It isn’t all colored lights and tasty sweets this time of year. For many of us, looking forward into 2017 is an important part of our professional development. One aspect you can control in regards to your marketability as a candidate or to encourage development in your current job is continued education. So what educational goals should you be setting for 2017? Here are some things to consider to expand your knowledge and advance your careers.

1. Read a book a month. Your education goals don’t have to be as expensive as enrolling in your local community college. You can start small by challenging yourself to read a book a month. Just out is the new book by Tim Farris called Tools of Titans. Other books about entrepreneurs, innovators, and self-improvement concepts can expand your mind and give you new ideas to enhance your career.
2. Enroll in free online courses. Another less expensive option is to enroll in free online courses from a number of schools. These may not lead to a degree, but they can help you learn new skills. Learn coding from Codecademy. Access MIT course material for free. Udemy is an online learning tool designed for working professionals. It isn’t free, but it isn’t a huge expense.
3. Take an enrichment class. Your continued education doesn’t have to be specifically geared toward your job. Learning a new skill just because you want to can also have wide-reaching benefits that can impact your career. It can also help you achieve a better work/life balance by allowing you to focus on something important outside of work.
4. Get certified in your industry. If you want to take your career to the next level, consider getting a certification. Whether you specialize in information technology or finance, there are dozens of possible certifications that employers look for when hiring new staff. Look into what makes the most sense with your ultimate career goals and enroll in courses today.
5. Learn a new language. Lastly, learning a new language will only increase your marketability and engage you with the community at large. Spanish is becoming increasingly more important in many communities, so why not expand your horizon by starting with a beginning Spanish course. You may be interested in Mandarin or American Sign Language. Whatever the case, take a class with your local continuing education facility.

What are your career goals in 2017? We have recruiting offices located in Phoenix, Denver, Los Angeles and Orange County, so call us to learn more!