When it comes to online learning platforms, Skillshare is one of the first names that comes to mind. Whether you're looking to sharpen your marketing skills, enhance your business strategies, or simply explore a new creative hobby, Skillshare offers thousands of courses across multiple categories. But is it worth your time and money? This
Skillshare review breaks down everything you need to know before deciding if this platform is the right fit for your professional or personal growth.If you're a business owner or entrepreneur looking for more tools to improve your branding efforts, check out
Branding Tools & Resources UAE for valuable insights and solutions that can help elevate your business presence.
What is Skillshare?
Skillshare is an online learning community designed for creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals looking to develop new skills. Unlike traditional educational platforms, Skillshare focuses on practical, hands-on learning. The majority of classes are under an hour, broken down into bite-sized lessons that make it easy to fit learning into a busy schedule.
How Skillshare Works
Skillshare operates on a subscription model, offering unlimited access to thousands of courses on topics like:
- Marketing and Branding
- Business Growth Strategies
- Graphic Design
- Photography
- Web Development
- Freelancing and Entrepreneurship
The courses are primarily video-based, with most including downloadable resources, assignments, and the ability to interact with instructors and fellow students through discussion boards.
Pros of Skillshare
1. Large Course Library
With thousands of courses available, there is something for almost everyone. Whether you're focusing on business, web design, or personal development, you’ll find relevant classes.
2. Affordable Pricing
Compared to traditional online courses, Skillshare offers a budget-friendly membership. The yearly subscription fee is lower than most standalone courses on other platforms, making it cost-effective if you plan to take multiple classes.
3. Short and Engaging Lessons
Skillshare’s video lessons are designed to be easy to digest, making learning approachable and unintimidating.
4. Hands-On Learning Approach
Many classes offer assignments and projects that help you apply what you’ve learned, rather than just passively watching lectures.
5. Community & Networking Opportunities
Skillshare includes community groups where members can interact with instructors and peers. This feature is particularly useful for freelancers and entrepreneurs looking to connect with like-minded individuals.
Cons of Skillshare
1. No Certificates or Accreditation
Unlike platforms like Coursera or Udacity, Skillshare does not offer certificates of completion or any form of accreditation, which may be a drawback if you’re looking for credentials to showcase.
2. Mixed Course Quality
Because Skillshare allows almost anyone to teach, the quality of courses can vary. While top-rated classes feature talented instructors, some classes may lack depth or proper structure.
3. Limited Advanced Courses
Skillshare is great for beginners and intermediate learners, but if you're looking for highly technical or advanced-level courses, you might find the selection lacking.
Who Should Use Skillshare?
Skillshare is best suited for:
- Business Owners & Entrepreneurs – If you're looking to learn about branding, marketing, or productivity hacks, Skillshare has courses to help.
- Freelancers – Those in graphic design, photography, writing, or other creative fields can refine their craft and stay competitive.
- Marketers – SEO, copywriting, and email marketing courses can provide useful strategies for digital growth.
- Side Hustlers – Ideal for those looking to acquire new skills for personal or professional projects.
Skillshare vs. Other Online Learning Platforms
How does Skillshare compare to other popular e-learning platforms? Here's a quick comparison with some well-known alternatives:
Platform | Best For | Pricing | Certificates? |
---|
Skillshare | Creative skills, entrepreneurship | Subscription-based | No |
Udemy | All-around skills | Pay-per-course | Yes |
Coursera | Academic and professional development | Course- or subscription-based | Yes |
Is Skillshare Worth It?
At the end of the day, whether Skillshare is worth it depends on your goals. If you’re looking for an affordable way to explore new skills, develop your business, or dive into creative learning, it’s a great option. However, if you need accredited certifications, platforms like Coursera or Udemy might be a better fit.Some users even take full advantage of their free trial to test courses before committing to a subscription—something worth considering if you're on the fence.
Final Thoughts
Skillshare is a fantastic resource for business owners, freelancers, and creatives who want to expand their skill sets without spending a fortune. While it’s not perfect, the sheer variety of courses, project-based learning, and networking potential make it a compelling option for self-improvement and business growth.Looking for more branding and business strategies? Check out
Branding Tools & Resources UAE for expert insights that can help take your brand to the next level.
Author
Louis Pretorius
With over two decades of experience in the industry, I have honed my skills in brand marketing and creative consultancy. I have collaborated with top-tier clients, delivering impactful strategies and solutions that drive business growth.My expertise spans various sectors, ensuring a comprehensive approach to every project.