The dictionary says that Spring (when used as a verb) means to rise, leap, move, or act suddenly and swiftly, as by a sudden dart or thrust forward or outward, or being suddenly released from a coiled or constrained position: to spring into the air; a tiger about to spring. As an adjective it says spring is a season pertaining to, characteristic of, or suitable for the season of spring: spring flowers. We also consider spring a season. It’s a season of growth and renewal. Just as bulb or root grows from a seed or germ, they eventually grow into plants, flowers, or trees.
Have you recently been laid off or do you sense a layoff coming? Are you a passive job seeker frustrated with the slow pace of your search? If you’ve been out of work for a while and finding it tough getting back into the work force or just beginning your search, spring is a great time to sharpen or update our professional skills. How long has it been since you’ve finished school, taken a course, or attended a training class? What books have you read? What seminars or online classes have you attended? Have you considered attending a class at a local Community College? College graduates earn on average more money than workers who only have a high school diploma and graduates with a Master’s degree earn many more times than high school graduates. Candidates that have additional coursework and professional certifications more desirable than those that just say they are interested in learning and advanced skills training.
Earning more money is reason enough to sharpen your skills but there are many other benefits to continuing your education. It is well worth the investment. Approach your education as a sound business investment. Make that investment and you will soon see a return throughout your career. After all, it’s important to ensure that your knowledge and skills are up-to-date with the changes affecting your industry so employers will continue to view you as a core asset. By continuing your education, you can acquire new skills and specializations that will allow you to become a more versatile employee and increase your long-term value.
Demonstrate to your boss that you are committed to your career by asking for additional training, webinars, or seminars that you can attend. By investing time and money in continuing your education, you will send a powerful message to employers that you are serious about improving your education and applying new skills to your job. Employers are more likely to hire and retain professionals who show the desire and commitment for lifelong learning, and many even provide tuition reimbursement as added encouragement.
If you are considering switching careers, one of the best ways to learn more about a potential field is through a degree program or by taking related courses. By continuing your education, it can help you better understand what the new career would entail and how to apply your current skill set in the new position. It is best to “test the waters” before jumping into a new career to make sure you are making the right decision. You can even pursue an online program if you’re working full-time and you need flexibility.
So, take time out this spring to sharpen your skills. The benefits gained by continuing education will help you to improve your skill sets, achieve career advancements and add enrichment to your life.
In For CandidatesTags skills, spring skills education training careers