How Short Courses Can Lead to a New Career

Whatever your current career goal may be--a new job, a career change, or greater job security--learning new work skills is a way to make it happen.

Considering how the pandemic has brought changes and challenges to businesses, it becomes even more important to acquire new skills for work. According to the latest COVID-19 Job Report, 26 per cent of Malaysian employers are expecting not to hire over the next six months. This points to tighter competition among jobseekers, especially for those who are considering changing careers.

Read on to learn how short courses can move your career in a new direction.

Why should you consider enrolling in short courses?

A quick search online will reveal a diverse selection of courses designed for professionals in different industries and with varying skill levels. A great number of these courses are designed for beginners, giving those hoping to enter a new industry the relevant basic skills and knowledge.

It will also give you an edge over other applicants. Prospective employers will see that you value lifelong learning, are open to change, and take steps to expand your knowledge and expertise. So, do make sure you list the courses you have taken when you update your resume.

Short courses can help you achieve holistic professional growth.

While it is true that certain jobs require technical skills that take years to build, there are other equally important skills that you can enhance as you pursue a career change: your transferable skills.

Because these portable, universal skills enable you to succeed in any industry or environment, you should also consider short courses on leadership, communication, and other transferable skills. Though we live in an increasingly tech-driven society, inherently human skills will always be valuable to any organisation.

Some would argue that the majority of  skills that one needs to succeed are learnt through experience. While this may be true in some cases, this should not stop you from taking the educational route.

How can short courses and new skills open up new opportunities for you?

• They equip you with practical skills that make you qualify for your dream job. When coupled with transferable skills that vouch for your value as an employee, these practical skills will help you get your foot in the door.
• These courses make you more valuable to your current organisation. If you are also open to staying within your current company but in a new - and better - role, then new skills could make that happen for you.
• When paired with the right transferable skills, the new qualifications that you gain from short courses will catch the attention of recruiters. This means that you boost your chance of passing the first level of screening and getting invited for an interview.
• They formalise and reinforce any skills you have learnt in your past or current roles. Certifications of completed courses lend credibility to your expertise when you apply for a new job.
• They give you new professional contacts and allow you to expand your network. As you interact with your professors and fellow students, you can generate leads for employment opportunities in a new industry.

Now that you know the benefits of learning new job skills, how should you go about it? First, identify what jobs are in demand. Which industries are hiring, and for what kind of roles? Next, assess your current skills and compare them with the specific requirements of the position you are eyeing. Knowing the gaps in your skill set will help narrow down your options and align them with your preferred industry.

Upskill to get a job that matters to you.

No matter what short course you choose to take, it will speak volumes about your willingness to learn new things. This will help employers see the amount of passion and purpose that you will bring to their company. By showcasing that you have the right attitude and skills to excel, you bring yourself a step closer to a successful and fulfilling career.

Ready to shift your career to high gear? Update your Jobstreet profile and start searching for #JobsThatMatter to you, whatever your personal and professional goals may be. If you are immediately available for employment, add #WorkNow to your profile. For more insights and practical advice, visit our Career Resources Hub.

At JobStreet, we believe in bringing you #JobsThatMatter. As a Career Partner, we are committed to helping all jobseekers find passion and purpose in every career choice. And as the number 1 Talent Partner in Asia, we connect employers with the right candidates who truly make a positive and lasting impact on the organisation.

Discover Jobs That Matter. Visit JobStreet today.

About SEEK Asia

SEEK Asia , a combination of two leading brands JobStreet and JobsDB, is the leading job portal and Asia's preferred destination for candidates and hirers. SEEK Asia’s presence span across 7 countries namely Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines and Vietnam. SEEK Asia is part of the Australian Securities Exchange-listed SEEK Limited Company, the world's largest job portal by market capitalization. SEEK Asia attracts over 400 million visits a year.

About SEEK Limited

SEEK is a diverse group of companies, comprising a strong portfolio of online employment, educational, commercial and volunteer businesses. SEEK has a global presence (including Australia, New Zealand, China, Hong Kong, South-East Asia, Brazil and Mexico), with exposure to over 2.9 billion people and approximately 27 per cent of global GDP. SEEK makes a positive contribution to people’s lives on a global scale. SEEK is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, where it is a top 100 company and has been listed in the Top 20 Most Innovative Companies by Forbes.