You want to advance your career. How can you develop the skills to make it happen?

Analizar aquellas habilidades que debemos mejorar es el mejor punto de arranque para poder seguir creciendo. Pensar en mejorar es reconocer que tenemos áreas que nos faltan por explorar para que florezca la mejor versión de nosotros. Es fundamental saber en que áreas somos "buenos", es decir, cuáles son nuestras fortalezas. Así cuáles son nuestras debilidades, para ello nos puede ayudar realizar un test de competencias. Mejorar nuestras competencias debe ser un proceso en continua "ebullición". No debemos dejar que nuestras habilidades se queden obsoletas. Seguir formándonos y practicar continuamente nuestras competencias nos hará seguir creciendo.

Take a strategic approach by first assessing where you are and where you want to go. Consider what are your long term career goals and which direction you are heading towards. What new skills would you need for your long term goals? To find out more about what new skills you need, speak to colleagues, network with people in the industry, network with people in the roles you want to be in, and seek their advise. Research job roles to find out what skills are required, and then make a plan on your next steps!

When assessing your skills for career advancement, the KEY is to filter and focus on what's relevant to your goals. It's not just about knowing your skills; it's about understanding which ones matter most. Don't fall into the trap of listing every skill you have and ending up with a mediocre mix. Instead, be discerning. Identify the skills that align with what you want to do or achieve. Separate the exceptional from the average. By honing in on the skills that truly matter, you'll stand out and make a real impact in your career journey.

To tackle the overwhelming array of training options, take one decisive step: Just do it! Choose an exciting training or resource to try. Avoid scattering your energy by attempting everything at once. Remember, you have limitations. Don't let the overwhelm paralyze you from taking any action at all. Experiment with different approaches and see what works best for you. Embrace learning through hands-on experience, taking on new challenges and roles. Stay focused to make progress without drowning in choices.

One suggestion that I found the most helpful is: consistency is key. Carve out time for your goals, even if it's just 30 minutes each morning before work. The benefits may not be immediate, but your future self will undoubtedly appreciate the effort you invest in your growth.

WHO you showcase your skills to is just as important as learning a new skill. When possible, build your rapport with supervisor and employer and let him/her/them know that you are looking to widen your responsibilities and role. Learning about what necessary skills are currently required, as well as those that may not be anticipated but beneficial, should be considered when choosing to "upskill" yourself. however ensure that the skills match what your current employer values. Tailoring your efforts to improve yourself and align with employer goals and needs will improve results towards advancing your career.

If I may break it down into actionable steps, start by taking the easy first step of updating your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile. Highlight relevant examples and achievements that demonstrate your impact. This sets a solid foundation. Then, up your game by engaging with influential individuals like managers, colleagues, clients, or recruiters. Networking, communicating, and actively participating in events, forums, or industry communities will enhance your visibility and reputation. Remember, skill development is ongoing. By following these steps, you'll establish a strong initial presence and continue to elevate your professional profile.

One great way to practice skills, and also have a place to showcase them, is through volunteer work. Consider connecting with nonprofit organizations that could use the skills you're developing to advance their good works. While giving back to your community, you are also creating tangible experiences (and successes!) that prove your knowledge and usage of these skills that will help you advance your career. Additionally, volunteering shows your dedication to others, highlights your passion for a good cause, and offers you the opportunity to know you are contributing to the wellbeing of others.

The way I would advocate enhance skills to advance a career is to: 1. Identify what you'd love to be known for I.e. the change you'd like to help make in the world. 2. I'd then go; what problems does that mean I need to be able to fix it challenges be able to overcome? 3. If then go what have I overcome and what haven't I? 3. Then I'd go after the next challenge on the list and excel at it. 4. Once id excelled at it - I'd go and excel in it and address the next challenge on the list in a 'bigger pond'. The ability to solve problems, deliver change and lead those too will get you where you want to be. Think challenge/not skills - the skills will come. Stefan

An important point to consider when developing skills to advance your career is to `Embrace Failure and Learn from Setbacks`. It`s a given that setbacks and failures are a natural part of the learning process. Instead of getting discouraged, you must view them as opportunities for growth and learning. But do not overlook analyzing what went wrong, to improve and develop your skills further. I believe resilience is a key skill that helps you bounce back from setbacks and stay motivated.