5 Reasons to Consider Retraining

If you already work fulltime, chances are you don't have a lot of time to devote to learning new skills, or updating your old skills. While learning something new can take some additional time and effort, it is usually worthwhile to add some new skills to your resume, and to increase your value to your current employer. Following are 5 reasons you should consider adding additional skills to your repertoire, or retraining to learn something new:

1. Add to your existing skill set. If you are already employed, adding to your existing skills can make you more valuable to your employer. Not only will the additional skills you learn make it likely that you can take on more responsibilities at work, retraining shows that you are constantly evolving and improving as an employee. You can also point out any retraining that you have done when it is time to review your performance. You may be able to justify a raise if you have added significant skills or certifications to your resume.

2. Train for a new job altogether. Whether you simply dislike the career or position you are in, or you are working in an industry that is in decline, you may wish or need to seek additional opportunities. Retraining for a separate career will allow you to learn something new, and allow you to apply for and be qualified to perform a different set of jobs. If you are in an industry that is declining or changing, chances are you will be competing against others from your same field for the same jobs, and retraining can give you an additional advantage.

3. Keep up to date on the latest technology. If you have been out of school for three, five, or even ten years, technology has changed substantially since you graduated. You may need to attend a program or take a course to catch up a bit. By being on top of the latest technology and techniques, you can be sure that you are not missing out on anything. If you work for an employer, they will appreciate you upgrading your skills-and may even pay for the training itself.

4. If you have been laid off, or let go from your last position. Look at a layoff or termination as an opportunity. If you are eligible to receive unemployment benefits, you can use some of your down time to retrain for a new position. It is easy to get stuck in a job, simply because you are accustomed to it. Getting laid off or terminated can give you the push you need to try something new.

5. You sense a layoff is coming. If you are in a declining industry or many employees from your company have been laid off, be proactive and start retraining now. If you do not end up getting laud off, you will have increased your skills, and will benefit from the new training. If you do end up getting laid off, then you will have a significant head start on finding another job.