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For many job roles, progression can rely on achieving additional qualifications, going back to school or undergoing some intensive training related to your industry. But there are also transferable skills you can focus on to develop outside traditional career paths, adding to your existing skillset. From learning a language to first-aid and BLS (basic life-saving) skills, these additional training opportunities can boost your confidence and potentially open doors to new roles. Take a look at some suggestions for career-boosting skills that are valuable to many job roles.
Languages
Never underestimate the importance of learning another language. Learning another language changes your brain, and is essentially a workout to keep your brain sharp and focused. Knowing another language can be useful for your job, especially if you have to travel or have clients who speak another language. For you personally, it allows you to communicate with more people, and helps enhance your travel experiences.
Basic Life Support (BLS)
You never know when you might need Basic Life Support (BLS) skills. BLS training covers essential, life-saving techniques, including CPR, using an automated external defibrillator (AED), and how to respond to situations such as choking or cardiac arrest. Gaining BLS Certification can help prepare you for several situations you could encounter at work or outside of it, helping to save someone’s life. These are skills that every person should have, and should be refreshed regularly to ensure you feel confident putting them into practice.
Project management
While many businesses employ project managers, there’s no harm in learning some project management skills for yourself. Understanding the basic principles of project management they can help you become a smarter, more efficient worker while also helping to structure your own work to get the job done. Project management skills are vital in a wide range of industries, so undertaking some basic courses could help you become a more desirable candidate for a future role.
Public speaking
Many people struggle to speak in public. But as with most skills, public speaking can be learned. Some essential tips for improving your public speaking skills include practicing, watching yourself back, and trying to avoid reading off the page. In time, your confidence in this area will improve, helping you speak with ease in both small and larger groups.
Digital literacy
If you want to step up your career, digital literacy is vital. With more and more roles relying on technology, it’s important that you keep up to date with the latest trends, software and techniques and learn how you can use them within your job. Take advantage of any training provided by your workplace to enhance your digital skills, or seek out opportunities to learn and develop by yourself.
Seeking out training and development opportunities can bring several benefits to your career. Not only can they help you develop knowledge and experience, but they can also help you make continuous improvements to the way you do your job. While the skills listed above may seem more general, they can prove to be incredibly valuable in the workplace, helping you bring a little something extra to the table. Explore different kinds of learning opportunities that will not only help you progress in your career but also in your life outside of work.
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