The global response to COVID-19 has put each of us in unique positions never imagined just several months ago. If you are fortunate to still be employed and working full-time, at home, or at the office, then you are likely continuously adapting to the current environment and your company’s changes.
Now is the perfect time to take advantage of your increased time at home by investing in your education! And no, we’re not talking about a degree program.
What we’re talking about is obtaining online certifications in your career field or in an area of interest to you. These certifications are legitimate and will be a resume booster, skill enhancer, and a great use of your time.
Your Resources
Google offers certifications in education, analytics, coding, digital marketing, and information technology among others. Oftentimes courses are free, such as the Google Digital Garage Fundamentals of Digital Marketing certification. Others require payment and dive deeper into the desired study.
Social media giant LinkedIn also offers courses and certifications for many business and personal development needs such as “Sales: Handling Objections,” and “Improving the Value of Your Time.” LinkedIn Learning offers a free month’s worth of learning services before charging $19.99 per month.
Both are useful and provide great opportunities to branch out and expand your knowledge.
Many people across the country are vowing to come out on the other side of the COVID-19 quarantine having developed better habits or skills, and continuing your professional education is a great investment to make!
Here is why.
Going the Extra Mile Shows Self-Discipline
You might not know it, but your commitment to additional professional growth even when it’s not required displays great self-discipline. This awareness also helps you mentally and emotionally tackle distractions presented by working from home, homeschooling, or adjusting to the new normal. It will only help you in the long-run, and that’s what self-discipline is all about!
A Desire to Learn
Not only are you flexing your self-discipline muscles, but a willingness to grow in a period of uncertainty, unknown, and stress shows your initiative to achieve new goals when heightened relaxation or comfort is easier. You should definitely engage in relaxing activities and your personal hobbies, but take heart in the increased learning opportunity outside the walls of a classroom setting.
The digital landscape is so vast now, and the opportunities are endless with advancing your career. The joy and satisfaction you will experience at the completion of your first course will feel even better knowing you took the opportunity to get ahead during the Coronavirus.
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