The New Year is a logical time to reassess your life and career goals – and take the necessary steps to achieve real change.

If you are in a rut at work or still procrastinating over your dream job, now is the chance to re-evaluate and do something you really love. The good news is that flexible, affordable online study options mean you can start a relevant course immediately and set yourself up for 2017 and beyond. Here are some resolutions to consider.

 

1. I resolve to … take time to think about my career direction

What job would you do if money and other considerations were not a factor? The New Year holiday break gives you a chance to sit back and think about your career and what job really appeals to you. Are there certain industries or roles that pique your interest whenever you read about them? Or perhaps there is a desirable job in your present company that you could do if you upgraded your skills. Allocating time to weigh up your job options is the first step towards pursuing a rewarding career. So stop and think.

 

2. I resolve to … do my homework when assessing study options

Landing a coveted role usually requires some soul-searching and research. Are my skills up to date? Are they relevant for the job I really want? An honest appraisal of such questions will help you weigh up the course or courses you need to do to ensure your résumé stands out. Some jobs will require a university degree, but increasingly people are finding that completing a reputable online course is the key to quickly and cost-effectively improving their knowledge and skills. There are many online study options, but make sure they tick the box in key areas such as administrative and technology support; flexibility with course and assignment deadlines; and around-the-clock access to tutors.

 

3. I resolve to … choose a course that meets the needs of employers

When determining an online course, check that the education provider has a reputation for delivering industry-approved courses. If you are going to spend time studying, it is important that the course and skills resonate with future bosses.

So be clear about what you want to get out of the course. Some jobs simply require certain skill-sets, while others will be linked to a certificate course that applicants must pass. Knowing exactly what you want to achieve will also help you stay motivated as you study.

 

4. I resolve to … achieve balance between my life and career ambitions

Successfully juggling commitments to work, study, family and friends is the key to a happy and successful life. As you prepare to fast-track your career, take advantage of the flexibility of online courses. You can enrol online and study at your own pace while balancing other commitments in your life. Select an online education provider that lets you submit assignments when it suits you and gives you choice around graduation timelines. But remember that online courses are a convenient option, not an easy option. You need to make a commitment to your course and assignments, safe in the knowledge that ramping up your skills is likely to pay off in the form of a more fulfilling future career.

 

For more details on the great range of courses at Australian Online Courses, visit australianonlinecourses.com.au