove distractions to prioritize learning
Seek actionable feedback actively
Engage in deliberate practice, targeting just-beyond-your-current-level skills
Reflect regularly before, during, and after tasks to deepen insight
As a job seeker, you can use this to gain an edge: treat every resume draft, interview prep session, networking event, or test assignment as a learning opportunity. Intentionally practice interview answers, record and review your delivery, ask peers for feedback, and reflect on what worked or didn’t.
By cultivating the mindsets and habits of an intentional learner, you accelerate growth, distinguish yourself from competitors, and demonstrate adaptability—a top quality employers crave.
Read the full article here: The most fundamental skill: Intentional learning and the career advantage