GET TO THE HEAD OF THE CLASS IN YOUR COMPANY

It's a fact: the higher the level of your education, the higher your income. Beyond that, the more skills you possess, the more valuable you are in the workplace. So, when you combine a higher education with a solid set of skills, you don't just end up with a more secure, better paying job, you end up with a career.

If you think you're too old, that you missed your chance to get an education, think again. Across America, people are beginning new careers, learning new skills, and completing their education. Whether you want to compete better in the job market or move up in your company, when it comes to self-improvement you have more choices than ever before.

To Determine What Skills You Need, Analyze What Skills You Have, And What Employers Are Looking For.

A personal "audit" or "inventory" is the best place to start when pursuing new skills or a degree. What skills do you possess? What are your strengths? Your weaknesses? How could you improve? And, you should evaluate your answers by taking into account the skills employers want.

Researchers at the University of Birmingham, England asked employers what skills they value most in employees. Here is the list they assembled, and you should consider:

• Analytical and problem solving skills
• Business awareness
• Client, customer and interpersonal skills
• Creativity and innovation
• Developing others
• Leadership and teamwork
• Oral and written communication skills
• Planning and time management skills
• Self-development, continued learning and career management skills
• Technology skills

Once You Determine The Skills You Need, The Next Step Is To Acquire Them.

Today, there are more options than ever when it comes to self-improvement, obtaining skills and continuing your education. Here are some options...

Look into classes at vocational, trade or technology schools in your area or online. Because technology keeps changing, there is a constant demand for people with high-tech skills. The key is to stay current as changes occur.

If you didn't graduate high school, obtain a GED (General Educational Development) credential. According to the GED Testing Service, more than 860,000 adults worldwide take the GED test annually. And, more than 95% of employers consider GED graduates the same as traditional high school graduates in regards to hiring and salary.

If you didn't finish college, look into Degree Completion Programs (DCP) available at most colleges and universities - and online. And, be sure to explore FAFSA (the Free Application for Federal Student Financial Aid), it could be your key to a grant or low interest loan.

Finally, one of the best ways to acquire skills is on the job. Find mentors who will pass on their experience. Volunteer for assignments that test you and expand your knowledge base. Network with others in your industry. Read trade publications. Above all, set goals for yourself and create a timetable. In effect, develop a plan to succeed.

Remember, we offer all kinds of business tools that can help.