In uncertain economic times, you may hesitate to spend money to
advance your career. But some investments -- of money and time -- can really
pay off.
One of the main ways to invest in your career is through
education.
"Don't think of it as going back to school, which sounds like
you didn't get it right in the first place and doesn't feel good," said
Libby Pannwitt, principal of the Work Life Design Group in San Carlos,
California. Instead, think of it as a way to broaden your knowledge.
Here are three ways to invest in your career through education,
plus three other career investments to consider:
Get a Degree
Complete your bachelor's degree or get a master's degree, MBA or
even a PhD.
"We're looking at global competition," said Patti
Wilson, CEO of CareerCompany.com in Silicon Valley. An advanced degree can help
you get promoted or move between industries.
Some people say workers in the middle or later stages of their
careers won't have time to recoup the cost of an advanced degree. It's a
calculation that may push you toward a program that you can complete while
working. But there are other factors to consider, Wilson said. An advanced
degree can facilitate the move to consulting for an experienced worker, for
example.
Become Certified
Technical fields, project management and human resources are just
some fields in which certifications can help advance a career. Certifications
are generally less time-consuming and expensive than degree programs.
Learn Cross-Cultural Communication Skills
If you're working outside your native country and not speaking
your native language, consider taking classes in accent reduction and American
business etiquette.
How do you know if you need these classes? If you're lucky, your
boss will tell you. But you may simply notice that you're not getting promoted
to positions that require good communication skills.
If you're a native English speaker raised in the US, learning
about the business culture of other countries can help further your career,
Wilson said.
Build Your Brand Online
This requires more time than money, although some services may
cost you.
Own your own domain name and create a Web page to showcase your
work, Wilson said. Keep updated profiles on Facebook, LinkedIn and other social
networking sites. Monitor your online presence so potential employers won't
find anything derogatory about you.
"Being branded online may be on the cutting edge now, but
it's going to be a given in five years," Wilson said.
Find Coaches and Mentors
It's important to have people to help you make critical decisions
in your career.
For some people, a paid career counselor or coach is the best
approach. Others have one or more mentors who offer informal advice. Which
approach is best may depend on how much in-depth help you need.
"Some you pay, and some are free," Wilson said.
Raise Your Professional Profile
Professional associations require both time and money, but they
are a good way to meet people in your industry who work for other companies.
"By serving on a committee or a board, you will gain
valuable, marketable leadership experience to parlay at your next job
interview," Pannwitt said.
