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Invest in yourself: The perfect start to the new year

The new year has been underway for a while now, and the time of good intentions is still in the air. Ready for something other than classic resolutions like losing weight or quitting smoking? Consider investing in yourself this year!

Knowledge gives power

Anno 2025, it is more important than ever to keep developing yourself. Investing in knowledge development not only increases your chances in the self-employment or job market, but also your self-confidence and personal growth. In a dynamic industry such as IT, where technologies change rapidly, standing still is not an option. By proactively updating your knowledge, you remain valuable and future-proof in your field.

Training: the key to success

Taking training courses is an effective way to broaden your knowledge and skills. Whether you want to boost your career or simply increase your personal effectiveness, there is always a training that suits you.

The benefits of training 

  • Up-to-date knowledge: Stay abreast of the latest developments in your field, such as new programming languages, frameworks or security methods.
  • New skills: Learn new techniques and increase your expertise, for example by delving into DevOps or data analytics.
  • Personal growth: Increase your self-confidence, improve your communication skills or learn to collaborate more effectively. 

Whether it's an online course, a workshop or a multi-day training, there are countless options to achieve your goals.

Tips for choosing a training course

  1. Determine your learning goals: What exactly do you want to learn? Do you want to sharpen technical skills or work on your soft skills?
  2. Choose a training that suits you: Consider the format (online or physical), duration, price and level of training.
  3. Look for recognized providers: Choose trainers or institutes with a good reputation, so you can be sure you are getting quality. 

Do you use our professionals services? If so, you may already be familiar with the Striive Academy. Below are a number of inspiring training courses specifically for IT professionals, offered through our Striive Academy:

1. AI and machine learning: 

The world increasingly runs on data and smart algorithms. By investing in training in artificial intelligence or machine learning, you're taking a big step into a field with a huge future. Consider courses on TensorFlow, PyTorch or data ethics. 

2. Cybersecurity:

With the growth of digital threats, knowledge of cybersecurity is indispensable. Learn about ethical hacking, pentesting or how to develop secure networks and applications. For example, a CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) certification can add a lot of value. 

3. Cloud computing:

Cloud-based solutions are becoming increasingly popular. Take training in AWS, Microsoft Azure or Google Cloud Platform and specialize in cloud architecture or cloud security.

4. DevOps and CI/CD:

More and more IT teams are working according to the principles of DevOps. With a course on CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment), tools such as Docker or Kubernetes, you can contribute to more efficient development and deployment processes.

5. Data Analysis and Visualization:

Data is the basis of many decisions. Learn to use tools such as Power BI, Tableau or Python-based libraries such as Pandas and Matplotlib to extract insights from complex data sets.

6. Personal Effectiveness:

In addition to technical knowledge, it is also important for independent professionals to be strong in other areas. Consider training in:

  • Time management: Learn how to manage your time and deadlines more efficiently.
  • Negotiation and client conversations: Improve your communication skills and learn how to better sell your services.
  • Leadership and project management: For IT professionals who lead or manage multiple projects simultaneously, courses such as PRINCE2 or Scrum Master can be valuable.

Personal effectiveness training: https://app.mycademy.com/knowledge-center/361/overview

Invest in yourself

7. Blockchain technology:

Although the technology is often associated with cryptocurrency, blockchain offers countless opportunities in areas such as supply chain management, healthcare and IT security. Training in it can position you as an expert in an innovative field.

 8. Low-code platforms:

Platforms such as Mendix, OutSystems and Microsoft Power Apps are becoming increasingly popular for developing solutions quickly. A course in low-code development can help you add value faster for your customers.

9. UI/UX design:

For IT professionals working on web or app development, training in usability and design is a valuable addition. Tools such as Figma or Adobe XD can be central here.

Investing in the right training will give your career as an independent professional a flying start. It's an investment in yourself that pays off not only financially, but also personally and professionally. Start exploring today and make 2025 your best year yet!