How to identify the need for training?
seek-trainingFast evolving industry trends driven by digitalization, technology and sustainability have an impact on workplace skill requirements. The rise of online education and short-term training is making it easier and more accessible for people to gain the proper knowledge and skills. No matter the stage you’re at on your professional journey, recognizing when to seek training is key to finding the right learning path for your needs. Here are some indicators that tell you when to consider training and keep a competitive advantage.
When you’re unemployed
Being unemployed is an opportunity to take inventory of your skills and identify those you’re missing. When you search for work, take note of the specific skills employers are looking for, and evaluate if your profile meets the job posting requirements. If you notice a gap, training can be an effective solution to gain the necessary skills and to upgrade your resume. For example, if there’s a growing demand for digital marketing skills in your field, take an online marketing course.
Maybe you’re considering self-employment or thinking about opening your company. You can find training programs that teach you how to start and manage a business, or how to market your products and services. You can also verify if you’re eligible to take training while receiving Employment Insurance (EI) benefits. Optimize the time you spend looking for a new job by upgrading your skills and knowledge.
When you notice a skill gap in your current position
Seek training to close a skill gap in your current position and to improve your work performance. If you find your tasks hard to complete and your responsibilities challenging, it can signal an opportunity for improvement. Ask your employer about taking training courses to bridge the gap between your skill set and the skills required to do your job well.
You might need to learn a specific software or how to master new technology in your workplace. You might feel the need to improve the way you manage your time, organize your workload, or gain better complex problem-solving abilities. In most cases, companies get a greater return on investment by training their current workforce than hiring new people. If the quality of your work decreases because of a lack or proper knowledge, don’t wait to become disengaged to talk with your employer about training options.
When you want to advance your career
Whether you want to find a better job, get a promotion or transition to a new career, you need to have the right skills and experience to achieve your goal. When you explore other employment opportunities you might discover areas of expertise, you need to develop. Seek training to acquire new competencies and to get the job you really want.
When you must keep up with evolving industry trends
Adapting to industry changes is essential for businesses and workers to remain competitive on the market. Most sectors are shifting to automation and incorporating new technology. Regardless of industry, in the years to come all jobs will require digital skills such as digital literacy and knowing how to use online media platforms. Added to that, growing global warming concerns are increasing the demand for green jobs and environmentally conscious initiatives. Essential sectors such as agriculture, transportation, or the oil and gas industry must adopt sustainable practices. This shift in industry trends has a direct impact on job requirements. Seek training when you need to upskill and re-skill to stay ahead of your industry.
When you must comply with legal or regulatory requirements
When there’s an obligation to comply with laws and regulations in your industry, training is the obvious solution. This type of training is usually part of a company’s roadmap and planned or a reoccurring basis. For example, in the food industry companies must renew their food safety certificate every few years. Whether you’re an owner or an employee, make sure you’re getting the required training to remain compliant with regulations.
Conclusion
Knowing when to seek training can have a positive impact on your professional development. Rapidly changing industry trends have a major influence on the job market. Proper training can make the difference between job decline and job gain. Whether you’re unemployed, planning your next career move, feeling the need to bridge a skill gap or to remain compliant with regulations, training is highly beneficial investment.
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