Why Upgrading Your Business Skills and Knowledge Matters
As the leaves begin to turn and the air cools, there's a familiar feeling that comes with September—the back-to-school season. But it's not just for kids any more. For business owners and entrepreneurs, it's the perfect time to consider "going back to school" to upgrade your skills and knowledge.
At Community Futures Cowichan, we believe in the power of continuous learning to keep your business thriving. Let’s explore how you can embrace the back-to-school spirit this fall with various types of upgrading, where to go for training, funding supports, and the benefits you’ll reap.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Skills
Stay Competitive
In today’s fast-paced market, businesses that continually upgrade their skills stay ahead of the competition, just like top students stay ahead of the class.
Enhance Efficiency
Improved skills lead to better business processes and increased productivity, akin to mastering your study techniques for better grades.
Boost Employee Morale
Investing in training shows employees that you value their development, leading to higher job satisfaction and retention—like a teacher who inspires students to love learning.
Drive Innovation
New knowledge and skills can lead to innovative solutions and fresh business ideas, just as a new school subject can open your mind to new possibilities.
Expand Network
Attending courses and seminars is like making new friends at school—building connections that can benefit your business.
How to Upgrade – for Owners and Staff
Online Courses:
Think of this as your virtual classroom. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of courses that let you brush up on business essentials or dive into new areas—all from the comfort of your home office. These can be just one hour or sometimes a couple days .
In-Person Workshops and Seminars:
Remember the excitement of starting a new school year? Get that same feeling by signing up for workshops and seminars, often offered by local business associations and chambers of commerce. This is a chance to ask your local experts questions directly and you can walk away with a few gems that are actionable right away, And it’s a great way to learn and network.
Micro-Credentials:
Micro-credential programs or courses allow learners to gain specialized career-developing skills to respond to a quickly changing business environment. These are a fast and flexible way to upskill or re-skill and remain competitive in your industry.
Certification Programs:
These are not the same time commitment and cost as returning to school full-time. Generally, they focus on one major topic, and you get a certificate to demonstrate your competency and skills. Popular ones include Project Management Certification or Leadership & Management.
Upgrade with Community Futures Cowichan
Hear from local business owners who have “gone back to school” with Community Futures Cowichan...
“I now feel equipped with a toolbox full of resources that I regularly revisit, ensuring my leadership is intentional and impactful.”
“My confidence in my leadership skills went from zero to a thousand! I have so many tools, techniques, and insights to draw from.”
“I found connection with other female, small business owners in the community, leading to lasting relationships with some truly inspiring women.”
“Savvy helped me step away from the day-to-day and focus on the business of running a business. A time to think things through at the macro-level whilst getting incredible content from Ingrid and the perspectives of other local business owners facing the same struggle.”
Funding Programs that can help with Training Costs
There is funding support for employees looking to upgrade. You have to do your research and be prepared to do the paperwork, but its often worth it.
A popular one is the B.C. Employer Training Grant, which provides funding to small, medium and large enterprises to support skills training for their workforce, including prospective new hires.
Employers can apply as often as they need and receive 80% of the cost of training up to $10,000 per employee with a maximum annual amount per employer of $300,000.
Conclusion
Why not "go back to school" and upgrade your business skills and knowledge? Whether through professional development courses, certification programs, or advanced degrees, the benefits are substantial. At Community Futures Cowichan, we’re here to support your journey of continuous improvement with training programs and funding options tailored to your needs.
For more information, contact us directly. Let’s build a stronger business community together!