Upskilling

According to LinkedIn, “When an employee undertakes learning to expand their existing skill set, that learning is known as upskilling. These additional skills enhance the worker’s performance in their current role, potentially advancing them along their career path”. Today more people are transitioning between multiple careers within their lifetime. The ever-changing technology and workforce environment are requiring everyone to continuously acquire and demonstrate new skills.

To begin upskilling, you can identify the gap of your skillset through self-reflection and feedback. Then you can seek ways to fill that gap, such as through online courses. A host of online providers offer various courses such as LinkedIn Leaning, Code Academy, Coursera, EdX, Khan Academy, Stanford Online, and Udemy.

Please check the Canvas Upskilling module for additional resources for upskilling.

Babson Badges

Did you know you can earn badges at Babson? You might wonder what they are and what are the benefits. A badge is a type of microcredential that signals proficiency in a subject area. Earning a badge can have several advantages, from career opportunities to personal development. In competitive job markets, having a badge can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your dedication and commitment to professional development in your field of interest. Badges typically represent a specific set of skills, competencies, or knowledge. These badges often come with additional course requirements or other professional development opportunities and training.

Currently, Babson offers four badge programs.

The Bertarelli Institute for Family Entrepreneurship offers the Family Entrepreneurial Leadership Badge through The NextGen Family Entrepreneurial Leadership Program (FEL) with year-long training. (Link to Learn More)

The Frank & Eileen™ Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership provides an Inclusive Entrepreneurial Leadership Badge through the F&E CWEL Pathways program. (Link to Learn More)

The Glavin Office of International Education issues the badge through Glavin Global Fellow, with a digital badge highlighting the intersection of global studies, language learning, and experiential opportunities. (Link to Learn More)

The Kerry Murphy Healey Center for Health Innovation and Entrepreneurship launched a Health Innovation and Entrepreneurship Badge Program. If you’re interested in the healthcare and life sciences industry, the Badge Program can provide you with learning inside and outside the classroom, valuable insights, and connections. (Link to Learn More)

By completing these programs and earning the badge, you can improve your knowledge and skills in a specific area, which can help you excel in your incoming internship, future job or pivot to a new career path. The badge recognizes the credentials of your additional skills and expertise in the field and enhances your resume and LinkedIn profile, making you more attractive to employers. It may open doors to job opportunities or career advancement. Additionally, you gain access to a network of like-minded individuals, professors, and professionals, which can be invaluable for your personal and career development. More importantly, pursuing a badge can be personally fulfilling. It allows you to set and achieve goals, boosting your confidence and sense of accomplishment in the field. Earning a badge is an excellent opportunity for personal growth with ongoing learning and skill development.