Learning is ongoing
Learning is ongoing
December 10, 2012
My roommate, Richard, and I graduated from university this past year. While I quietly vowed to take a long break from academia, Richard realized that in order to achieve his goals, he should continue finding ways to fine-tune his skills and make himself more marketable. He enrolled in a part-time graphic design course at a local college hoping that it will help him land a job in the publishing industry.
When I asked Richard why he wasn’t just going to take a break for a while, he told me: “The workforce is competitive and finding a job these days is not easy. Just like being on a sports team, having sharper skills can give you an edge on the competition. The best way to stay on top of the game is to make yourself more marketable. Having a wide variety of skills will make you eligible for a wider variety of jobs – you never know where those jobs could lead!”
You don’t always need to return to the classroom to learn these valuable skills. There are plenty of opportunities right in front of you!
- If you’re still in school, consider selecting an elective that challenges your comfort zone.
- You can learn practical new skills volunteering, while helping out your favourite charity or non-profit!
- If you’re working, talk to your boss or coworkers about the possibility of job shadowing another position.
- Get involved with community organizations, sports teams or social committees.
Personally, I gained many new skills while sitting on a Board of Directors for a couple years. I improved my project, team and time management skills, budgeting, and organizational leadership. Take a look at this skills inventory checklist to see what skills you have, what skills you think you want, and if they match your career goals