Editor’s Note: Expert talent acquisition strategist Molly Weaver of Sunflower Talent Strategies contributes this guest blog post about upskilling and reskilling. She is an innovative talent acquisition strategist with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations design and implement candidate-focused experiences that attract top talent.

The time for upskilling is… now.

The pace of change in 2024 isn’t projected to slow down one bit, with new technologies and ways of working constantly emerging. That means upskilling and reskilling should be integral parts of your career plan. In today’s fast-paced world, staying ahead of the curve is essential for career growth and job security.

If you’re ready to up your skills game, look ahead for skills you’ll need as you advance your career. Rather than thinking about your skills and experience as fixed entities, think of them as fluid and ever-evolving.

Here are a few strategies to help with ongoing skill-building.

Embrace technological advancements: Stay updated with the latest technologies relevant to your industry and where you want to take your career. Whether it’s artificial intelligence, data analytics, or blockchain, expanding your tech skills can give you a competitive edge.

Online learning: Utilize various online platforms and courses to increase your skills or learn new ones. There are countless online courses, webinars, and tutorials available, offering a wide range of subjects. Even better, many are self-guided, allowing you to learn at your convenience.

UMKC TalentLink offers skills-focused manufacturing training via WorkForge, and a wide range of online courses to build skills in other areas such as project management, grant writing, public speaking, and more.

Certification programs: Consider enrolling in certification programs that are recognized in your field. Certifications not only validate your skills but also make you more attractive to potential employers. For example, UMKC TalentLink offers online training via more than 30 healthcare certification programs via MedCerts.

Internal learning programs: If your organization offers internal learning and development programs, take full advantage. These programs are often tailored to the company’s specific needs and can help you acquire skills directly applicable to your current job or future roles. UMKC TalentLink also works directly with employers to develop tailored development programs to build or add needed skills.

Budget optimization: Maximize opportunities that are built into your team’s budget to attend conferences, workshops, and seminars relevant to your field. These events provide opportunities for networking and staying updated on industry trends. And don’t forget to make the most of your organization’s tuition reimbursement benefits if you opt to pursue a formal degree.

Commit to flexible, future-proofing your skillset so you can show up trained, confident, and ready to hit the ground running in your role. The time for upskilling is always now.