Do you often wish you could afford to further your studies? Life comes with huge financial responsibilities, and we know that, like many of our students, you might struggle to pay for your own studies. However, there are other options.

Did you know that you can ask your employer to help you finance your studies?

The first and most important thing to do if you want help from your employer is to do your research.

You have to convince your employer of the benefits that the company will receive if you are given the opportunity to study further. Also, being able to explain the return on investment for the employer will help you to sound more convincing. Some of the benefits that you could point out include increased future productivity, as well as the ability to take on new projects and responsibilities.

Read our previous post, The 8 Secrets of Effective Negotiation, to help you plan your conversation with your employer.

Other steps you need to take:

  • Think about possible questions/concerns that your employer or HR manager might have.

By preparing responses to these questions/concerns, and by focusing your responses on the benefits to the employer, you will be more likely to get the response that you are looking for.

If, for example, you think that your employer might be worried about the time that you will need to be away from work, you can reassure your employer that you will only need time off to write exams, and that you will study and complete your assignments in your own time at home.

  • Give enough detail to back up your points.

Employers like to ensure that their employees have all the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their jobs successfully. If you truly feel that studying further (in a field that is related to your job) will make you a better employee, then you will be more likely to have the confidence you need to convince your employer.

Make sure you are able to give detailed examples of how your employer will benefit by paying for you to study further.

Remember that non-verbal communication is highly effective. When you are presenting your points to your employer, make sure you are aware of your facial expressions, the tone and pitch of your voice, your body language, and your levels of eye contact.

  • Lastly, don’t give up.

If your manager feels that it is not a good idea for the company fund your studies, it is not the end of the world, and you shouldn’t feel despondent — you can either ask again when another opportunity arises, or you can consider other financing options.

If you are looking for an affordable way to further your studies, simply click on the button below:

View the financing options at Oxbridge Academy