Improving Skills

My Blogs and Profile :: Table of Contents

I'm dedicating this part of my blog to free resources for skill improvement to help you find a job, or get that promotion in your current job. This is Step Four in my Employment blog.

Note that this content is fluid, as I research to add new, improve existing, and remove outdated information. Because of this, if you reference my blog, please be sure to include the update date in your source. If your document is important, it's recommended to print out the blog as it is at the moment you access it, and keep in handy in case it is needed for your sources.

1. Public Speaking.
   I'm addressing public speaking first because it is both one of the most used skills, if not the most used, in today's careers, and because it's one that is least commonly pursued. We use this skill in everything from speaking before assemblies to going over stats with two supervisors. Skills gained from public speaking practice help you present clearly and confidently in matters big and small, in front of large audiences or in one-on-one sessions.
   
   Unfortunately, public speaking is one of the most common phobias (Das), so many of us avoid speaking in public, which makes us worse at speaking publicly when necessary, which makes us even more afraid, which starts a vicious cycle.
   
   The best way to improve public speaking is through practice. Take opportunities to speak when there isn't so much riding on it. Toastmasters is an excellent resource. They have a small annual membership fee and there are even public meetings you can attend without membership.
2. Computer Skills.
   You absolutely must know how to use a computer. There's almost no career anymore that doesn't rely on computers. At the minimum, you should know how to use email, Microsoft Word, and Excel. Goodwill Community Foundation Learning is an excellent resource with free online learning for, among other things, basic computer skills, Excel, Office, and how to use Google.
   
   The more you improve your computer skills, the more options for good careers open up to you. I recommend improving typing speed and accuracy to a minimum of 50 WPM (words per minute). You can find tons of practice programs by Googling "free online typing practice" or "free online typing test." It's nice to know your score: you can include it in the Skills section of your résumé.

Last updated: 21 Feb. 2012.

References

• Das, Neha. Fear or disease? Deccan Herald. Web. 13 Feb. 2012.