5 Free Resources to Sharpen Your Tech Skills

Technology is the way of the future, and keeping your tech skills sharp is important to staying at the top of the game. From product development and business management to sales and digital marketing, the ability to understand and utilize technology to maximum capacity is what sets you apart in your respective field. Technology is constantly changing, which means you must stay educated on the latest and greatest. Here are 5 FREE resources to help you sharpen your tech skills.

1. Codecademy

Codecademy features free online courses on 12 of the most common programming and markup languages. Whether you are in web developing or data analyzation, Codecademy allows you to choose the educational path that is right for you. The basic courses are all free and offer ample opportunity to either learn from scratch or fine-tune your skills. If you are interested in further education, they suggest a pro-package which offers more quizzes, challenges, and hands-on opportunities for only $19.99/month.

2. EdX

EdX is a free online resource for those looking to hone their tech schools. Choose from a selection of courses that include videos, interactive lessons, tutorials, the ability to interact with fellow students, and much more. The really neat thing about this educational site is that some of the courses are from high-profile schools such as Harvard and MIT. You can even obtain certificates for completing courses and, depending on the school, may count as college credit.

3. Online Learning Courses from Harvard

What if you could take Harvard courses…for free? Sounds great, right! Harvard offers courses on just about any tech subject you could want to learn. The reason is that the institution wants everyone to have access to educational material, regardless of whether they have the means of pursuing a formal education. This is a great opportunity if you want to advance your tech skills using resources from one of the most prestigious schools in the country!

4. CodePen

If you are looking to stay abreast of front-end coding, then CodePen might be for you. It is free learning software that allows you to learn how to code and even build and test your projects. There is an option for additional privacy when building projects if you upgrade to the pro plan.

5. Google Developers Training

At no cost to you, Google offers training in Android development, web development, Firebase, machine learning, and TensorFlow. You can even obtain a Google Developer’s Certification that is recognized industry-wide!

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Tips for Success Series: Learn How to Network

There’s no doubt you’ve heard the popular saying, “It’s who you know.” While qualifications play the largest part in your job hunt, networking is extremely important as well. The more professionals you know in your desired career field:

  • The more job opportunities you will be aware of
  • The more references you will have
  • The more employers you will be able to get your resume in front of

Let’s look at how to network effectively.

Networking is About Building Relationships

First and foremost, it is important to understand that networking is about building relationships. These are two-way relationships that should be seen as long-term professional contacts.

Understand What You Want

Before you begin networking for a job, you need to understand exactly what it is you are looking for.  Consider the following:

  • What position are you ultimately aiming for?
  • How much flexibility do you need in a work schedule?
  • What values are important to you in a company?

Make a List of the People in Your Network

Oftentimes, you know more people than you realize that can help you network to find a job. Take the time to make a list of the people you already know. It is likely the contacts you already know will be able to put you in touch with the people you need.

Speak up at Professional Functions

You can be the most qualified person in the room, but if you don’t say a word, potential employers won’t know that. Many people tend to be reserved by nature, and that’s OK, but you must learn how to start a conversation with industry leaders and company CEOs. You don’t have to give a sales pitch; casual conversation sprinkled with your credentials will do the trick.

Establish Your Knowledge Base

It is important to establish your knowledge of the industry early on in a conversation. Saying fewer words but being correct in what you do say is much better than spouting off a ton of information that is inaccurate. If an employer doesn’t think you understand the industry, there’s not much of a chance for employment.

Ask for Contact Information

It’s important to follow up after you’ve initially met a potential employer. At the end of the conversation, ask for their card or how you can get in touch with them at a later date. In some cases, you may be able to set up a second meeting if there is a current job opening.

Build Your Network With the Leading Staffing Firm in Texas

RESOURCE Staffing has a large database of great clients in need of top talent. When you partner with our top-notch staffing firm, we not only help you apply for jobs, prepare for interviews and fine-tune your resume, you can also expect help building your professional network. Our experienced specialists will help you from start to finish in landing your dream job.