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Do you feel unappreciated at work? Have you thought about starting your own business, but don’t know how to begin? Maybe you wonder if you could do better at a different company – or you’re happy where you are, but think you’d be better off in a different role.
Whether you want to move up or move out, you can’t deny it. In order for you to feel satisfied on the job, something’s gotta change. If only you knew where to start…Don’t feel overwhelmed. There are a few things you can do to stay relevant in today’s job market.
Take a class
Face it. When it comes to getting ahead, something you don’t know could be keeping you back. Maybe you want a promotion, but don’t know the latest graphics software.
Or, your interpersonal skills need work. People often underestimate the benefits of studying something like public speaking.
Going back to school isn’t just for people who are fresh out of university. Learning a new skill can help your career at any age. Think of the benefits! You’ll be more helpful to your coworkers. You can use what you learn to move up in your current company or even move on to somewhere else.
And you know what they say about knowledge being empowering? It’s true! There’s nothing like the confidence that comes from learning something new!
Teach a class
Think about all the things you’ve learned in your life. Chances are, you know a lot more than you realize. There’s also a chance that someone out there would pay to have a skill that you take for granted. Have you ever thought about sharing what you know? You might want to give teaching a try.
Your experience as an instructor will do more than look good on your resume. As you teach others, you learn. The research you do while you prepare lessons can help you to keep up with your industry’s standards. Not to mention all of the research, organization and communication skills that you can gain from coordinating a classroom.
If you’re looking for a place to teach, you might want to approach the staff at your local library or community college. If an online classroom is more your thing, you might want to teach via a website like Skillshare.
Find a mentor
What if you want to try a new career, but the thought of leaving your job to try something new scares you? You might want advice from someone who already works in the area you’re interested in. A mentor can give you insights into a field you’ve wondered about but never tried. S/he can support you by sharing information about unknown resources, as well as tips for career survival.
But how do you find a mentor in the first place? Professional organizations in your current or aspirational field are an excellent place to start. When meeting your potential mentor, don’t waste his/her time; the time you spend together is for your own good. You might find that the career of your choice is exactly the one you need. On the other hand, you could learn that what you thought was your dream job doesn’t suit you at all. Either way, by developing a relationship with a mentor, you can’t lose.
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About the author: Claire Francis is a writer who’s been in love with words since she knew what they were. On her blog, claireshegoes.com, she shares her thoughts on everything from prayer to pop culture. When not letting wayward apostrophes get under her skin, Claire enjoys cooking and chocolate.
What are some of the ways you’ve kept yourself and skills relevant in these tough times? Tell us in the comments section below.