The Covid-19 pandemic and ensuing disruption to businesses and industries around the country has led many to rethink their careers and future plans. Among those who may be considering changing industry or upskilling are retail professionals, some of whom may be on reduced hours or on the Pandemic Unemployment Payment.
Since the onset of the pandemic, consumer preferences have shifted, as well as shopping patterns, with most retailers forced to close their doors and move their businesses online, even if temporarily.
Some retail workers will now be working in new roles within their companies, and may be wondering how to adapt to their new conditions.
Whether you are looking to climb the career ladder at your current company, or are on the hunt for a new challenge, “upskilling” may hold the key to success. Learning new skills throughout your professional life is now seen as essential to career progression, but what is the best way to start? And what new skills are right for you and your career path?
Thankfully, there are lots of opportunities for upskilling either in an informal or formal setting. From night courses and part-time Diplomas to taking more responsibility in your current position, there are lots of options available. Because of this, it’s worth taking the time to figure out which options are best for you first.
One other thing to consider is how beneficial upskilling or reskilling is for employment opportunities, as they can allow you to stand out from the crowd of other applicants.
Start by finding out what skills you want or need
Of course, learning Italian or Japanese may always have been an ambition, but will it have any practical effect on your career progression or job opportunities? A good way of assessing which skills would benefit you is to look at current openings in roles you are interested in, and checking the responsibilities, duties or skills required for the role.
You may need leadership skills for your dream role, but haven’t yet had the opportunity to develop these skills in the workplace. If you have a gap in your CV for the job you want, upskilling can fill that gap.
If you would like to continue working in retail and are concerned you don’t have the digital skills for an increasingly online environment, there are a range of IT courses, web design diplomas, and marketing courses available for you to upskill.
Nurture your soft skills
You may find opportunities for upskilling in your current role, by simply showing initiative and accepting additional responsibilities. Are there projects that you can manage or contribute to, that will see you build your project management or collaborative skills? Or perhaps you can gain some experience dealing with customers more than you currently do?
You can also speak to your employer about skills gaps you may have, and if there are opportunities to work on those skills with certain tasks or responsibilities in your current role.
Outside of work, why not volunteer with a local charity or sports club to gain experience in certain areas?
Training and courses
Courses & Diplomas can give you the opportunity to gain new hard and soft skills, from IT & Tech courses to Management & Leadership Diplomas. Practical and career-focused courses can help you upskill for particular roles and give you the skills and experience you need for your chosen career path.
A short course may give you what you need, but there are also lots of Certificates and Accredited Diplomas that will make your CV stand out, and more importantly help you to gain the skills you will need.
If you are unsure about your own career progression or the skills you need for the job you want, why not get in touch with us at Pitman Training to see what course or diploma could work for you? Our Course Advisors are available for career consultations with no obligation, to help you find the right opportunities for you.
To get in touch or to arrange an appointment, call 1800 532 632 or enquire via our website!
