Have you been passed up for promotion? You do not have an MBA degree. You missed being part of the projects because your skill sets do not match those needed? Women today are realising the need to get more qualified to keep pace with colleagues, and climb the corporate world.

Most HR managers would agree that a resume that reflects continuous up-gradation of an employee’s credentials implies that the person is a good worker. So every time you have the opportunity, time and inclination to do a course, take it. Not only will you learn new things, it also shows the world your commitment to work.

Few situations that demand you to do a formal course while working are:

Your current profession or job requires you to get the said certification or degree. You want to change careers from one field to another. You need to do a course to get a better understanding of an area that interests you. You want to substantially improve your career prospectus.

It’s a right choice babay !

The greater the investment you make in your education, the higher the value the job market places on you. Usually, the rule thumb is that full –time courses are better than the part time ones, which are better than diplomas and so on. The institution’s standing is crucial too. The tougher it is to get into a course, the better it is considered. While selecting a course, make sure that the curriculum interests you, meets your needs, time required and cost.

Finally, that you will get the benefits your desire on completion. Talk to some professionals in the area, to the HR manager in your company, and other colleagues who have done similar courses. Then assess all the available options against the time and effort you can invest and choose the best option. Don’t always go for the easiest, cheapest or the most popular.

Joining a course is usually easier than completing it, especially if you are also working at the same time. The course will test the limits of your discipline, commitment and time management skills.

Tips to keep in mind when you juggle work and education-

1) Don’t leave any work pending at work or school.

2) Keep yourself motivated.

3) Aim for the moon.

4) Don’t let office dictate your time schedule.

5) Complete a course before you start another.

6) Upgrading your skill always pays rich dividends. So if you want your career to fulfill you mentally and financially, now maybe the time to wear grad hat.