Boost your skills

Update skills with short-term training

Explore these skill-building options:

• Basic digital skills are needed for most jobs. Digital literacy classes are often free, at public libraries, community education centers, and American Job Centers.
• Learn more about a subject with an online class. Many are free or low cost. Try Alison.com, Coursera.org, LinkedIn Learning, Udemy,com, or others.
• Community colleges offer short-term, non-credit courses and certificate programs in many fields. Find schools near your with the Local Training Finder. 
• Refresh basic English or math skills at a literacy training center.
• Look for professional certifications related to your career and consider earning one to update your credentials.

Inventory and promote your skills

How could your skills meet an employer's needs? Improve your job prospects by knowing what your skills are, and highlighting them on your resume and in job interviews. Try these tips:

• Research current trends for skills needed for your targeted jobs and employers. Read through job postings and professional publications. Look for professional associations to join in your field. Attend a professional training, conference, or webinar they sponsor.
• Assess your current skills. Take the Skills Matcher to inventory your skills and create a list to use for your resume. Also find career options that use your skills.
• Remember to promote your soft skills. Employers want good communication skills and a strong work ethic-skills that most older workers bring to the workplace. Identify concrete examples of your soft skills to bring up in interviews.