Why Continuing Education Matters

No matter your industry or role within your company, the world in which we live and work is constantly evolving. Your skills should evolve, as well. Continuing education can help you improve your abilities and stay on top of trends in your industry. It can be daunting to think about adding one more huge task to your already-full plate. Here’s how to make continuing education work for you.

Decide on a program

If you were in school before computers, cellphones or social media existed, there’s a good chance your skills are out of date. A quick certification course can help you touch up your skills. If a certification course won’t cut it or the learning curve is too steep, it may be time to consider pursuing a degree.

Put it in your schedule

Making the most of continuing education will require proper planning. Once you’ve committed to a program, block off an hour or two every day and protect it fiercely. Don’t take calls, answer emails, or schedule meetings during that time. If you assume you can fit your schoolwork in when you “have time,” it will never get done.

Identify your learning style

Most online courses are self-paced, but if you know you won’t be disciplined enough with your time, you can find a program that meets at set times throughout the week. Alternatively, both self-paced and scheduled online programs have evolved to include chats and other ways to stay in touch with your peers. Use these methods to stay on track throughout the course. (As a bonus, these tools are a great way to network with other like-minded individuals in your community.)

Stay curious

Chances are, if you’re intellectually curious about a topic, someone else is, too. Start with a quick Google search.  Join a few online forums. Ask what others in your position are doing to better their skills.

Continuing education can help you advance your career. Even if you’ve “been there and done that” when it comes to college, now is the time to consider adding to your education. Taking the initiative to learn new skills will help you stand out from your peers. Hopefully, the tips here will help you understand how continuing education can fit into your workday.

What skills do you need to brush up on?