In his book The Coaching Manager: Developing Top Talent in Business, Joseph Weintraub talks about the need to constantly look for chances to improve ourselves and how education is beneficial to management executives. It goes without saying that managers need to continually hone and enhance their soft skills, but where exactly can you improve your skill-set while still having time to deal with your managerial responsibilities? Below you will find a list of online tools to improve your skillset across a wide array of interests.
Adobe
Adobe is a familiar name in the business world and the company offers several online tools that teach you how to better use the cadre of Adobe products. Having a better understanding of how to use these tools will greatly improve your skill-set.
Datamonkey
If you are interested in expanding your ability to work with SQL and Excel for the purposes of data analysis, this is where you want to go. You learn by being fully immersed in the process and come away from the experience with a deeper understanding of how to use data analysis tools.
Coursera
Just because you already have degrees does not mean that you cannot continue taking education courses. Coursera offers access to a broad range of online courses from some of the world’s top universities. Being able to take these courses without being enrolled as a full-time student is a great tool for improving your skill-set from the comfort of wherever the job takes you.
Highbrow
If you prefer to get your course content in bite-size emails, then consider taking courses with Highbrow. These manageable bits of information come on a daily basis and give you a chance to spend a few minutes expanding your knowledge of whatever topic best suits your professional or personal needs.
Duolingo
In today’s global world, speaking multiple languages is a wonderful way to advance your career. Duolingo offers top-notch online language learning, designed to increase your confidence in speaking. This online platform comes with a variety of motivation tools to keep you on track and your goals clearly defined.
Memrise
Memrise also focuses on language acquisition, though this platform focuses on the use of flashcards to help you learn your new language or improve existing soft skills. The offer world-class content in over 200 languages; no matter what language you want to speak, Memrise can help you do it.
Ted-Ed
Ted offers a vast library of educational videos on every topic under the sun. These videos can help you delve into any topic you choose to broaden your understanding of the subject matter. Often funny, always informative and motivational, Ted-Ed is a very handy tool for those serious about learning.
Chesscademy
Learning skills not directly related to work can still have a big effect on your skills on the job. Chess, for example, hones your ability to think ahead and analytically. Chesscademy is a great online resource for those interested in learning this exceptional game.
Pianu
Likewise, learning to read music and play an instrument can expand your mind in ways that will have positive effects on other aspects of your life. Pianu is an interactive online learning platform that teaches even the newest student to music how to play the piano in a fun, engaging manner.
Learn what interests you
As a manager, you should learn to develop your personal leadership style, but you can also set an example for your team by continuing to improve your skill-set. Focus on the things that interest you, watch as your hard and soft skills grow and your career advances.
