When UNESCO coined the hashtag #learningneverstops in 2020, one would have thought it was just a trend. This hashtag has become more than relevant for the COVID-19 era; it is equally applicable to constantly learning to stay relevant as trends emerge in today’s job market.
In a world where the skills needed to do a job constantly change due to technology, we must first learn how to learn. Then, we must always have a willing and open mindset to learning. Only a person who never stops learning can survive today’s competitive job market.
As a job seeker, I know your question is, “What skills should I be learning to stay relevant in 2024?”
Or maybe your question is, “Why is it important to acquire skills if I already have a job?”
I’ll address question two in this article. A previous article from I-Train Africa addresses the earlier question.
Let’s examine five reasons to upskill, whether you have a job or are looking for one.
1. Stay Relevant:
Upskilling helps you stay relevant by ensuring your skills meet the market’s needs. It allows you to adapt to changing trends, technologies, and demands, keeping you valuable and sought-after. Having a job is good, but keeping the job is also vital. Please make sure you are not the weakest link in your team. Upskilling is one way to stay competitive.
2. Career Advancement:
Upskilling gives you a competitive edge in the job market. Employers value proactive individuals who are committed to continuous learning and professional development. By acquiring new skills and knowledge, you increase your chances of career advancement and may even open doors to higher-paying positions.
3. Boost Confidence:
Learning new skills and expanding your knowledge base boosts your Confidence. It empowers you to take on new challenges and responsibilities, knowing you have the necessary tools to succeed. Increased Confidence can positively impact your performance, relationships, and overall well-being.
4. Embrace Innovation:
Upskilling allows you to embrace Innovation and stay abreast of emerging technologies. By learning about new tools, software, and methodologies, you can leverage them to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and drive Innovation within your organization. This positions you as a valuable asset and a forward-thinking professional.
5. Lifelong Learning:
Upskilling is not a one-time event; it’s a lifelong journey. The world constantly evolves, and new opportunities for growth and learning arise daily. Embracing a mindset of continuous improvement and being open to new experiences will ensure that you remain adaptable, agile, and ready to seize new opportunities throughout your career.
Remember, upskilling can take various forms, including attending workshops, taking online courses, participating in professional development programs, seeking mentorship, or engaging in self-directed learning. The key is to be proactive, curious and committed to your personal and professional life.
If you want the right academy to start, check out Skilled For Work (SFW). It is a finishing school for literate youths and women beginning their careers or transitioning who hope to gain 21st-century, in-demand workplace skills to become globally employable.
This is the right place to start because we offer clarity and guidance before the skills are needed.
Visit https://itrainafrica.com/free-workplace-skills/
As Written By I-Train Africa in 2024