Many years ago, a person with a high school certificate was able to apply for any number of jobs. Later, when expectation grew, the minimum requirement was a diploma. Today, many students with degrees are unemployed. The standard and expectation of education has grown to a level where you cannot afford not to have an education.
Continuing education is important not only if you want to advance in your career but also if you want to keep up with the changes that are sure to affect your current position. For instance, as newer versions of computer applications software are introduced to the market, the very skills needed to perform your job on a daily basis will change. Technological changes are affecting all industries faster today than ever before and smart professionals know that it is in their best interest to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to learning how to utilise new technology.
The industry in which you work also influences the type of education that might be right for you. Today many industries, such as healthcare and banking, are feeling the effects of increased competition. Therefore, customer service and sales training could be beneficial to both your ability to keep up with industry changes as well as to become eligible for promotions.
It’s somewhat of a cliché, but information really does lead to power and success. Never pass up chances to learn and grow more as a person and as a worker; go beyond passive acceptance of training opportunities to find new ones that will help enhance or further your career.
Take the time to contemplate what training or education will help you achieve your career goals. Look for potential career-enhancing opportunities within your company, your professional association, your local universities and colleges, as well as within online distance learning programmes, and then find a way to use these opportunities to achieve your goals.
Our Employee Wellbeing Programme (EAP) is available 24 hours a day if you want to know more about further education to advance your career.