No matter how much you use technology, there’s always something new to learn and skills to build.
If you spend a lot of time on your computer, tablet, or smartphone, or if technology is a major part of your work, then it’s even more important to boost your skills. Programming skills, web development, and cybersecurity are all highly sought-after skills, but so are everyday tech skills, like email management, spreadsheets, and video conferencing.
Read on for a few ideas about how to boost your tech skills, no matter which level you are at.
1. Take Classes
You can build your tech skills by taking some classes in areas that interest you, ranging from basic computer literacy to advanced software development.
There are plenty of courses available online. Some are free courses and only for personal enrichment, while others offer 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. Or, check with your local community college or community center for opportunities to learn about the latest technology.
2. Read Technology Books
There are plenty of books about technology you can read 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 by 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 everything 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. Watching someone do something is helpful, but you also need to be able to do it yourself.
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
You could try building a computer to increase your knowledge of technology hardware. 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; otherwise, it could be expensive and frustrating.
6. Associate With Experts
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 to solve problems beyond your ability.
7. Join Communities and Forums
Learning from your peers and getting their advice is a great way to boost your skills. Chances are good that someone else has experienced the same issue you are trying to solve or can suggest great resources to troubleshoot.
8. Listen to Podcasts
Listening to podcasts on your chosen topic is a great way to utilize your commute or workouts to absorb new information. You can learn directly from industry leaders and the people behind the tech.
9. Personal Projects
Personal projects are the perfect way to learn by doing. Building a website, for example, will teach you how to navigate WordPress, learn about HTML and basic coding, and how to optimize for search engines (SEO). Designing your own video game will teach you how to use development platforms and write scripts and about game design principles.
These projects also look great on your portfolio or resume if you are trying to make a career out of it.
10. Play Games
It’s true! Playing games can improve your tech skills. Plenty of (usually free) interactive games will teach you about programming, algorithms, problem-solving, CSS, and more. There are also computer-building simulation games.
11. Daily Challenges
Websites like Codewars and LeetCode offer daily challenges to keep skills sharp. It’s a great motivator, too, to be part of a challenge while also earning honors and ranking up.
But you can also set your own challenges. For example, you can decide to solve a new coding problem, learn a new keyboard shortcut, or read for 30 minutes each day on the subject.
12. Keep Practicing
Set aside time every day or every week to work on your tech skills and personal projects. It’s the absolute best way to improve your skills and add new ones to your repertoire. It also means that these skills are up to date. Unfortunately, knowing Microsoft Office 2003 or Windows Movie Maker won’t help you very much today.
You Need Tech Skills
Virtually every career path uses some sort of technology, but even navigating day-to-day life requires some knowledge, thanks to smartphones, online booking, and email. Technology is here to stay, so it’s time to boost your tech skills.
Amanda Kay, the founder of My Life, I Guess, provides valuable career advice and support for anyone striving to make a living and, more importantly, make a life. Whether it's navigating job searches, learning new skills, overcoming unemployment, or dealing with debt, My Life, I Guess has been a go-to resource for career guidance and financial stability since 2013. Amanda's expertise and relatable approach have been featured in trusted publications such as MSN, Credit.com, Yahoo! Finance, the Ladders and Fairygodboss.