Have you found your dream job? Some people find out early in life what they want to do for the rest of their lives and chase that dream. According to a previous study of 2,000 Americans, around four in 10 — 43% — were fulfilling their childhood career dream, and another 19% had previously held their dream profession. However, having your dream career or a job you enjoy might not be enough if you want upward career mobility and continuous learning online education opportunities. You might grow weary in a dream job if you dread doing the same old thing day after day, month after month, and year after year.
That’s where online learning comes into play. According to one source, almost eight in 10 academic leaders believe online learning is as good as or better than traditional learning. It adds that approximately 70% of corporate training will be done through e-learning this year and that e-learning can help learners hold on to between 25% and 60% more information than traditional learning. So, online learning might be just what you need to advance your career.
Consider these five benefits of online education: learning new skills and advancing in the workforce.
1. Flexibility
One of the benefits of online learning is flexibility. You don’t have to commit to a specific schedule, go to a school, and put everyone and everything else on the back burner indefinitely.
Online education means you can set your schedule and learn from home or anywhere else. You can set your schedule, work at your own pace, and ensure you balance things so you have time for your school work, family, and job.
2. Accessibility
Another reason online education can help you further your career is the accessibility factor. All you need is a computer and high-speed internet access to take courses from institutions at home and abroad, and you can do this regardless of where you reside.
3. Skill Enhancement
You can also add to your skill set through online education. Depending on the field you’re in or want to get into, certain skills are in high demand. Focusing on learning such skills can help you get ahead in your career or branch out into something else entirely.
One thing to consider if looking at other career options is the trades. Forbes notes that Americans should consider the trades if they want a potentially rewarding and lucrative career change. If open to such a career opportunity, you can enroll for same-day certification to operate a forklift. It’s one option to earn new skills and obtain recognized certifications that can land you a job sooner rather than later.
4. Networking Opportunities
Online learning opportunities can also lead to networking opportunities that might help you land your next job.
Many online programs include group discussions and projects, which is the perfect way to expand your network and perhaps make some good friends, too. You never know where your next job lead will come from.
5. Keep Your Job
Another benefit of online education is that you can keep your day job and fit your schooling around your life. It might otherwise be difficult to take time off work to return to school or work full-time and then go to a school campus after work. Online learning means you can work from wherever you want — at whatever time you want.
If you’re employed but wish to advance in your career, these are five reasons online education makes sense. You can do it your way and come out ahead in the end.
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