If you feel like there are things you’d like to learn to get better at your job or you’d just like to be more well-rounded in your skillset, consider making learning new skills a part of your experience. Try these four ways to increase your skills at work.
#1. Put Your Lunch Break to Work
Your lunch break can be a valuable time to learn at work. You can bring a book that you’re interested in, try out an app, or sign up for an online class to do while you eat.
Lunch breaks are also the perfect opportunities to read industry blogs and newsletters so that you keep up-to-date on the latest insights and trends in your field.
#2. Take Advantage of Learning and Development Programs
Many employers have programs to help their employees learn more. Some employers sponsor occasional classes or workshops to learn a certain skill, and others might have an education reimbursement program that you can use to sign up for a class at a reduced cost to you.
If your workplace offers these programs, sign up for them whenever you can.
#3. Talk to Your Boss About Learning Opportunities
Employers often want their employees to improve their skills or to become more knowledgeable about the company’s goals. Talk to your boss about your learning goals and what options might be available.
If your boss doesn’t have any programs in place, consider suggesting some options yourself. For example, ask your boss if you can shadow another team for a few hours to learn more about what other employees do and how it relates to the work you do.
You can also ask to meet with senior staff to ask them questions. If you do this, be sure to be professional and courteous of their time. Ask for a reasonable amount of time on their schedule, and prepare thoughtful questions in advance so that you don’t waste their time.
#4. Take On New Assignments
One of the best ways to learn is by doing something. Volunteer for new tasks at work, even if you’re not sure how to go about it at the beginning. If you don’t think you can do the task by yourself, get help as soon as possible so that you can tackle the project confidently. However, make sure you don’t take on assignments that aren’t important to the company or for your development in the long run.
By doing these simple things, you can learn new skills for your job without spending a lot of time or money on professional development.
