How to develop new skills with online learning by Samantha Dalrymple

No matter the focus of your studies or your current abilities, finding and developing new skills is one of the best ways to foster lifelong learning. It’s never enough to accomplish something you thought you couldn’t and then stop. Think about who you are, what you want to do, and who you want to work for.

What are the skills recruiters will be looking for? What do you currently have to offer?

Chances are, you’ve already got valuable skills to bring to the table, but there’s no harm in adding more to your skillset. Here are some of the top skills you can learn entirely online, right now.

1. Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has quickly grown to be one of the most desired skills that companies look for in prospective employees. Cloud computing is more than just data storage, it’s also about understanding effective web and data management. The skills you learn from cloud computing will go beyond the technical side; they can help you understand organisation, user experience, and workflow in a different way. Cloud computing is becoming an essential part of companies around the world, so no matter the company you wish to work for, cloud computing will only boost the valuable skillset you have to offer.

Online options to learn or get certified in cloud computing include:

• Amazon Web Services (AWS): Online courses and training on cloud computing in preparation for the certification exam. Plus, exams are currently being offered online for the first time!
• Cloud Academy: Online courses leading to different levels of certification in Microsoft Azure cloud.

2. Programming

Computer programming can be found across professions and industries, often in ways people would never expect. From computers and the internet to software and apps, programming is involved all around. If you want to start a blog or create a video game, knowing how to code is a skill you should be familiar with. Not only is coding a skill that hiring organisations look for, but it’s also a fun way to create things of your own. It’s called a programming language for a reason: it’s a way to speak to and interact with machines. Learning how to code can help you think differently and solve problems in new ways.

Online options to learn or get certified in programming languages:

• W3Schools: Online courses are entirely free through W3Schools. You can practice coding through their tools and read through literature on rules of coding languages. You can also pay for certification if you pass the exam at the end of each course.
• Codecademy: Learn up to 6 different programming languages through Codecademy. The courses are interactive and in-depth to ensure your proficiency across different coding languages.

3. Automation Development

Automation development has a range of possibilities. With the majority of companies implementing some type of process automation software to automate business processes, it’s no surprise that understanding how to test and develop automation is highly desired. Developing these tools can help you learn how to better streamline processes and manage your time.

You can also learn to develop another type of automation: chatbots. Chatbots are the friendly pop-ups you see on Facebook and across websites that check in to see if they can assist you. Learning how to develop these will give you the ability to build them for websites and companies in the future, or for your own sites. They’re an easy way to automatically answer customer questions and solve problems, so you’ll find that they’re a valuable tool to learn to develop and use.

Online options to learn or get certified in automation development include:

• Automation Anywhere University (AAU): Process automation development courses teach you how to build automated “bots” that complete business tasks. Signing up through the Community option gives students free access to the tools and several courses!
• Cognitive Class: Chatbot courses teach you about chatbots and how to build them. Upon completion of each course and exam, you’ll receive a badge that signifies your ability to develop chatbots.

4. Copywriting

If you like writing or have any interest in working with a nonprofit organisation, copywriting is one skill you’ll want to consider picking up. Copywriting is a type of technical writing that aims to convince readers to do something. Learning how to copywrite will develop your writing skills overall, but it will also teach you the art of persuasion. Understanding how to get the things you want through effective communication and language can help get you ahead a lot sooner in life.

Online options to learn or get certified in copywriting include:

• Comprehensive Copywriting Academy (CCA): Online training teaches real-world copywriting experience, preparing you to be both a strong technical and persuasive writer.
• The BlackFord Centre: Offers 11 different training assignments alongside tutors to give you real, in-depth knowledge and feedback on developing your skills. After completion, you’ll receive a national diploma in copywriting.

5. Graphic Design

Graphic design is a skill that fosters creativity and self-discipline. Picking up the skills to create and design virtually can open up a lot of different opportunities for you. Not only could you work as a graphic designer for a company, but you could also create custom prints that you could sell rights for or create a new font to sell to websites. Graphic design presents many opportunities and is a skill that you can put to use in a variety of ways.

Online options to learn or get certified in graphic design include:

• Alison Online: Multiple levels of graphic design courses available to teach new skills and sharpen existing ones. Some courses end in certification and suggest next-step courses to continue developing your skills.
• CreativePro: This online magazine offers daily literature on graphic design trends and best practices. It also has a How-To section dedicated to teaching different aspects of and tools involved in graphic design.

Consider adding one or a few of these skills to your list to learn, you might be surprised at how far they can take you in your future!