#working professional

Hi my name is Plum Harmon. I’ve been on this hell site (affectionate) since 2011. I’m a full grown adult with an adult job and I post whatever. Sometimes it can be NSFW or 18+ so please be advised.

OLD USER NAMES

-aznpandalver -> SlumberingPanda -> EnharmonicPanda

Tags for your viewing (dis)pleasure

#Plum Cosplays - For my Cosplays. I feel like that’s self explanatory.

#Plum Ponders - For my random thoughts. Sometimes it’s 3 am fumes. Sometimes it’s a literary masterpiece.

#Cool Cosplayers - Cosplayers that I think are neat

#haha funny things - Things that made me laugh. My sense of humor is not great so be warned.

#helpful - Things I found helpful. Whether for mental health or general advice

#tasty food - Food pictures I take. Recipes. And just food posts.

#working professional - I complain about work

#Ask Plum - Ask box answers

#plum in the wild - My IRL adventures

#ao3 down - General fandom related things

I graduated from college back in May 2013 with a BA in sociology degree (aka worthless degree if you want a decent salary). Because I knew that my job prospects were going to be shit, I enrolled in my university’s technical writing certificate program. That move landed me a full-time paid co-op (like an internship) that lasted for 7 months before I got offered a permanent full-time job at the company. I stayed at that company as a technical writer for 3 years. 

During those 3 years, I learned a LOT but not what I expected. Technical writing, at its core, is taking complicated information and distilling it in a way that’s most accessible to your designated audience. It’s not something you need to go to college for, but it sure helps if you graduate from a program that has a good network of alumni and job opportunities. 

I’m a first generation college student and I’m also the first in my family to work a white collar job. It was/is a big deal. 

Anyways, let me get back to what I learned that I didn’t in school: 

Networking: It’s imperative that you meet as many people within your department and outside your department to establish those professional relationships. Why? That’s my next point. 

Office Politics: You can’t avoid it and if you want your career to thrive, you have to learn how to navigate it. This determines so many aspects of your job. Whether or not you’re going to get cooperation from your colleagues to strategically being placed on the “good” projects vs the “bad” ones. Getting the insider tips or advice on how to impress certain managers so that you get noticed.

Perception is Reality: When you have hundreds of people working in cubicles, cliques form and gossip runs rampant. Not everyone is watching everyone else’s moves, but things do not go unnoticed. One prime example that I was warned about was when you came in for work and when you left. 

Getting Buy-In: Again, this goes back to 1 & 2 but the ability to assess different people’s needs and frame your own needs to align is crucial. Everyone is busy; everyone has their own priorities. Being able to persuade people to go along with your ideas and then execute them to prove yourself is a skill. 

Honestly, you can google a shit ton of stuff on the job. I’ve also learned people are pretty forgiving if you don’t know something, but follow up with how you could do something or say you’ll do research to figure it out. Essentially, how well can you solve a problem (that may not always have a clear cut answer) seemed to be what I *really* needed to know. 

Anyways, so I started to realize that after 3 years of technical writing, I felt stuck. I didn’t feel like I was being challenged and I wasn’t happy with my manager’s management style. Back in September, I did a program that puts you through training to become a software development engineer in test (SDET/QA). I graduated beginning of February and now am in the contract phase. 

The ultimate goal is that by August/September, I’ll be offered a permanent full-time position at the company I’m at. The work is definitely a lot more challenging and I’m learning so much. But the truth is, I don’t know if this is what I want to do for the next 10 years. Next 4-5 years, yes definitely. 

I don’t know how this will work out. I took a significant pay cut to take advantage of this opportunity because I knew long-term, this is the right choice. I’ve gone through most of my savings and had to get a second job. My goal is that my salary doubles when I’m offered a permanent position. 

⏳ Limited slots available! Join exclusive Pilates classes at Activ8 Pilates Studio.

Small batches, expert trainers, and a premium fitness experience.

🔥 Pilates Classes in Juhu | Personal Training in Mumbai | Fitness Studio Near Me 📍 Juhu, Mumbai

Location :

Committing to a traditional degree can be challenging, especially when you're balancing work and personal responsibilities. As a working professional, finding time for skill development can be tough. If you're looking to upskill quickly and increase your earning potential, short-term courses provide the perfect solution.

In this guide, we'll explore the best online short term courses that can help you enhance your career prospects across various industries.

Top Online Short-Term Courses

Whether you're interested in tech, finance, management, or marketing, there’s a course designed to fit your needs. Here are some of the most popular short term courses offered by UniAthena:

Basics of Data Science

Data is the new oil, and Data Science skills are in high demand. The Basics of Data Science short-term course will teach you fundamental principles, data analysis techniques, and real-world applications. In just 4-6 hours, you’ll be equipped to extract meaningful insights from data. Earn a CIQ, UK certificate upon completion.

Executive Diploma in Machine Learning

If you're fascinated by AI-driven technologies, the Executive Diploma in Machine Learning is a must. This 2-3 week free learning program covers essential ML models, their applications, and how they make intelligent predictions.

Diploma in Artificial Intelligence

AI is transforming industries worldwide. With the Diploma in Artificial Intelligence, you’ll learn about neural networks, automation, and machine learning fundamentals. This 1-2 week course prepares you to step into the AI revolution confidently.

Mastering Accounting

Accounting remains a lucrative career path. The Mastering Accounting short-term course is perfect for finance professionals looking to sharpen their skills in financial reporting and analysis. Upon completion, receive a CIQ, UK certification.

Basics of Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is crucial for businesses today. The Basics of Digital Marketing course introduces you to SEO, social media, and analytics tools in just 4-6 hours. With a CIQ, UK certification, you’ll be ready to launch impactful marketing campaigns.

Diploma in Financial Risk Management

For those in banking or finance, the Diploma in Financial Risk Management course provides essential knowledge on risk assessment and mitigation. In just 1-2 weeks, you’ll learn how to minimize financial losses and enhance stability.

Mastering Product Management

Are you an aspiring product manager? The Mastering Product Management course covers product strategy, market research, and team leadership. Complete the course in 1 week and gain a certificate from AUPD.

Mastering Supply Chain Management

Understanding supply chain dynamics is key to operational success. The Mastering Supply Chain Management short-term course offers insights into logistics, risk management, and procurement strategies. Complete this 1-week course and earn a CIQ, UK certification.

Executive Diploma in Procurement & Contract Management

Contracts are vital for business operations. The Executive Diploma in Procurement & Contract Management provides a legal and strategic perspective on vendor relationships, making it an ideal 2-3 week free course.

Diploma in Environment Health and Safety Management

Safety is a priority in any industry. The Diploma in Environment Health and Safety Management trains you in hazard prevention, risk assessment, and workplace safety. Learn in just 1-2 weeks and earn an industry-recognized certification.

Why Short-Term Courses Matter in Malawi

Malawi’s job market is evolving, with increased demand for tech, finance, and management professionals. Investing in short-term courses can give you a competitive edge in emerging sectors such as data science, digital marketing, and supply chain management.

Whether you're a fresh graduate or an experienced professional looking to pivot, UniAthena's Free Online Short Courses provide accessible, high-quality education tailored for career advancement.

Conclusion

If you're seeking high-paying career opportunities, these short-term courses are an excellent investment. All of these programs are free to learn, allowing you to explore new skills without financial constraints. 

Take the first step toward career growth today!

Bonus Tips:

The future is digital—consider Basics of Data Science, Executive Diploma in Machine Learning, or Diploma in Artificial Intelligence for tech-forward careers.

Want a managerial role? Short-term management courses like Mastering Product Management and Supply Chain Management are a great choice.