No matter how much you use technology, there’s always something new to learn and skills to build.
If you spend lots of time on your computer, tablet, or smartphone or if technology is a major part of your work, then it’s even more important for your to boost your skills.
Read on for a few ideas about how to do that.
1. Take Classes
You can build your tech skills by taking some classes in areas that interest you. There are plenty of courses available online. Some are free and only for personal enrichment. Others come with a certificate.
You might even decide to go back for a degree in technology if you think that would further your career. These, too, are often available online. Alternatively, check with your local community college or community center for learning opportunities in technology.
Related: 30 Places to Learn New Job Skills for FREE!
2. Read Technology Books
Even if you don’t take any classes, you can read plenty of books about technology to boost your skills. Your local library is probably filled with them, and you can order titles not available on the shelves.
You might also start your own technology library focusing on your particular devices, tasks or needs.
Unless you’re already a technology expert, start with basic books and work up to more complex topics. See if you can get a friend to read along with you so that you have someone to discuss with.
3. Watch Tutorials
Maybe you aren’t much of a reader. In that case, focus your attention on video tutorials online. Do a simple search for a specific topic, task or problem. You’ll probably come up with several video options. Watch a couple. If you like the presenter, move on to other videos in the series. As with books, start at a low level and build up over time. Don’t neglect to try the methods taught either.
4. Work With Software
Another way to build your technology skills is to work with a wide variety of software. Try different operating systems, for instance, and really learn how they work. You might delve into Linux or go deeper into Windows or the Mac OS.
Also, don’t hesitate to sample helpful software. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to do this. Open-source options are available for many applications these days. The more you experiment with them, the more you’ll learn. You might even decide to try some simple coding and writing software for yourself.
5. Build a Computer
To increase your knowledge of technology hardware, you could try your hand at building a computer. Be sure to do plenty of research before you start so that you know exactly what you need and how to put it together. Work with a tech-savvy friend on this one.
Related: 9 Tech Jobs You Can Get Without Knowing How To Code
6. Associate With Experts
In fact, you should associate with tech experts whenever you can. Ask them plenty of questions, and learn from them. When you run into tech troubles that your skills can’t quite handle, you can turn to them for help or reach out to a company like AnyTech365 to solve problems beyond your ability.
Technology is here to stay, so if you use it a lot, then it’s time to boost your technology skills. Get started today!
Amanda Kay, an Employment Specialist and founder of My Life, I Guess, strives to keep the "person" in personal finance by writing about money, mistakes, and making a living. She focuses on what it’s like being in debt, living paycheck to paycheck, and surviving unemployment while also offering advice and support for others in similar situations - including a FREE library of career & job search resources.