Hays encourages professional learning over the coming break

With the holidays approaching and many employees receiving some much-needed R&R, some may be wishing to use the break to boost their skills.

Hays released a statement which encourages workers to use their free time to engage with some of their free online courses.

Hays Australia and New Zealand’s managing director, Nick Deligiannis, says the Christmas break is prime time to better your occupational prowess: “The Christmas and New Year period is an opportune time to invest in yourself and your career.

“From learning new technical skills to advancing your soft skills and digital skills, continuous learning keeps you employable and helps future-proof your career. Upskilling at this time of year can also help you achieve your New Year’s career resolutions.”

Hays listed its top six picks for their free online learning courses that can increase your workplace knowledge:

1. Microsoft Excel in 30 minutes
2. Business communication skills
3. Structured problem solving
4. Communicating under pressure
5. Data analysis
6. Verbal communication skills for the workplace

Mr Deligiannis continued: “We know there’s a learning disconnect between what professionals need and employers offer. At the same time, employers value job candidates who drive their own learning agenda. So, if you upskill over the holiday period, make sure you update your CV and LinkedIn profile to showcase your continuous learning mindset and your new skills.”

Hays offers plenty of courses on its website, such as Microsoft Office training, survey development, digital marketing introductions and project management, to name a few.

Upskilled discussed the benefits of providing staff with online training. With plenty of free courses available, it’s a cost-effective way to boost employee potential.

Upskilled listed seven benefits as follows:

1. Employees get access to real-time feedback.
2. Employees have ongoing access to learning resources.
3. Employees get a safe environment for learning.
4. Employees experience greater job confidence.
5. Helps keep employees’ industry knowledge current.
6. Provides consistent skills to your workforce.
7. Fits the lifestyle of your employees.

LinkedIn Learning is another platform that line managers could consider directing their employees towards for learning and development over the coming holidays.