7 Practical Ways to Upskill in Tech

You may have heard that one of the best ways to land a new role is to upskill. It seems to be everywhere but what does this actually mean? Upskilling is essentially what it says on the tin. It’s the process of improving up and acquiring new skills that are relevant to today (but also the future). And whilst you can upskill in pretty much any sector, you can never go wrong with transforming your digital competencies.

But in today’s tech world, what are some practical ways to upskill and stay relevant? As always, hackajob has got you covered with seven of our recommended methods to upskilling, and making sure you continue to stand out – whether you’re actively job hunting or just trying to keep your resumé fresh. Check it all out below:

1. Coding bootcamps (and finishing them!)

This might go without saying, but we're still going to say it. Coding bootcamps are a great way to upskill. Not only do you get to learn new and relevant coding techniques, but you also are part of a community who can support each other. Learn fundamental tools from experts with real-life experiences.

Benefits: Intensive courses are just weeks long (rather than years), meaning you could start a new chapter in your career quicker than you'd think

Best for: Those new to the world of developing and grads

2. Look sideways to online courses

Not quite a bootcamp, but still incredibly helpful, courses are an invaluable resource to anyone looking to further their skills. Aimed at a variety of levels, you can take refresher courses to revive your memory on certain programming skills, learn something entirely new or develop even further. What's more is that as courses can be taught by individuals or schools, there a whole host of interesting ways to learn more.

Check out:

• Udemy
• Coursera

Benefits: Find particular courses to enhance skills your may already have. For example deepening your understanding of Java Concurrency rather than Java as a whole

Best for: Those who want to improve upon a skill in particular (niche) as opposed to generic.

3. Attend webinars

Webinars are a win-win situation. You get live interaction whilst being able to

If you're interested in webinars with tech companies that you'll love, then sign up to our newsletter here to be in the know for our next events. We've recently had events with Discovery, Sainsbury's, Bumble, Raytheon and many more.

Benefits: Get your questions answered live

Best for: Those who are busy and cannot attend in-person events, who enjoy discussions

4. Listen to podcasts

Community is one of the best ways to hear about new developments in tech, but have you ever realised how other people's opinions and knowledge can inform your own? If you've ever wondered how to hack text processors or what new updates in JavaScript ES6 or even how to navigate Apple's new app privacy settings, you'd love a podcast.

Benefits: Keep up-to-date with what's going on in your tech circle including the latest releases and secret hacks

Best for: Those on the go and those who enjoy hearing the opinions and news of other people in their community

5. Personal projects

What's that one project you've always wanted to get started on? Start it. No, we're not kidding! The best thing about a personal project is that you get to do it on your own terms. You get to set the method, style, budget and more. And what's more, not only are you demonstrating initiative but you can strengthen your CV with this too.

And the best bit about this? Even if it's unfinished, you can still bring it up as a passion project that keeps you busy.

Benefits: Keep those neurons firing, as there's never a dull moment when it's a personal project. Humble brag in your next interview.

Best for: Those seeking new roles; it's a great way to show what you can do and what you enjoy.

6. Contributing to open source projects

There's no I in Team...or however the saying goes and the same applies to open-source contributing. Designed to be openly accessible and used by anyone, it's a great way to collaborate with some great minds and bond with the community.

Benefits: Learn from others and help others

Best for: Those seeking community or showing off their new skills

7. Reading

If you’ve ever had to write a paper, you’d understand why wider reading is so crucial. It's the same with software development and engineering. How will you ever improve if you don't know what's out there? Whether it's current tech news or even the history of how certain tech trends came to be, you can learn a lot from read.

Benefits: You can come across hidden gems, hacks, insightful tips and way more just by reading.

Best for: As there's a plethora of things to read, we'd say it's best for everyone

Conclusion

And that's it – seven great ways for you to actually upskill. So what are you waiting for? Get stuck in today and improve your skills in no time.

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