The New Year always makes me think about goals and the things I want to accomplish. Based on today’s reader note, I’m not the only person who thinks that way.
Hi, I’m an HR professional living in India. I want to learn new things in human resources but my only option is online study because I can’t relocate. What can I learn and do for my career?
Whether you can’t or don’t want to relocate, there are plenty of online resources you can use to keep your professional knowledge current. Here are a few that I use regularly.
- Certification. If you’re a generalist, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers a certification credential. Online certification study prep courses are available. And ICYMI, SHRM recently announced that their certification was accredited by The Buros Center. You can also pursue a credential in a specialist area like learning and performance. The Association for Talent Development (ATD) offers a certification for training professionals.
- Read blogs. Many print publications, like Harvard Business Review, have blogs. In addition, I would suggest reading the views of individual bloggers. Here’s a recent list of 75+ HR blogs – I liked that they offer a download of the information. Find a RSS (real simple syndication) reader and make it part of your daily routine. Personally, I love to read while walking at my treadmill desk – education and exercise at the same time.
- Read books. Speaking of reading, books are another way to gain knowledge and stay on top of what’s happening in HR. You can get books in your preferred medium – hardcopy or online. The SHRM blog published a list of best-sellers from their annual volunteer leadership summit. Also, SilkRoad technology hosts a business book club. It’s a nice way to not only read the book, but have a discussion with others about the content.
- Listen to a podcast. I understand that reading isn’t everyone’s cuppa tea. Some prefer to listen to books. Or subscribe to a podcast. Ultimate Software did an 8-show series called #PeopleFirstPodcast, focused on HR in the digital world. If you’re looking for a more regular program, check out HR Latte, hosted by Rayanne Thorn of Dovetail Software.
- Participate in a Twitter Chat. HR professionals need to have a presence on social media. You don’t have to use every social platform, but some have unique features that are worth exploring. Like Twitter Chats. SHRM #NextChat is a very popular one, held on Wednesdays at 3p Eastern. Kronos is co-hosting the one on January 4, 2017 on the topic of #WorkEngaged.
- Learn a new word. All of these activities will probably expose you to some new words and concepts. For instance, I just learned about the acronym SCARF. Don’t skip over those new concepts when they are presented. Use them as opportunities to search for more information. There’s a new feature on Steve Boese’s HR Technology blog called “Learn a New Word” that I’m really enjoying for that very reason.
These are a few things you can do using the incredible amount of information on the internet. I wouldn’t suggest trying them all at the same time. That might be too much. But pick one or two, try them for a month, then evaluate whether to keep them in your routine or try another one.
What online resources do you use to stay current? Share yours in the comments!
Image captured by Sharlyn Lauby using her favorite iPhone technology after speaking in Delhi, India
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Garrett O'Brien says
Cannot reiterate enough the reading books suggestion — I did see a study that those who did read books, especially a variety, tended to have an increased and effective discernment level over those that did not. That matters when you’re part of a team and decisions are needed often — which is a scenario that is slowly being seen everywhere as well as has been seeing an increase in occurrences as well. Goes along with the rate of change with everything.
Another tip some don’t think about and it can give you some residual income if you know how to play your cards right. This is especially true with any work, like writing or an app, that can be easily redistributed (just be sure you own the rights). This option isn’t for everybody, particularly if your schedule already has 30 hr days in it and this option works best if you keep a mindset it is for the long run.
7. Take On Some Online Work — At the start, don’t take anything beyond your own level, but as you build clients they will turn to you first. If they hand you something that is a tick or two above your level, be honest. Your reputation with them will carry some collateral and they most likely will give you the task. Just be sure to ask for assistance if hitting a wall, both online as well as with the client.
Sharlyn Lauby says
Hi Garrett. Thanks for sharing. #7 is a great suggestion. I know a couple of people who have volunteered to be the webmaster for an organization to learn more about technology.