How To Choose eLearning Projects That Suit Your Talents
Earl Nightingale, the motivational speaker, said that "The biggest mistake that you can make is to believe that you are working for somebody else…The driving force of a career must come from the individual. Remember: Jobs are owned by the company, you own your career!" To be truly successful and fulfilled as an eLearning professional, you must choose eLearning projects that you feel truly passionate about. You have to be able to take control of your eLearning career and put yourself in the driver's seat, which means that you have to pick-and-choose the best jobs for your talents. Here are the 7 top questions you should ask before accepting your next eLearning project.
- Do you have the know-how and eLearning experience the job requires?
You might believe that the job is a perfect fit for you, but are you a perfect fit for the job? Unfortunately, there are some eLearning projects out of our scope. We may lack the necessary eLearning skills or specialize in a completely different area of eLearning. Before you apply for any positions or eLearning projects, carefully examine the qualifications and prerequisites. Do you have the necessary education and eLearning experience? Are they looking for eLearning skills or qualities that you still need to develop? Is the eLearning project completely out of your niche? Some employers give you the opportunity to learn on the job, even if you don't meet all the prerequisites, but that's not always the case. You can also determine if you have enough time to develop the required eLearning skills before the eLearning project starts. For example, there may be an eLearning course or webinar that can help. - Are you passionate about the subject?
A lot of hard work, dedication, and time goes into creating a high quality eLearning deliverable. You have to be passionate about your work and the subject in order to meet the needs of your audience. So, are you truly passionate about your eLearning profession and all that it entails? Do you have an interest in the topic or already know it inside and out? Are you ready and willing to go that extra mile to produce an amazing eLearning experience and meet the expectations of your client? If the subject doesn't spark your creativity or pique your curiosity, then it's probably best to pass and look elsewhere. - Why are you even considering the eLearning project?
This may seem like an obvious question. After all, you wouldn't just randomly submit a proposal if you weren't interested in the eLearning project. However, you need to take some time to question your motivation and figure out why this job appeals to you. Do you want to expand your eLearning portfolio? Will it help you develop a specific skill set? Are you going to get the chance to work with someone who can share their eLearning experience and insight? Will this eLearning project expand your horizons and put your knowledge to the test? Create a list of all the features that your ideal eLearning project would have. Be as specific as possible. Then compare the current eLearning project to your dream job. - Are you going to thrive in the working environment?
This is one of the most overlooked aspects of accepting an offer. If you are going to be working with an eLearning team in a physical workspace, you must have a clear idea of what the environment is going to be like. Tour the facility and meet with your colleagues. Arrange a meeting with the hiring manager or eLearning project manager to ask questions and address any concerns. If you are collaborating virtually you should learn as much as possible about the project management online platform you'll be using and the communication guidelines.
Your future eLearning team mates might be great and you are enthralled by the subject, but is the working environment going to be help you or hinder you? - Is the eLearning project's schedule going to work for your lifestyle?
Some organizations may have structured work schedules for their employees and contractors, while others offer more flexible and autonomous work hours. It's crucial to ask about this beforehand to see if the eLearning project's schedule is going to work for your lifestyle and needs. For example, if you are an eLearning freelancer who prefers to work on their own and doesn't like following a strict routine, then you may need a more flexible schedule. On the other hand, eLearning professionals who like more structure and aren't as productive on their own may prefer a set schedule. - Are there any ambiguities about the eLearning project?
The last thing you want is to accept the eLearning project only to discover that it's not what you expected. Clear up any ambiguities beforehand to avoid regrets later on. If the organization is unable to answer your questions or alleviate your doubts, then it's probably time to look for another eLearning project. You can also look for online reviews from past employees and clients to learn more about the company. - Are you accepting the offer solely for monetary reasons?
Money is also an important factor to consider, but it shouldn't be the only factor. If you do accept an eLearning project solely for monetary reasons you are doing yourself, the client, and the eLearning course audience a great disservice because your heart isn't really in it. Chances are, there are variety of other eLearning projects out there that will pique your interest and allow you to pursue your passions while making money.
There are a variety of side benefits to choose eLearning projects that match your abilities, such as improved client satisfaction and improved eLearning experiences. Answer these 7 questions to ensure that you always choose the best eLearning project for your talents and personal interests.
Your next rapid eLearning project is just around the corner, and you know that time will be of the essence. Read the article 6 Tips To Get A Head Start On Your Next Rapid eLearning Project to help you prepare for your rapid eLearning course in order to beat the clock and increase productivity.
