If you’re looking to take the next step in your career in 2020, boosting your skills is key to getting your resume noticed.
But going back to college isn’t the only way to enhance your strengths, instead opting for an online course, could be an easier and cheaper way to learn.
Below we have put together 5 skills you can self-learn, that’ll help you develop an interview winning resume.
Advanced Excel
If you’re looking to get ahead in 2020, being proficient with Excel is essential. Getting the basics pinned down is vital in any role, such as creating simple tables or filtering columns.
Get to grips with the software by undertaking training directly from Microsoft, or if you have already mastered the basics, develop your knowledge by learning more complex functionality.
Knowledge of pivot tables or V-lookups could give you an edge over the competition, so consider reviewing Excel tips or tutorial guides, to enhance these skills.
A new language
English is no longer the most commonly spoken language in the world, and with Mandarin and Spanish overtaking in popularity, it’s vital to enhance your language skills.
Employers are always seeking candidates who are multilingual, so learning a new language is a great way to boost your resume.
Websites such as Duolingo offer access to countless free language courses, with no subscription. But that’s not the only option. YouTube can also give you the option to explore thousands of videos, enabling you to learn at your own speed.
Coding
In the digital age, coding is no longer a skill set only required by those pursuing a career in IT. Whether you focus on web development coding, or explore the ability to read code for data analysis, these skills are in high demand.
Code Academy has a range of courses, that allow you to learn by doing and give you instant feedback so you can put your new skills into practise. Once you’ve gained skills in this area, reflect on building a portfolio to highlight this competency. Not only describing your new capability but actually showing this to employers.
Public speaking
Highlighting the ability to speak in public, will in turn show your confidence, communication skills and ability to influence to employers, so it’s vital to include within your resume.
Public speaking is definitely a strength where practise makes perfect, and an online class could help you home this skill.
Include courses such as an Introduction to Public Speaking or Introduction to TED-Style Speaking to the qualification section of your resume, focusing on what you learnt from this experience.
Writing
Upskilling your written communication is crucial, whether understanding how to write a professional email, writing a letter or communicating through a PowerPoint presentation.
Sites such as Class Central, can help you develop technical or business writing techniques, or help you develop your grammar.
Reflect on the types of roles you’re pursuing, featuring examples of your written communication, especially those linked to your area of expertise. For example, for marketing roles, showcase the ability to write punchy, engaging social media posts.
Andrew Fennell is the founder of CV writing advice website StandOut CV – he is a former recruitment consultant and contributes careers advice to websites like Business Insider, The Guardian and FastCompany.
