Best Online Resources for Teaching Yourself Business Skills

The ability to adapt and learn new skills is more vital than ever. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business professional looking to upskill, or someone pivoting into a new field, self-education can be a powerful tool in your arsenal. Fortunately, the internet is brimming with resources that can help you master essential business skills from the comfort of your home. Here's a guide to some of the best online platforms available for teaching yourself business skills.

1. Coursera

Coursera partners with top universities and companies worldwide to offer courses in a wide array of business disciplines. From finance and marketing to leadership and strategy, Coursera's courses are designed by industry experts and academics. Many courses are free to audit, and for those seeking certification, there’s an option to pay for a certificate of completion. Plus, with Coursera Specializations, you can dive deeper into a subject through a series of related courses.

2. LinkedIn Learning

Formerly known as Lynda.com, LinkedIn Learning provides a vast library of video tutorials created by industry experts. With a focus on both the technical and soft skills needed in the business world, this platform offers courses in leadership, management, data analysis, and much more. Subscribers can benefit from personalized course recommendations based on their LinkedIn profiles, making it easier to tailor learning to specific career goals.

3. Udemy

Udemy offers a marketplace of courses where instructors from around the globe can create and sell their courses. This platform provides a wide variety of business courses, from the basics of entrepreneurship to advanced data analytics. With frequent sales and discounts, Udemy is an affordable option for anyone looking to learn new skills or deepen their understanding of specific business topics.

4. Khan Academy

While Khan Academy is renowned for its K-12 educational resources, it also offers a solid foundation in business topics. The platform provides free resources in economics, finance, and entrepreneurship. The bite-sized lessons are perfect for individuals who prefer learning at their own pace without the pressure of deadlines.

5. Harvard Business Review (HBR) Online

For insightful articles, case studies, and videos that cover a wide range of business topics, the Harvard Business Review is invaluable. While not a traditional course-based platform, HBR offers in-depth analyses and thought leadership on critical business issues. It’s an excellent resource for those who prefer a more narrative style of learning and want to stay updated on the latest trends and theories in business.

6. edX

Similar to Coursera, edX offers courses from leading universities and institutions. Students can explore subjects like business management, entrepreneurship, and financial analysis. Many courses are free, with optional paid certifications. The platform is especially beneficial for those seeking high-quality content from prestigious institutions like MIT and Harvard.

7. Skillshare

Skillshare differentiates itself with a focus on creativity and project-based learning. While it offers courses on traditional business skills like marketing and management, it is also a great place to learn about the business side of creative industries. Skillshare operates on a subscription model, allowing unlimited access to its courses.

8. Google Digital Garage

Google offers free courses aimed at helping individuals develop their digital skills. While it covers a broad range of topics, its business-related courses such as digital marketing, data, and tech, are particularly valuable for those looking to excel in online business environments. The courses offer certification upon completion, adding value to your resume or LinkedIn profile.

Conclusion

The journey to mastering business skills online is paved with diverse resources tailored to fit different learning styles and objectives. Whether you prefer structured courses, engaging video tutorials, or insightful articles, there's something out there for everyone. By leveraging these online resources, you can acquire essential business skills and stay competitive in today's dynamic job market. The key is to remain curious, disciplined, and open to continuous learning. In doing so, you won't just keep pace with the business world; you'll be poised to lead it.