Thanks to advancements in technology and the economy, jobs that require little to no skills will keep getting replaced. This is why it’s important to learn new things if you want to become successful or to move up the career ladder in your chosen field.

All of these changes result in complicated roles that are more intellectually demanding than those that came before them. Failing to learn a new skill means you might be permanently replaced. Besides that, companies prefer employees who perform the work of several workers.

How else do new skills further your career?

Due to the pandemic, many businesses were forced to change their work arrangements. They realised that many of their employees weren’t trained or experienced in working from home. This brought about the increasing need to train and teach employees in preparation for future disruptions, but you know what else?

It helps you meet emerging needs

Any competencies you have now may become obsolete within the next few years. By learning new skills, you’re able to cater to the changes within existing industries or new ones. Companies prefer workers who are capable of adapting to their new products and practices.

It gives you more work opportunities

When you know how to maximise new tools required for your job, you open yourself up for more career opportunities. Being in possession of a variety of skills and qualifications make you more appealing for employers compared to others who are familiar with only the basics.

It makes you the go-to resource

Expanding your knowledge makes you someone who’s able to anticipate any issues and resolve them as they occur. Having a mindset that wants to keep learning means you’re practising how to think up new ideas, consider several methods, and explore out-of-the-box solutions.

How do you develop new skills for work?

Whether you’re thinking of shifting roles or are looking for your first job, there are numerous ways to continue your professional development including what we’ve listed below:

1. Find someone to teach you

In other words, look for a superior you trust and respect to serve as a professional mentor. Doing so allows you to schedule informal meetings for discussing questions and getting answers. This has the potential to develop into a long-term working relationship where you may be referred new roles from.

2. Look at preferred job descriptions

This gives you an idea about the transferable skills you already possess and the skills you need to learn. Once you know what job-specific skills you need, you may find out what educational programs or virtual courses to participate in so you may transition into your desired position smoothly.

3. Consider continuing your formal education

If you took up IT in college but currently work in search engine optimisation, you have the option to get a degree in marketing or communication to further your knowledge. These courses are usually taught by people who have experience in the field.

4. Give job shadowing a try

Here is an excellent means of learning the day-to-day tasks of the profession you’re interested in. As a rule of thumb, choose to follow individuals who are excelling in their role or who have been in their position for a long while. Be careful that you don’t end up disturbing their daily routine though.

5. Set an objective for you to meet

To help you stay on track with your career growth, it’s a good idea to set a specific goal. Ensure that your goals are relevant and measurable, such as being able to finish a 300-word article in less than 2 hours. Organise a timeline and establish milestones worth celebrating along the way.

6. Accept feedback for performance

Ask your colleagues, peers, or superiors about areas where you perform best and where you need improvement. Make sure that you receive honest critique and not just something that makes you feel good. It might be painful to hear about your weakness but it’s necessary so you know what to focus on honing.

7. Maximise any company training

Sometimes, employers offer their employees with training sessions where they may explore roles in other departments. This is free of charge and done during operating hours so it would be a waste to overlook them. Ask your supervisor if there are any of these sessions available for you.

8. Sign up for a professional association

When you’re in a group setting, you tend to feel more motivated to learn new skills or hone what you already have. You get to hear about any career opportunities in your chosen field that aren’t readily available in the job market. Facebook groups or LinkedIn is a good place to start your search.

Where do you find virtual job openings?

If you think that you’ve done all you can to expand your knowledge in your present situation, it may be time to search for a role where you may learn even more. There are plenty of openings for virtual assistants and other remote workers, especially if you specialise in certain technical and soft skills.

We at Remote Workmate work with employers from all around the globe—and they are searching for candidates to add to their team. We aim to equip you with the necessary qualifications and skills to turn you into an appealing applicant for them so please peruse our blog and more.