As tariffs loom on the horizon, threatening to shake the economy in a major way, now is the perfect time to safeguard your finances and establish an extra layer of protection before any hits come your way. A simple (and smart) way to do this? Uplevel your career and boost your income.
“If I had $500 to invest in my career before tariffs kick in, I’d focus on certifications and training that’ll help me upskill quickly and open doors to recession-resistant roles,” said Lauren Mastroni, career expert at Resume Genius.
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While hopefully these safeguards won’t be necessary, it’s always better to be prepared. Here are five ways to level up your skillset while maximizing your finances — all for under $500.
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Google Career Certificates (Coursera)
Just because the economy is unstable doesn’t mean you can’t accelerate your career. According to a 2024 survey, 75% of Google Career Certification graduates experienced a positive career outcome (whether landing a new job, a salary increase or a promotion) within six months of completing the course.
“Programs like IT Support, Data Analytics or Project Management can be completed for under $500 and are generally recognized by major employers,” Mastroni said. “These are ideal for pivoting into in-demand, high-growth fields quickly.”
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CompTIA A+ or Network+ Certification
If you’re interested in an IT role, chances are good that these jobs will be more resistant to tariffs due to how remote-friendly they are. However, it never hurts to beef up your resume just in case.
“If you’re aiming for an IT role, these certifications are respected and often qualify candidates for entry-level positions,” Mastroni said. “Prep courses and exam fees are usually around $500.”
Salesforce Administrator Certification
Even sales aren’t resistant to the effects of tariffs. Changes in the market can still disrupt supply chains and drive up prices, making closing a sale that much harder. To bolster your credibility in the field, consider a Salesforce Administrator Certification.
“Businesses will still need CRM experts in poor economic conditions,” Mastroni said. “A Salesforce certification can open doors to roles in sales ops, marketing automation and customer success, and is a great way to invest in yourself.”
LinkedIn Learning
Constantly learning and perfecting your craft is crucial to becoming an invaluable employee and protecting your job status during economic instability. For on-demand learning for less than $250 per year, LinkedIn Learning offers over 24,000 courses in hard and soft skills.
“LinkedIn Learning can be helpful and cost-effective,” said Lisa Countryman-Quiroz, CEO of JVS Bay Area, a nonprofit working to close opportunity gaps in employment. “Their AI courses are particularly valuable right now, as we’re seeing increasing demand for these skills across sectors. In fact, 66% of leaders say they wouldn’t hire someone without AI skills.”
Popular courses include “Time Management Fundamentals” with Dave Crenshaw, “How to Research and Write Using Generative AI Tools “with Dave Birss and “Effective Listening” with Brenda Bailey Hughes and Tatiana Kolovou.
Professional Resume Rewrite or Career Coaching Session
Did you know (according to LinkedIn) employers, on average, look at a resume for just six to seven seconds?
“Even a single session with a resume strategist or career coach (typically $150 to $400) can dramatically improve your job prospects and salary negotiation outcomes,” Mastroni said.
Before the economic climate gets rocky, consider investing in someone who can help you create a lasting impression, saving you time and helping you land jobs that will launch your career forward.
Editor’s note: Course pricing and availability may vary.
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Sources
Lauren Mastroni, Resume Genius.
Coursera, “2024 Program Graduate Survey.”
Lisa Countryman-Quiroz, JVS Bay Area.
Microsoft and LinkedIn, “2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report.”
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: The Best $500 You Can Spend On Yourself Before Tariffs Kick In
