When is the best time to upskill? The answer is, whenever you choose. In the past, life was structured into distinct stages – education, work, and retirement. But today’s career paths are more fluid, and retirement is no longer a fixed endpoint.
This means you have the power to develop your skills at any age. The ability to learn new skills throughout your working life is a key to success in this evolving landscape.
For most of us, upskilling happens while we’re on the job. Taking extended breaks for study is not the norm. This practical approach ensures that your career continues to progress while you enhance your skills.
The number of business and management short courses at Queensland University has doubled since 2022, a clear response to the growing demand from executives and emerging leaders eager to upskill.
So, what are the benefits of upskilling, and what are the best ways to upskill?
The benefits of upskilling
No matter what stage of your career you are at, upskilling can have many benefits. These include:
· Demonstrating your value to your employer: Learning and applying new skills means you are more likely to be seen as valuable to your employer. This can decrease your chances of being laid off in times of economic uncertainty.
· Increasing your chances of getting a job: Employers look favourably on candidates who have a desire to learn and develop their skills.
· Higher earning potential: Specialised skills that are in strong demand can make you eligible for high-paying job opportunities.
· Improving your problem-solving skills: Broadening your skill-set can help to sharpen your problem-solving skills.
· Updating your knowledge: Many industries are constantly evolving. Therefore, staying up to date with the latest trends is essential.
· Boosting your confidence: Learning and mastering new skills can boost your self-esteem and, therefore, your mental health. It can also increase your confidence when seeking a promotion or changing careers.
· Helping you change industries: If you are looking to pursue an entirely new career path, upskilling can help you to learn skills for a new industry.
· Increasing networking opportunities: Engaging in upskilling often involves connecting with other professionals in your field. Therefore, upskilling can open the door to valuable opportunities.
Different ways to upskill
The best way to upskill is to focus on skills that are in demand or skills that are required for roles that you would like to pursue. Before upskilling, consider the skills you most require and the best ways to obtain them. Here are just some of the ways you can upskill:
· Join professional associations: By joining a professional association, you can open yourself up to events that are available exclusively to members.
· Seek internal professional development opportunities: By doing so, you will show your employer you are proactive and keen to learn.
· Advancing education with a degree or certificate: Sometimes, further education is required in order to progress your career.
· Volunteer: Volunteering can open you up to new opportunities and experiences.
· Find a mentor: A mentor can work with you to help you achieve your career goals.
· Attend conferences and networking events: This is a great way of meeting new people in your industry and developing connections.
No matter what stage of your career you are at, upskilling can help you achieve your career goals.
Are you looking for a new career? Public Service Resumes can help you achieve your career goals. We are pleased to offer various services, including career development coaching and interview skills coaching.
Powell, S (3 September 2020) The best time to upskill? All the time Australian Financial Review, accessed 25 September 2024.
Indeed (22 June 2024) Upskilling for Career Development and Progression (2024) Indeed, accessed 25 September 2024.
Monarch Institute (15 January 2024) Boost your career: the benefits of upskilling yourself Monarch Institute, accessed 25 September 2024.
Seek (19 June 2024) Upskilling for the future: What you need to know Seek, accessed 25 September 2024.