7 ways to add more professional skills to your CV

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s best to stay informed and educated. New information and technologies continue to emerge, driving changes in different industries. This leaves employees with no other choice but to keep up. In fact, learned skills expire after about five years, according to a 2017 study by professional services firm, Deloitte. So, if you have not boosted your knowledge or studied on a training course recently, then it could be time to look at upskilling.

Whether you’re looking to achieve more in your current position, seeking a promotion or considering a career change, make sure the professional skills you have in your armoury stay sharp. How? Here, we list seven practical ways to help you remain relevant and competitive in the job market:

1. Read articles and books

Set aside 30 minutes or an hour each day to get updated on news within your industry or to expand your knowledge of a specific skill. You can check journals, blogs, podcasts or online forums. Pick up a book in your area of interest or download an audiobook to your favourite device, so you can listen to it on your commute to and from the workplace.

2. Learn on the job

Many firms hold training days or workshops to help their employees acquire new skills. LinkedIn Learning is one popular knowledge platform that thousands of employers and employees are investing money and time in. Sometimes they invite speakers to share their expertise. Take advantage and sign up. You can also try asking your manager about any opportunity for training and development if you think specific skills will help facilitate your daily workload. Or why not take on a challenge or fresh project? It could be completed during work time or outside work.

3. Find a mentor

Look for someone you admire within your organisation and approach them to discuss mentorship. Perhaps you can start with some informal meetings – either virtually or in person – then maybe arrange a shadowing opportunity. A good mentor will be like a teacher who will give you real feedback. He/she can be a trusted guide, someone who can help you navigate the professional challenges you face, and you can freely ask them a number of questions that you perhaps would not ask your boss or another team member.

4. Enrol in a class or training programme

There are some technical skills that are hard to teach yourself. Upskill by going back into the classroom where you can be fully engaged in the subject. Ask your company if it can pay for your further training or education. Some appreciate the initiative to learn and are willing to invest in your development. Search for work-related courses online and ask your employer if they are feasible – it could be the best career move you make. Also, some universities are offering “graduate apprenticeships” while other have fully-funded places available for those working or living in the area.

It’s worth checking out what your local educational establishment is offering those already in employment.

5. E-learning

If some classes are not available in your area, or if you find that your schedule is too limiting, online courses can be a great solution to learning new skills and techniques. Look up free webinars or affordable options like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera or Udemy. Try to get a formal certification once you complete your course so you’re sure the skills you gain will be recognised professionally.

6. Apply for an internship or volunteer

Bagging an internship will help you get solid hands-on experience in a specific career or industry, especially if you do not work in it already. You’ll also get invaluable insights and connect with people outside your usual circle. Some internships are paid, some are not, but if you want to get some experience under your belt, it is ideal. And, if you want to help out your community, volunteering is another option and is the perfect way to boost your communication skills as well as many more.

7. Be curious

We spend so much time caught up in the daily grind that sometimes it’s hard to imagine a different way of doing things. Ask questions and open your mind up to possibilities. That’s really the first step in improving yourself and the skills you have to offer to the rest of the world. Ask questions – reach out to others in your organisation, or to contacts in an industry you would like to work in, and make use of the hundreds of LinkedIn connections you have amassed as they could be looking for someone like you, right now.