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Skills

Explore articles about career skills, technical skills, and professional development. Learn about certifications for in-demand skills like Python, Microsoft Excel, and project management to build job-ready skills and prepare for new career opportunities.

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[Featured Image] A mentor and student are having a discussion about the student's future.

What a Mentor Is and Why You Should Have One

Mentors support your development, whether personal, professional, or academic. Continue reading to learn about the importance of mentorship, including how to find a mentor or become one yourself.

October 28, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A young worker uses abstract thinking in the workplace to brainstorm solutions and write them on a tablet.

What Is Abstract Thinking and How to Cultivate It

When you go beyond specific information to understand the bigger picture, consider underlying meaning, and identify themes, you engage in abstract thinking. Read on to discover its value and how to develop your abstract thinking skills.

October 28, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person sits comfortably on a sofa in a nicely decorated living room while reading a book.

What Is Conceptual Thinking?

Conceptual thinking can help you manage the complexities in your personal and professional life. Explore what it is, discover how it relates to hypothetical situations and abstract concepts, and learn tips to develop this skill.

October 25, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A mentor and student are having a discussion about the student's future.

What a Mentor Is and Why You Should Have One

Mentors support your development, whether personal, professional, or academic. Continue reading to learn about the importance of mentorship, including how to find a mentor or become one yourself.

October 28, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A young worker uses abstract thinking in the workplace to brainstorm solutions and write them on a tablet.

What Is Abstract Thinking and How to Cultivate It

When you go beyond specific information to understand the bigger picture, consider underlying meaning, and identify themes, you engage in abstract thinking. Read on to discover its value and how to develop your abstract thinking skills.

October 28, 2024

Article

Boost your skills with these popular courses

Status: Free Trial

Macquarie University

Skills you'll gain: Excel Formulas, Dashboard, Microsoft Excel, Dashboard Creation, Data Wrangling, Excel Macros, Data Preprocessing, Spreadsheet Software, Data Validation, Data Manipulation, Data Processing, Data Presentation, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Analysis Software, Business Analytics, Data Modeling, Financial Forecasting, Analytical Skills, Predictive Modeling, Productivity Software

4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
64K reviews

Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Status: Free Trial

IBM

Skills you'll gain: Problem Solving, Presentations, Collaboration, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Root Cause Analysis, Constructive Feedback, Interpersonal Communications, Oral Expression, Communication, Team Collaboration, Persuasive Communication, Creative Problem-Solving, Virtual Teams, Social Skills, Public Speaking, Verbal Communication Skills, Professional Development, Professionalism, Ability To Meet Deadlines, Operational Efficiency

4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
5.9K reviews

Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Status: Free Trial

University of California, Davis

Skills you'll gain: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Problem Solving, Empathy & Emotional Intelligence, Growth Mindedness, Emotional Intelligence, Adaptability, Social Skills, Creative Problem-Solving, Brainstorming, Complex Problem Solving, Active Listening, Critical Thinking, Resilience, Open Mindset, Independent Thinking, Professional Development, Action Oriented, Culture Transformation, Willingness To Learn, Growth Strategies

4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8K reviews

Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

[Featured Image] Two people are sitting at a table together and practicing tips for how to learn a new language.

How to Learn a New Language: Tips for Beginners

Learning a new language can unlock exciting opportunities in both your personal life and career. Discover effective tips for how to learn a new language quickly, including options for learning online.

October 24, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person holding a pen looks at the notes and highlights in their planner, as well as a calendar, as they consider how to prioritize tasks.

How to Prioritize Tasks for Greater Productivity

Learning how to prioritize tasks is an important step for more productivity, less stress, and improved focus on what’s important to you. Read on to discover different methods, including using a matrix to prioritize work or personal tasks.

October 22, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A professional overcomes the Einstellung Effect while brainstorming ways to find a solution to a pressing problem.

Improve Your Problem-Solving: Master the Einstellung Effect

The Einstellung Effect describes a counterintuitive problem in problem-solving. Dive in to learn how to spot this phenomenon and how to use this awareness to improve your problem-solving skills.

October 22, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person sits at a workspace and creates a list as part of a chunking strategy.

What Is Chunking, and How Can It Improve Memory?

Learn about the strategy of chunking and how to use it to improve memory.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person in a plaid shirt and glasses sits at a table working on a laptop, sending an email, one of the most common forms of asynchronous communication.

What Is Asynchronous Communication (And Why It's Essential)?

Asynchronous communication refers to interactions that happen at different times for those involved, such as emailing. Learn more about asynchronous communication and how it helps teams improve productivity, inclusivity, collaboration, and company culture.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A real estate appraiser with a tablet is in a neighborhood gathering competitive intelligence for a business meeting.

A Guide to Competitive Intelligence

Competitive intelligence gives you the information you need to make the best strategic business decisions. Discover why competitive intelligence is important and how it can help you gain a competitive edge.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person sits at a desk and uses analytical skills while viewing financial data on a computer.

Analytical Skills: What Are They and How Can They Help Me Get a Job?

Good analytical skills are critical for getting a job across almost any industry. Learn what they are and how you can improve yours to help you find a job.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person works on memory retention exercises while sitting at their desk at home in front of their laptop.

What Is Memory Retention? (Why It Matters and How to Improve It)

Explore what memory is, how memory retention benefits you, and real-world strategies for improved memory retention in your professional career.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] Two young professionals shadow a professional mentor during their practicum as they learn about job responsibilities in a particular field.

What Is a Practicum?

If you’ve never heard of a practicum, you might be surprised to learn of its benefits. Explore what a practicum is, the experience it provides, and the fields that require practicums as part of your education.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person sits comfortably on a sofa in a nicely decorated living room while reading a book.

What Is Conceptual Thinking?

Conceptual thinking can help you manage the complexities in your personal and professional life. Explore what it is, discover how it relates to hypothetical situations and abstract concepts, and learn tips to develop this skill.

October 25, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] Two people are sitting at a table together and practicing tips for how to learn a new language.

How to Learn a New Language: Tips for Beginners

Learning a new language can unlock exciting opportunities in both your personal life and career. Discover effective tips for how to learn a new language quickly, including options for learning online.

October 24, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person holding a pen looks at the notes and highlights in their planner, as well as a calendar, as they consider how to prioritize tasks.

How to Prioritize Tasks for Greater Productivity

Learning how to prioritize tasks is an important step for more productivity, less stress, and improved focus on what’s important to you. Read on to discover different methods, including using a matrix to prioritize work or personal tasks.

October 22, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A professional overcomes the Einstellung Effect while brainstorming ways to find a solution to a pressing problem.

Improve Your Problem-Solving: Master the Einstellung Effect

The Einstellung Effect describes a counterintuitive problem in problem-solving. Dive in to learn how to spot this phenomenon and how to use this awareness to improve your problem-solving skills.

October 22, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person sits at a workspace and creates a list as part of a chunking strategy.

What Is Chunking, and How Can It Improve Memory?

Learn about the strategy of chunking and how to use it to improve memory.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person in a plaid shirt and glasses sits at a table working on a laptop, sending an email, one of the most common forms of asynchronous communication.

What Is Asynchronous Communication (And Why It's Essential)?

Asynchronous communication refers to interactions that happen at different times for those involved, such as emailing. Learn more about asynchronous communication and how it helps teams improve productivity, inclusivity, collaboration, and company culture.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A real estate appraiser with a tablet is in a neighborhood gathering competitive intelligence for a business meeting.

A Guide to Competitive Intelligence

Competitive intelligence gives you the information you need to make the best strategic business decisions. Discover why competitive intelligence is important and how it can help you gain a competitive edge.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person sits at a desk and uses analytical skills while viewing financial data on a computer.

Analytical Skills: What Are They and How Can They Help Me Get a Job?

Good analytical skills are critical for getting a job across almost any industry. Learn what they are and how you can improve yours to help you find a job.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] A person works on memory retention exercises while sitting at their desk at home in front of their laptop.

What Is Memory Retention? (Why It Matters and How to Improve It)

Explore what memory is, how memory retention benefits you, and real-world strategies for improved memory retention in your professional career.

October 21, 2024

Article

[Featured Image] Two young professionals shadow a professional mentor during their practicum as they learn about job responsibilities in a particular field.

What Is a Practicum?

If you’ve never heard of a practicum, you might be surprised to learn of its benefits. Explore what a practicum is, the experience it provides, and the fields that require practicums as part of your education.

October 21, 2024

Article

Skills are crucial for individuals looking to start a new career or switch careers for several reasons:

  • Relevance: Acquiring relevant skills ensures that you are equipped to meet the demands of your chosen career path. It allows you to perform effectively in your role and stay competitive in the job market.

  • Adaptability: In today's rapidly evolving job market, diverse skills make you more adaptable to changes. You'll be better prepared to navigate shifts in industry trends, technological advancements, and job requirements.

  • Marketability: Employers value candidates who possess a wide range of skills. By continually developing your skills, you increase your marketability and attractiveness to potential employers, enhancing your chances of landing your desired job or advancing your career.

  • Career Growth: Acquiring new skills opens up opportunities for career advancement. Whether gaining specialized knowledge in your field or developing transferable skills applicable across various industries, continuous skill development can propel your career forward.

  • Personal Development: Learning new skills enhances your professional capabilities and contributes to your personal growth. It boosts your confidence, expands your knowledge base, and fosters a sense of achievement and fulfillment.

  • Future-proofing: By staying proactive about acquiring skills, you can help future-proof your career against potential obsolescence. Industries are constantly evolving, and jobs that exist today may not be the same in the future. Investing in skills that are in demand ensures that you remain valuable in the job market.

  • Networking Opportunities: Engaging in skill development activities such as workshops, courses, or industry events provides opportunities to expand your professional network. Networking can lead to valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and even job referrals.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)