How to Keep Your Job Skills Current

[Reyed Mia (Apprentice, DIU)]

How to Keep Your Job Skills Current

Individuals who continually upgrade their skills to keep pace with developments in their field will have the best chance of doing well in their career, both with their current employer and when job searching.

6 Ways to Keep Your Job Skills Current
1. Check out the most in-demand skills for your occupation. The first step in keeping your skills current is to identify the skills which employers value the most in your field. Review job titles for positions in your career field. Also review the top skills required by employers, both general and job-specific.

Search job sites like Indeed or SimplyHired using phrases related to your job to get job titles most appropriate for your current job and any positions that you'd love to work at, if you could. Review job descriptions and make a list of the skills which employers are most often seeking in applicants.

2. Get the Scoop. Speak with human resources staff at your current employer to gain more insight into the most preferred skills for your profession. Analyze the background of standout performers at your employer or stars from your professional associations and identify any skills which have helped them to excel.

3. Make a Plan. Once you have identified your target skills, make a plan to strengthen or gain the most in-demand skills for your occupation. Professional associations offer workshops at annual and regional conferences and throughout the year. Many organizations have online tutorials or workshops. Review agendas and speak with leaders of those organizations to identify opportunities.

4. Attend a Workshop. Technology workshops or online tutorials are often offered by software providers and third party groups. For example, there are free or low-cost online programming classes available.

5. Go to School. In addition, check with local colleges and adult education programs since they will often offer courses or seminars to help employees to upgrade knowledge and skills.

6. Volunteer. Volunteer to take on projects at work or volunteer at organizations where you can develop and apply the skills you're working on. Your ultimate goal should be to be able to document your key skills when you want to land a new job, gain a promotion or justify a pay raise.

Source: https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-keep-your-job-skills-current-2063756