You’ve got the job you’ve been working towards for a long time. The sense of achievement is a great feeling and well deserved. But why stop there?
It can be easy to rest on your laurels, especially once years of study, training and experience have come together to get you where you are. But you should always set yourself new goals, so you have a target and something to work towards. Otherwise, things can become a bit stale and the wrong questions start to be asked.
Self-development is important to all of us, and we can work on this in the workplace. But if you really want to fast-track your career, continuing to educate yourself is key for a number of reasons, and here’s why;.
Standing out from the crowd
Studying whilst in employment, or even in your own time if currently out of work, displays a real commitment and drive that is invaluable to employers. Imagine you are a manager and one of your staff members is studying off their own back to improve their skills, which ultimately will help the business. Who wouldn’t be impressed with this?
Hone your skills
The qualifications gained from your education as a child and a young adult are the foundation of your CV, but as we all know, the job market is competitive, so gaining qualifications that are specifically geared towards the job are a perfect addition.
Opening new doors
Whilst studying, you will meet fellow practising or prospective administrators and assistants, all with different ideas. The tutors should know a thing or two as well!
This form of networking can be invaluable, offering new perspectives on the day-to-day tasks, right the way through to career paths and new opportunities. The discussions will give you fresh ideas and build on your knowledge and aspirations.
Work Efficiency
Is there a faster way to produce those reports? Are you organising business trips effectively? Are you making the most of your IT programs?
All the skills that you will learn can be directly applied in the workplace whilst you study. You will improve upon skills such as time management, organisational skills and overall efficiency in your role.
Keep your skills up to date
The Admin and PA sectors have evolved and grown exponentially in the last 20 years. The required skills associated with these roles are just the same, especially with IT which never stands still. Keep yourself at the front of the queue by updating those skills.
Career progression
If you are going to advance your career, you need to keep working on that CV. You may have the experience, but certifying these skills will add weight. There are also many different levels that you can study at, so no matter if you are just starting out or have been in the role for years, there will always be an appropriate option for you to help move your career forward.
Along with all of this, you will of course feel good about yourself, and the sense of achievement and pride will really build your confidence.
Simon Scaysbrook
Simon is the Education Manager for Lewis Secretarial College, an online distance learning college based in the UK. The college has over 30 years of experience in training Administrators, PAs and Medical Secretaries. They offer a range of qualifications at varying levels which are certificated by two recognised UK Accreditation Boards.