Why it's important to keep your skills up to date

So you've finished your studies and got the job, or you've been in your industry for years — why should you go back to study? There are plenty of reasons why keeping your skills up to date can benefit your career. Especially when, with TAFE Queensland, adding extra qualifications to your resume could be easier than you might think. 

The times they are a changin' 

Did you know that the first iPhone was released in Australia in 2008? It's hard to imagine something that has become so universally accepted has only been in our lives for a little over a decade. One small change that revolutionised how we access information, buy products and services, and connect with others through social media.

Imagine what else has changed over the last 10 years. That qualification you got even just a few years ago might now be out of date. Even if you don't work in a traditionally technology-driven industry, factors like legislative changes, new methods of communication, or changing customer trends can have an impact on the skills you need to do your job effectively. 

Don't be the one who gets lefts behind. Make sure you keep your knowledge and skills up to date. Be on the lookout for opportunities for professional development and don't be afraid to add to your existing skillset with a short course or formal qualification.

You gotta do what you gotta do

In some industries it may be a requirement of the job to keep your skills up to date. Your employer may require you to complete updated certifications or licences in order to remain industry current. Or you may need to undertake refresher training in order to stay licenced or remain a member of professional bodies. 

Be sure to check with your employer or industry body to see what qualifications you need to stay ahead of the curve. Once you know what courses you need to complete, ensure you choose a provider that has a solid reputation and whose qualifications are industry recognised. 

It's a long way to the top

One obvious benefit to biting the bullet and investing in your education and training is that it can help with your career progression. No manager wants to have a staff member that lacks the skills they need to do their job effectively. But as much as some employers may see the importance of investing in their staff, the responsibility to keep your skills up to date rests with you.

Enhancing your qualifications is a way to demonstrate to your manager that you're passionate about your industry and take your job seriously. Being highly skilled will help you stand out from the crowd and could help you land that promotion or pay rise you've been hanging out for. 

If you're worried about fitting study into your already busy lifestyle, an online course might be just what you're looking for. Think you can't study online courses in your field? Think again. These days more and more providers are expanding their online offering with child care, nursing, building, engineering, plumbing, animal care, and agriculture courses now all available to study online.  

Get your mojo back

Another hidden benefit of expanding your skill set or refreshing your skills is that it can give you a new zest for your current career. In a world where we often spend eight hours a day, five days a week at work (and more), it pays to have a career you're passionate about. But if you're not constantly chopping and changing roles, it's easy for even a great job to start to lose its sparkle after a while. 

Taking the time to brush up on the latest trends and skills in your industry can help you reinvigorate your career. With your new skills under your belt you can feel confident sharing new ideas, creating efficiencies, and feeling passionate and inspired about where the industry is heading. 

If you're more concerned with learning about the latest trends rather than getting a formal qualification then a short course could be for you. No matter what industry you're in there's a huge range of short courses that you can complete in as little as a day. Some accredited short courses may even give you credit towards a certificate or diploma if you decide to upgrade your skills in the future. 

With a range of nationally-recognised courses including short courses, certificates, diplomas and even bachelor degrees, TAFE Queensland can help you keep your skills industry current.