Many Australians are finding themselves with lots of extra time on their hands due to unemployment or reduced working hours. As we are all restricted to stay at home as much as possible, it is the perfect chance to utilise this additional time to up-skill or re-skill. Taking advantage of this unique opportunity can help you advance and increase your career opportunities once the COVID-19 pandemic is over.
Training resources
If you have a specific job, industry or career goal in mind you may need a particular certification. Many universities, TAFE and learning platforms are currently offering free or discounted online courses. The Government site Myskills can help you find the right certification you need to achieve your career goals.
If you don’t have a specific industry in mind, undertaking courses and training on topics such as leadership, management and communication are beneficial for a broad range of jobs.
Expanding your knowledge and skills in computer programs can also make you a desirable candidate. Platforms such as LinkedIn Learning have a variety of course ranging from beginner to advanced skill level for the Microsoft, Adobe and Google suite of programs
If there is a specific program you know you need to improve upon but can’t find an online course, try creating your own project to test and play around with all the functions on the program.
This is also a great time to focus on your personal development skills. Personal development skills can help you become a better problem solver, help you adapt to change, improve relationships and improve mental well-being. There are many online training, podcasts and book options available that focus on a range of different personal development skills.
Employment doesn’t always have to be the driver for upskilling. You might want to use this time to learn something new or expand your knowledge on a particular topic of interest. Whether you want to learn how to play an instrument, learn how to paint, expand your skills in the kitchen or learn about a time in history, there will be a YouTube video, podcast or blog dedicated to teaching you. As an added bonus, having a hobby, doing something creative or having a deep interest in a specific subject may just push you to the top of the pile of applicants when you are looking for employment.
How we support you?
EPIC Assist can also provide extra support during this time. Our employment consultants will continue to service participants through regular teleconferencing appointments.
We’re here to help you create a great CV that will make a standout first impression on employers and results in finding you a job you love.
We take time to get to know you and your interests, skills and career goals. This way we can establish what areas you need to improve upon and what training best suits your needs.
From there, we’ll work with you to prepare job applications, practice interview skills, and attend job interviews.
We also offer additional free support through our mental health consultancy.
If you are looking for extra support during this stressful time, please contact us today. We are here to help you in any way that we can.
