Lifelong learning is a familiar phrase, with many of us affirming to be committed to it, but in this fast-changing world with the invention of AI, constant business re-modelling and with the automation of job roles, how can we commit to learning at work whilst still effectively working?
There are lots of ways you can incorporate learning into your workday, without taking hours aside to do it. Master these essential learning skills and advance your career through consistent development and improvement.
- Sign up for newsletters
- Join professional learning communities
- Talk to your manager
- Allocate time to learn
Sign up for newsletters
Your email inbox is probably full of newsletters from various companies that you shop with, but have you ever considered signing up for newsletters that you can learn from too?
Newsletters can help you stay up to date with current trends, the latest industry news and gossip without having to do the longwinded research yourself. Learn from experts in your field and enjoy all the latest updates being delivered straight to you.
Regardless of the industry you are in, there will be a professional body waiting for you to sign up for their newsletters! For example, a scientist or mathematician might want to sign up for newsletters from phys.org, or sciencedaily.com to be the first to hear about new theories or breakthroughs. Or, someone working in healthcare might find it useful to sign up for related healthcare professional newsletters, such as the macmillan.org.uk primary care or mac update, quarterly e-newsletters for health and social care professionals. Try having a quick Google search for your specific industry and spend some time signing up for different newsletters.
Join professional learning communities
Professional learning communities support, develop and represent people in specific industries. There are professional learning communities in different capacities for all sectors, and some can be extremely niche!
Organisations like the Chartered Institute of Marketing, or the Chartered Institute of Public Relations offer professional memberships, training courses and further qualifications which are recognised by employers.
Other professional learning communities are free to access and can be a great way to network with and learn from like-minded people in your industry. Online searches are often the best way to find these communities, but we recommend checking out Facebook groups that you can join and following relevant LinkedIn hashtags.
Talk to your manager
Being honest with your manager about what you want to learn is a good way to get the ball rolling. Your manager will know more about the training opportunities available through the company you’re working for and should be able to book you in for courses. Speaking to your manager and keeping them in the loop will also mean they can begin to assign you jobs that they know you’re interested in and can help you learn on the job. Alternatively, your manager should be able to signpost you in the best direction for other learning opportunities outside of work. Discover six practical tips for career progression.
Allocate time to learn
Allocating time to learn is the most effective way of sticking to your plan. Whether that’s allocating time in your calendar during working hours to read newsletters or get on with training, or dedicating an hour of your free time to learn a new skill. Having time devoted as your ‘learning time’ will help you stick to your routine and make progress quickly.
Allocating time to learn, telling people your goals and therefore being held accountable for your learning are all good ways to get started. Use the internet to your best advantage and ask lots of questions along the way. Follow these tips and lifelong learning will become a whole lot easier!
If you are looking for a new role that gives you more opportunities to learn then register with Unitemps and find a position today.
Last updated on 8 April 2024
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