As the summer sun rises and the academic year is in your rearview mirror, it's the perfect time to embark on a journey of self-improvement. Whether you're a student thinking about your next semester, a recent graduate gearing up for your career, or a professional looking to enhance your skill set, use the next few months to level up your technology know-how. From mastering Excel for data analytics to becoming a Microsoft Teams pro, here's how you can make the most of your summer by gaining valuable tech skills through hands-on experience and LinkedIn Learning courses.

Excelling at Excel

Excel isn't just about columns and rows — it's a powerful tool used across various industries for data analysis, marketing, finance, and beyond. This summer, dive deep into Excel on LinkedIn Learning. Learn how to sort data efficiently, craft complex formulas, and make your spreadsheets visually appealing with conditional formatting. Learn advanced functions and harness the power of pivot tables to summarize and reorganize selected data to create reports. With these skills, you'll be equipped to tackle real-world challenges and impress your boss or potential employers with your analytical prowess.

Transcending Teams

In today's remote and hybrid work environments, proficiency in collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams is essential. If all you do is log into the occasional Teams video meeting or send IMs, you’re missing some of the most powerful capabilities of the app. Take advantage of the summer break to familiarize yourself with all the features and functionalities of Teams, from simultaneous editing, file sharing, and team calendars, to integrating third party apps and creating Teams rooms. Once again, LinkedIn Learning is an excellent resource to learn how to leverage Teams for seamless communication and collaboration within your team. By becoming a Teams expert, you'll enhance your productivity and adaptability in the modern workplace.

Preparing for the Post-Grad World

For many of us, graduation looms on the horizon, and with it, the transition into the workforce or graduate school. Use this summer as an opportunity to equip yourself with the skills and knowledge needed to take the next step. LinkedIn Learning offers many courses about career readiness, interviewing skills, networking, and creating a resume. It also has courses that can help prepare you for graduate school admissions tests, certification exams, and licensing exams. Take advantage of these resources to gain a competitive edge and make a smooth transition to the next phase of your education or career.

Seeking Inspiration from Experienced

Online learning is only part of the journey of preparing for the career you want. Don't hesitate to seek guidance and inspiration from experienced professionals in your network. Find a mentor who works in the field you want to pursue. Ask them about their experiences and the skills they find most valuable. Learn about the day-to-day life of their work, and the kinds of things they are expected to do. Use their insights to tailor your learning path so you can focus on acquiring the skills that will set you apart in your desired industry. Remember, learning doesn't happen in isolation—collaboration and mentorship can accelerate your growth and help you reach your goals faster.

Brushing Up on Any Skill

Finally, use the summer break as an opportunity to brush up on essential skills that will serve you well in any professional setting. Whether it's honing your communication skills, improving your time management techniques, or mastering the art of problem-solving, LinkedIn Learning offers a wide range of courses to help you sharpen your skills and become a more well-rounded professional. Or take a course to support your personal passions. From photography or learning to play an instrument, to learning how to edit home videos or create a personal website, there’s so much to pique your interest. And who knows, it may actually influence your career someday!

Set Yourself Up for a Productive Summer

Summer is the perfect time to embark on a journey of skill enhancement and personal development, and LinkedIn Learning is here to help. Whether you're a recent graduate preparing to enter the workforce or a seasoned professional looking to stay ahead of the curve, LinkedIn Learning offers the resources you need to succeed. So seize the opportunity to level up your skills this summer and unlock a world of possibilities for your future career!

-- By Haree Lim, Student IT Blogger