On-site training tops the lists of what workers want, according to a recent survey of office workers and HR managers. More than one-third of those surveyed say that in-house, instructor-led workshops are the type of professional training they value most. Tuition reimbursement came in second on the list, with 32 percent of respondents saying they prefer off-site courses and seminars for meeting their development needs.

Meanwhile, self-directed learning seems to have waning appeal for workers, with just 25 percent indicating that they prefer learning from online courses and books or other reference materials. However, employers are keen on these kinds of development solutions (perhaps for budgetary reasons): 69 percent of HR managers surveyed say that they provide these resources to employees. Fortunately, employers are answering workers' calls for in-person training, too. The survey reveals that employers evenly match self-directed learning resources with instructor-led training opportunities.

OfficeTeam, which conducted the survey, suggests mentoring as a way to provide training and professional development to employees. This solution can be budget-friendly, and also can be relevant and practical for employees, who are continually seeking personal instruction that is immediately applicable to their jobs, as well as long-term guidance.