Investing in skills is an investment that is sure to earn returns, especially if the skills learned are those that are in high demand on the job market. Such skills experts say include digital marketing, videography, writing, data analytics, computing, and personal finance management skills. Francis Mwangi, an educator, and human resource personnel says online learning is available to those who want to learn flexibly at their own pace, such as professionals who are busy at their jobs or family. He notes that online learning particularly came in handy during lockdowns when institutions of learning were closed. “Learning online shifts the responsibility of learning to the learner, hence requires more discipline and self-management is required. It also requires the learner to have access to electronic gadgets such as tablets, computers or smartphones and stable internet connectivity,” he says. For those who need to upgrade their professional skills such as for career entry or advancement but cannot afford tuition fees in an institution of learning, Mwangi says free online learning sites can provide an alternative. Depending on what one wants to learn and the purpose, he says free online learning can be valuable and that these are not substitutes for formal education and training if salaried employment is the ultimate goal of learning. Most employers still ask for minimum academic qualifications such as bachelor degrees. Examples of free online resources include HubSpot Academy, MIT open courseware, Udemy, Coursera, among others. David Ntambiye, founder and executive director of Aspire Debate Rwanda says to invest in your professional career, it’s vital for one to plan their career path. This, he says can be done by setting a plan of action for your career path as it helps you to achieve your end in mind. Also, he says one should be in position to identify personal drivers that motivate them, in other words have self-motivation. Setting goals and focusing on them is also another important way of investing in your professional skills, according to Ntambiye. Moving forward, he says it’s important for one to invest in their dreams. If one wants to sow the seed, it’s vital that they consider taking care of the plant and water it every day before harvesting the fruits, he points out. “Sometimes the opportunity cost becomes your leisure and entertainment time. There is also need to build quality relationships and networking, remember your network is your net worth.” Ntambiye goes on to note that adapting to new technologies because the 21st century highly demands this is also important as far as investing in your professional skill is concerned. Taking up professional development courses that enhance your productivity in the workplace, keeping an eye on professional development opportunities, and responding to them in the right way are some of the things one should focus on to invest in their professional career. “Stepping out of your comfort zone thinking (you need to be on the go). Don’t waste time, use it wisely. Work extra hours, don’t be afraid to spend more time in your garage to realise your professional dreams,” Ntambiye advises.
