Ways To Invest In Your Learning And Development

I have seen this time and time again. The most successful people are the ones who invest in their learning at work. This can either be formal or informal, but it will likely require that you spend some money or time on improving your skill set. If you're looking to invest in your learning and development, there are plenty of ways to do it and I’ve outlined some examples below.

Earn a professional certification.

There are many types of professional certifications that can help you demonstrate your skills and increase your earning potential. Unlike undergraduate or master’s degrees, certificates and diplomas require less time but are still valuable to both your skillset and on your resume.

Not sure where to start your search on the certificates available? Why not check out Tafe NSW, Open Universities, and My Skills?

Join a professional association or organisation.

By joining a professional association, you can expand your network, learn new skills and gain access to additional resources. Some associations offer educational and networking events that are especially beneficial to young professionals.

Many organisations also provide members with discounted rates on products, services and other benefits you wouldn't otherwise know about.

Check out if your industry has a professional body you can join.

Take a professional development course.

A professional development course is a way to learn something new, grow your skills and knowledge, or just gain confidence in the workplace. These courses can be offered by your employer or an outside source such as a university or company. Many companies offer paid training for employees, but you may also find that some universities have partnerships with local businesses to offer courses at no cost to the employee.

Depending on the type of job you're looking for, taking a professional development course can really help you stand out from other applicants. It can be anything from public speaking to coding and everything in between.

Jump online.

The World Wide Web really is a place with infinite resources you can learn from, both paid and for free. Websites like Masterclass Online, Ted Talks on Youtube, and even content arms of brands, like my own Best Practice, have invaluable resources you can read and watch on your way into the office, waiting in line at the grocery store or in your downtime on the couch.

Learning doesn’t have to always mean textbooks and lectures, and jumping online is a great way to fit learning and development around your lifestyle.

I hope that this list of ideas has given you some new inspiration for how to invest in yourself—and maybe even helped you think about ways you haven’t considered before!

Keep Learning, 

Kobi Simmat.