When is the last time you took a class or learned a new skill? Can’t remember?
Well, it’s time. Time to get your butt in gear and upgrade your skillset! With everything constantly changing and evolving it’s imperative that you stay up to date or you may become obsolete. Not only will you increase your marketability, but you’ll also increase your self-confidence, and even have better career opportunities. Here are a few things you can take advantage of to get those skills where they need to be!
1) Audiobooks/Podcasts
Good news! You don’t have to sit in a classroom or use precious relaxing (Netflix) time to run through a course or watch some videos. Think about what you do during your commute. If you take public transit, are you on your phone swiping through Facebook or Instagram? Do you crush it on Candy Crush? What about in your car? Do you use your time rockin air guitar or getting smarter? Use your commute time to listen to the new audiobook on that subject you’ve been wanting to brush up on or that podcast episode that talks about something your coworker mentioned the other day.
Using your commuting downtime keeps you from creeping into your regular downtime.
2) Online Courses
If you do have some downtime or simply prefer a more hands-on learning experience, you can always look into taking a course. You can use websites like SkillShare or udemy.com where you typically pay a subscription fee or pay per class. There are thousands of classes on hundreds of topics so you can find info on whatever you’re looking for.
Another option is to buy a course from a coach or an expert in a certain field. They range from a general overview of a subject to really in-depth dives into a specific topic. These are typically paid for once (or in payments) and you get lifetime access. Some even give you access to a Facebook group or something similar where you can get feedback or 1:1 coaching/mentoring.
Check out a course if you’re wanting a more tangible type of learning!
3 ) LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning (previously Lynda.com) is a service that allows you to explore a wide range of business skills from project management and negotiation to leadership skills and online marketing strategy. They also have professional development tutorials where you can learn SEO, spreadsheets, word processing, and more.
Members have access to the whole Lynda.com video library of engaging, top-quality courses taught by recognized industry experts. They also have tutorials in five languages! Bonus: those of you who have upgraded to the LinkedIn Pro account have full access to LinkedIn Learning! You can upgrade now for a FREE 30 day trial if you have a particular skill you’re trying to uplevel to nail an interview or help in your career pivot. Take advantage of your free trial to see the other amazing benefits of LinkedIn Professional.
Pro Tip: Check with your local library. Some libraries will give you FREE access to LinkedIn Learning when you sign up for a library card! Your Library is a bonus wealth of information where you can access audio books, dvds, and yes, even old school books to further your learning.
4) Blogs
Online courses aren’t always up to date depending on what industry you’re in. Sometimes industries move so quickly, education is outdated before the classes get out there.
So what do you do? Read blogs!
Checking out industry blogs can be a great way to stay on top of fast-moving subjects and niches where classes are outdated before you can Google them.
Pro Tip: Pinterest is actually a great way to find educational blogs in industries and fields you may be interested in.
5) Conferences
Into more of an in-person learning experience?
Conferences are a great place to increase your networking connections AND take part in tons of educational workshops.
You can do a quick Google search of conferences that are nearby (they are all over the place) and get those skills honed!
Pro Tip: Ask if your company has a budget for further learning. If so, and if the conference is related to what you do in your job, they may reimburse you or even send you!
Keeping your skills up to date is important to keep yourself relevant (and making more money). They say knowledge is power and the more knowledge you have will give you an edge over your competition and keep your brain sharp when it comes to learning more information in new positions.
For more tips and tricks, connect with me on LinkedIn where we’re sharing educational articles that relate to the job market and standing out while finding your next dream job.