Learning for work: short‐term gain or long‐term benefit?

Argues that empowerment facilitated by the development of personal power in staff is an important attribute for job satisfaction and longevity, and is an important element in the creation of effective learning organizations. In contrast to this, the main focus of management educators, trainers, participants and personnel selection in many organizations appears to be the generation and maintenance of professional power, which is equated here with short‐term gain. Suggests that this distinction contributes to the dilemmas experienced by individuals, providers and the organization. Discusses issues associated with provision attempting to offer personal development and steps towards empowerment.