I don't know about you, but I enjoy learning. I have a full library of books, resources and CDs that offer me new insight and equip me with new tools that I can use in my resume writing and coaching practice.
In addition, I continue to invest in ongoing continuing education on an annual basis by attending conferences and participating in webinars/teleseminars and attending local events.
Why? Because I want to make sure that as the economy changes, as new technology and social media tools take over our world and the work life as we know it evolves, that I am not literally left in the dark.
How about you? What kind of "insurance" or emergency plans have you put in place when it comes to your career?
Rather than living in fear of sudden unemployment or unforeseen changes in the workplace, what measures can you put in place to keep yourself marketable, competitive and more importantly, RELEVANT to your field or industry.
A) Take advantage of every learning opportunity
Your company may not be able to sponsor all your advanced education courses, however, this should not be an excuse for not staying abreast of industry trends. Identify local industry and professional organizations that often host free or low-cost events for its members and guests.
Check out www.jobhunt.org for a comprehensive list of professional associations, alumni clubs and networking groups.
B) Look internally for skill-enhancement projects or initiatives
Don't ignore viable opportunities within your current department or division to expand your areas of expertise or strengths. If your workload has slowed down, ask to be placed on other projects or given a chance to shadow your colleagues on a brand, new initiative.
Explore lateral job openings in other parts of the company if it will widen your knowledge and arm you with a new level of qualifications that can serve you later on in your career.
C) Visit your local library or bookstore
Books are still in fashion. Any new topic, area of expertise, advanced technology, or industry-based resources can be found in major bookstore chains like Barnes & Noble and Borders. At a fraction of the price that you would pay for a training course, you may be able to learn the same information through several books.
If you are tech addict, invest in Kindle to keep a volume of books available at the touch of a button - I am not there yet:)
Don't forget about public libraries - if you don't want to spend the $$, simply borrow the books to get the information you need for career growth.
D) Go online to uncover golden nuggets of information
I absolutely love the Internet - quietly despise the addictions it can create at times:) - but love it nevertheless. There is so much available to us at the click of a mouse. Any topic that directly affects your job or information about impending trends that will change your industry can be found online.
Use the Internet to find free teleseminars, webinars, e-books, blogs, and forums. Check out low-cost, online classes and programs or follow key industry leaders on Twitter. We live in the information age and there is absolutely no excuse for you to be left in the dark.
I challenge you this week - which one of these four things can you start this week to make sure that you stay on track and relevant in your career.
