Let’s face it – as L&D professionals, we aren’t always great at being on the other side of the classroom. Hence the name of our podcast (have you checked it out yet??) We design, develop, and deliver the training, but often fail to develop ourselves. There are some valid reasons for this – we work in a somewhat niche career and tend to wear about 20 hats at a time. It can be hard to find appropriate development opportunities… and even harder to make time for them. But as learning professionals, we have to be an example if we want to cultivate a culture for learning. Here’s some ideas on how to grow your own skillset:
Certify This!
L&D certifications are becoming more mainstream, and there’s plenty of other opportunities that align with our career path as well. ATD offers CPTD and Training Industry offers CPTM, both of which are fantastic L&D-centered certifications. There are also courses and workshops designed to help with individual tools, such as Articulate or Adobe Suite.
But don’t limit yourself to L&D topics. Human resources certifications like SHRM or project management certifications like the PMP are also very relevant, especially for smaller teams that must take on multiple roles. You might also explore topics like DEI, leadership, or consulting skills.
Conferences are for Learning too!
Many of us attend conferences as speakers or vendors, but don’t forget to be a participant too. Go to sessions, network with others, and get your creativity juice flowing! Look at more than just the content of the session – I’ve definitely been inspired by a nice-looking presentation or video!
Microlearning, Macro Impact
We like to talk about designing microlearning, but are you consuming it too? Sign up for a newsletter – and actually read it. Schedule 5 minutes to watch a video on a new tool or idea. Join a LinkedIn group and make a goal to participate in one post a week. With each micro action you take, you’re inching closer to the best version of you.
Become the Mad Scientist
Penicillin, Post-It Notes, and the microwave were all developed by accident. Moral of the story? Take chances with your learning! Try a crazy activity in your next instructor-led session. Pilot a new gamification idea within your own team. Try a new development tool – even if you’re not “great” at it yet. Whether it becomes your next big hit, or something to look back at and laugh… you’ll learn something from the experience!
To be better at delivering great learning, we must first become better learners. So let’s make a goal as a community to step out of our comfort zone and be brave enough to fumble through a new tool, idea, or topic. Set the example and others will follow!
