Being agile and adaptive was what got most professionals through a very tough 2020. If you’re unsure of how to secure your future prospects, it’s time to consider upskilling.
The unexpected – seems it can happen. And so 2020 very clearly schooled us. We were forced to reset on many fronts – from social interactions to our career prospects. On the career front, the strategically astute understood that a fulfilling and sustainable future career meant we’d have to adapt. Be ready for whatever an uncertain future was to throw at us. What’s the quickest way to regain some control of your future? Professional skill development. In a word, upskilling.
What’s upskilling?
Upskilling is learning new skills to improve your performance – and possibilities – in your current career. It means developing advanced or additional skills to make you more effective in your industry, even as it changes.
Three reasons to upskill
- Increase your job security and satisfaction.
- Be ready for promotion or new opportunities.
- Get ready – fast.
Upskilling in the world of data, IT and cyber security
Let’s look at the digital world. Last year the job market was in a state of flux. Automation and smart technology had already begun to disrupt traditional employment opportunities. And then, Australia’s digital economy rapidly transformed in response to forced lockdowns.
Digital skills were in high demand – ranging from basic IT capabilities through to expertise with cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Joanne Parker, a lecturer in information technology at Charles Sturt University, explains it was the perfect opportunity for those in the IT industry to upskill and meet the skill shortages.
“The diversity of information technology applications means you can grow your professional experience. You need a solid foundation in the theories and principles of information technology, but upskilling will be increasingly important as the rate of change and innovation increases.
“Your career can then take you across many industries, with a range of possible roles – from project management to network engineering, cybersecurity, marketing or programming.”
Quick and cost-effective change
Upskilling doesn’t have to mean a large investment of time or money. A graduate certificate from Charles Sturt University can net you a new qualification in just six months of online study. You might even be eligible for credit for some subjects, based on your work experience or existing qualifications.
And, we’re making it affordable for you to get job-ready. Complete one of our select graduate certificates in 2021 and you’ll make significant savings – as much as 80 per cent off the standard fee.
Charles Sturt University offers a range of online courses to help professionals diversify and enhance their skillset. Find out more at csu.edu.au