Are you someone who likes to learn new things? If you want to keep up with our constantly changing world, nothing is better than continuous learning. Maybe you are working very hard to land an interview for your dream job. Perhaps, you are working day-in and day-out to put together a mind-blowing college application that no review panel can ignore. Whatever the case, your resume will play a huge role.
A resume is not just a document. It is your frontline defence that will make you stand out and convince recruiters to call you for an interview. These days, recruiters and admissions panels are increasingly looking for evidence of continued learning, so you want to demonstrate this on your resume.
Why Should You Add Short Courses to Your Resume?
In most cases, a resume shouldn’t be more than two pages long. You have a lot to put into your resume, and given the space constraint, you’re probably wondering if you should really list the short courses you’ve taken?
Yes, you absolutely should.
These days, with stiff competition for job posts and college places, recruiters and admission panels are looking beyond academic qualifications and work experience. They’re looking for candidates who stand out from the crowd.
Short courses not only improve your skills but also show evidence of a continued commitment to learning. And, it’s not just hard skills that they are looking for. Lately, the demand for soft skills has gone through the roof.
10 Short Courses You Can Add to Make Your Resume Stand Out
In our list, you will find courses from different disciplines – there’s something for everyone. We have also added a few soft skills courses to the mix.
- Computer Programming
Even if your job or college major is not even remotely connected to the IT field, this course will benefit you. We are living in the age of technology, and the future is going to be no different. Developing computer programming skills can come in handy in any job.
Some courses can teach you programming languages like Java, C++, Python, and so forth. If you are a beginner, you can try introductory courses on sites like Coursera, Udemy, and EdX.
- Social Media Marketing
This is a course that will look great on any resume. Every organization needs marketing for visibility and social media is where everyone is flocking. Mastering this skill makes you an ideal candidate for any job.
Alternatively, you will find courses such as Marketing in the Digital World, Internet Marketing, or Digital Marketing which are all equally viable options.
- Blockchain
If you’ve been following the news, you would’ve seen these terms making a splash: Cryptocurrency, Bitcoins, Blockchain. For all you know, cryptocurrency might be the future of transaction, so it’s a good idea to learn about Blockchain while it’s still developing. Plenty of courses teach about Blockchain and Cryptocurrency. Staying updated always pays off.
- Video Creation and Editing
Every day, we consume loads of video content. Advertising, education, entertainment…videos are everywhere! Knowing how to create interactive and appealing video content has many personal and professional benefits. It’ll surely make your resume stand out.
- Graphic Designing
Like video content, graphics can cast a spell on people and it’s not surprising given that most of us are audio-visual learners. Graphic design is a useful skill, one that is useful anywhere: at home, in college, or at work. Graphic Designing courses are usually software-specific focusing on programs such as Photoshop or InDesign.
- First Aid
We cannot tell you how valuable this course is. Jobs and college aside, this skill can save lives of yours and others. Taking a first aid course is one of the best things you can do, not only to boost you resume, but also to help others!
- Writing
Never underestimate the power of good writing. Words can be very persuasive. Developing your writing skills is a huge bonus. Writing needs practise, but you can begin by learning the basics. Add this skill to your profile and you are bound to turn heads.
- Language Courses
Having reading and speaking level proficiency in a language other than English is a massive advantage. Being bilingual or multilingual has proven to improve academic performance. An extra language also greatly enhances your job prospects.
French, Spanish, and Mandarin are the most preferred languages. You can easily find a beginner-level course that suits you.
- Persuasion
Getting people to accept your ideas and opinions requires the art of persuasion. Being able to persuade people is a skill that will serve you for a lifetime. As long as you’re meeting people, persuasion is needed and this is a skill that will bring instant attention to your CV.
- Public Speaking
Making a sales pitch to your customer, presenting an idea to your boss, giving a seminar in front of a class – all these require good public speaking skills. There’s more to public speaking than meets the eye, and it’s a skill that comes attached with countless benefits.
Summing Up
Investing in your skillset is similar to compound interest. In the long run, you will be astonished at the benefits. However, developing skills is not an overnight thing – it requires dedicated practice and commitment. Remember, you reap what you sow.