Admit it: We all get into career ruts from time to time. After you've been in a certain industry or position for awhile and you know your job inside and out, it's easy to get comfortable. Maybe you're happy with just doing your everyday tasks, and the thought of re-training or going back to school sounds like too much effort.
But with the popularity of online classes spreading like wildfire, you’ve got no excuses. It’s time to go back to school to advance your career, and this is why:
Online Learning Fits Your Schedule
Back in the days of campus-only learning, it really was hard to go back to school. There was no way your boss was going to let you leave work at noon to attend a lecture for your MBA class. And, let's face it, night and weekend classes take up a lot of time. If you were someone juggling work, long commutes, and family, it often wasn't feasible.
Today, online classes allow you to go to class when and where you want to. Although it’s just as rigorous as going to an on-campus class, you can do it from your kitchen table, your backyard hammock, or your local library. Because the "when" and "how" is completely up to you; you can earn your degree in a way that truly fits your lifestyle.
You Need to Secure Your Position
Ask yourself this: How current are you on the trends in your field? Is your job knowledge becoming dated? Do you have what it takes to keep your company at the forefront of your industry?
If you hesitated to answer any of these questions, you should think about going back to school. In today's uncertain job market, you want to make sure you have all the skills you need to stay employed.
- If you're in marketing or PR, that may mean taking online classes in social media.
- If you're in construction, that may mean getting a professional certification in "green" building.
- If you're in business, it may mean going back to school for your MBA.
It's not just about job skills either; a study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) showed that the unemployment rate for people with master’s degrees was 3.9 %, while the rate for those with a high school diploma was 9.7 %. In other words, the more education you have, the more employable you become.
You Want a Promotion
If you've been eyeing a particular position or title, it may be time to go back to school to get the extra knowledge you need to move forward. While performance and tenure have an impact on promotions, there are some positions that are unreachable without additional schooling. If you're working in a hospital, for example, and you really want to get to the upper management level, a master's degree can really help you break through that glass ceiling. And if you're willing to take online classes to work toward the degree you need, your employer may even help you pay for it.
Another Degree Can Lead to a Raise
Just as another degree can lead to a promotion, it can also have a major effect on your paycheck. According to the BLS study, those with a master's degree take home (on average) $1,257 each week, more than double the $626 an average high school graduate gets in their weekly paycheck. That’s right: You could double your salary by going back to school and furthering your education.
Have you taken a college class online to help boost your career? Tell us about your experience.
About the author: Noël Rozny writes and edits the career and education blog, myPathfinder, for myFootpath, a career and education resource for students of all ages. She also maintains the company’s social media outlets and is passionate about using these technologies to help students and job seekers find the degree program or career that’s right for them. You can find her on Twitter at @myfootpath or @noelrozny.
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This is all lies. No matter how much eductation you have, employers do not care.
I have BA MBA and no one whats to believe in my education. I have been declined for hiring and they refuse to accept refernce from my professors or from my school.
It is a waste of monies!
I would have to disagree with Geeorge (?) I am in my mid-50's, a recent widow and have been thinking of taking online classes in Medical Administration.
Most of my working career has been either in the Administrative Assistant capacity or Customer Service type of work.
While still in the early stages of deciding, one thing for me, is it would be a perfect time, since I am not working. I can't help but feel it could/would only enhance my prospects of the type of job and salary I would like to have. Oh, and just a suggestion to Geeorge (?)....is it George? And, with a BA MBA you have, maybe a course in spelling might get that job you're looking for....just a thought.
George may not know how to spell (whats/wants), but he is not far from wrong. Additional education is very good IF you are young enough to use it. I returned to a Division I university for a second degree and graduated second in my class. Because I'am 60 years of age no one company will take my interests and skills seriously. It looks like I must retire early in this Obama economy.
George--I am so sorry to hear that you've been having that experience. One suggestion for you: have you asked these future employers why they are rejecting your references and degrees? It might be helpful for you to get some additional feedback in regards to why they are not giving you credit for what you have worked for.
Cindy, That's great to hear! As you mentioned, since you are out of work and are thinking about making a career change, going back to school is a great option as this point. And the health care field is always a great one to explore, especially now. If you're looking for some additional information on medical administration, you can visit this page: http://www.myfootpath.com/career-profiles/medical-administrative-assistant/
Steven--I am surprised and saddened to hear this, as age discrimination is not something that should be seen or allowed during the hiring process.
Yes, degrees help and are necessary in most cases. Additional education helps. But one thing people forget is that some companies look for a certain personality-one that can be formed to what they want or one that is just perfect for their needs. Or they look for someone who fits into their group-same sort of work style, likes, hobbies, etc. (This creates a cohesive team). Another thing that some companies like is referrals. The "who you know" factor. So-network with people. Get involved in the community. Volunteer your time in an area of your expertise. Use your knowledge to benefit someone or a cause. You will be surprised with whom you will meet. And, lastly, you need to get out of your comfort zone and TALK TO PEOPLE. Ask them about themselves or their opinion about how they would go about doing something. Telling people that you are looking for a job is not a shameful thing. I have found a job by doing this. I hope this long blah blah helps someone! God bless you!