Business leaders need to be prepared for a constantly evolving landscape of technological advances, economic conditions, and job prospects. If you want to grow in your career, you’ll need to be more than a hard worker. You’ll need to be committed to lifelong learning and a willingness to engage in courses and credentialing programs that can give your career path a boost.
Read on to find seven critical skills that future business leaders can gain from continuing education experiences.
1. A Firm Grasp of Digital Tools
You won’t get very far in the business world unless you have a strong sense of digital literacy. This means that you know how to utilize foundational digital tools, such as spreadsheets or accounting software, which are key components of business operations. You should be comfortable working with AI. And plan on learning how to tackle cloud-based document sharing and video conferencing. Become familiar with internal messaging apps and project management software, too. You’ll also want to be aware of common cybersecurity threats and the appropriate protocol to follow in response.
When you build your digital literacy, you’ll be more efficient in the workplace. You’ll also help create a better customer experience and set an example for colleagues. Be ready to embrace what technology has to offer so you’re not left behind.
2. The Ability to Read and Use Data
You don’t want to make a high-impact decision based on a hunch. Instead, today’s business leaders use data to make more informed decisions. Better yet, they can collect data to help track progress on initiatives and shape adjustments to anything from business plan goals to marketing strategies.
Companies that make data-driven decisions can make greater strides in revenue growth or brand visibility. Business leaders should understand how to gather and assess data, as well as read analytics spreadsheets.
3. Financial Skills
Business leaders always need a strong grasp of financial skills to build their careers. Are you comfortable with making investments on Wall Street? Do you know how to read balance sheets or manage cash flow? Aside from digital literacy, leaders need financial literacy to track budgets and shape investment strategies.
Through business education programs, like those at Berry College, aspiring leaders can hone their financial toolkits under the tutelage of seasoned faculty. Programs help leaders learn how to balance risks and returns and use resources more responsibly.
4. People Skills
Good business leaders need to be comfortable working with other people. Having sound emotional intelligence (EQ) enables leaders to stay in control while hearing the perspectives of team members. Leaders with high EQ can empower their employees, respond with compassion, and build greater company buy-in.
Leaders can nurture their EQ through continuing education courses that stress teamwork and communication. Role-playing activities can help individuals become better listeners and offer constructive feedback. Ultimately, these soft skills are a vital piece of the puzzle for leaders.
5. An Understanding of International Business
Many businesses operate on a global scale, and leaders should be ready to work across borders. That means knowing how to respond to customers and business partners in all corners of the world. Savvy leaders also will know cultural norms and international trade regulations to create seamless experiences. Taking coursework in global strategy can be a stepping stone to better international business relations.
6. Comfort with Uncertainty
There’s no guarantee that an upward trajectory will continue as planned for a business. Consequently, business leaders have to be ready to stay calm and adapt. Uncertainty can come in many forms, including economic downturns or the ascent of a competitor.
Leaders must be nimble and ready to pivot toward new ways of working. Continuing education opportunities can help leaders strengthen their problem-solving skills and learn how to develop frameworks for improvement.
7. Responsible Leadership Practices
Responsible business practices must be a central part of the plan for today’s business leaders. Customers want to support businesses that value ethical and sustainable ways of sourcing materials. And they want businesses to manage data responsibility and commit to paying workers fairly.
As part of ongoing learning programs, business leaders can find strategies for enacting more responsible leadership practices. Making changes can help businesses build better brands that resonate with employees and customers.
Preparing for the Future
Continuing education courses allow business leaders to stay current with best practices and sharpen their skills across a range of areas. Business leaders need good people skills, financial acumen, and an ability to analyze data. By pursuing coursework that delves into anything from international business to digital tools, today’s business leaders can be prepared for an unknown future.
