While not every company is continuing to embrace remote work, it looks like the increase in remote work is here to stay. As of 2023, 12.7% of people work remotely, while 28.2% used a hybrid model to split their time between working at a job site and working at home. It is estimated that by 2025, 32.6 million Americans will work remotely. (Forbes Advisor)
The switch to remote work due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 required both employers and employees to learn new skills quickly. People learned how to work together and talk to team members using apps and software programs (hello Zoom!), advanced their computer skills to meet job requirements, and developed organizational skills to stay focused and productive.
If you are working remotely, or would like to, check out these free resources to help you keep your skills sharp and learn new ones that could advance your career options. If you are new to online learning, check out these 8 tips for effective online learning, and then get started!
Skill Building Resources
- GCF LearnFree
- Training and tutorials on more than 200 topics, including computer programs like Microsoft office, graphic design, job search/career, and starting from scratch with basic computer skills. Created by the Goodwill Community Foundation and Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina. Learn more about training and tutorials at GCF LearnFree.
- Alison.com
- Offers 1,000 free online courses with a range of topics from IT, Language, Health, Business, Marketing and Lifestyle. This is one of the biggest free online education and skills training resources available. Learn more about free online courses at Alison.com.
- LinkedIn Learning
- Offers all the training content previously available on Lynda.com with topics like customer service, leadership, time management and a range of software programs. LinkedIn Learning offers a free month trial for their online training. Also, LinkedIn Learning might be free through your public library, learn more about training at LinkedIn Learning.
- Building IT Fundamentals
- This free online course teaches basic computer skills such as using devices like a mouse and keyboard, creating documents, sending emails, using the internet, and managing personal data. Learn more about learning basic computer skills with Building IT Fundamentals.
- Dr Laurie Santos takes you through the latest scientific research and shares some surprising and inspiring stories about happiness. Learn more about scientific research and inspiring stories with The Happiness Lab Podcast.The Happiness Lab Podcast
