How to choose the best online course for you

Online courses are an effective way to create a career you enjoy, but how do you make sure you make the most of them? How do you choose the best online course for you?

I’m sure that you have done it before, registered for a free challenge to not actually joined in, or invested in an online course, but let it collect virtual dust as you never get around to it! It’s now so much easier to access the information you want and need for your career and business. From video tutorials, online test and workbooks, you don’t have to juggle childcare and work to access personal development support! But it is only useful if you actually use them!

My coaching qualification was, in part, remote learning. A combination of classroom learning, online information, and workbooks; I was able to fit that around working and everything else we need to do in this day and age.

Since I went self-employed and realised how much more I need to learn, I have invested in a variety of online learnings, from a monthly mastermind (with LOADS of content) to one-off webinars. I’ve also taken what I do, and what I have learned, and created online courses for my clients to use!

But, it’s easy, when YOU are in control of your timing, to let other things get in the way. Ultimately, you let your investment go to waste.

Sound familiar?

I want you to start treating online courses like you would an “in person” workshop or course. As if you are publicly accountable for turning up; imagine someone noticing that you are not doing the work! How would that feel?

By following these steps when you invest in your next, you may find you actually finish it! Ask yourself these questions:

What do I want to learn? 

What skills or knowledge gaps do you have? What is the benefit of learning this information?  Do you want a formal qualification or simply increase your confidence?

How much am I willing to invest?

Courses have a variety of pricing, so decide what the knowledge or insight is worth to you – in my experience, the cost is only relative to the results you get. So, it may cost £100, but can it save time (as it will speed up your processes) or increase your salary (by getting you a new job.) The financial investment is not the only thing you need to look at. How much time do you have available? Most courses should give you an overview of how much time it will take to complete it.

How do I learn best? 

Whilst you can’t guarantee that the course will have everything you need, do you know the best way that you learn? What is your learning style?  Keep that in mind when you are researching the course. Do you want video, workbooks, quizzes? Do you want something with an element of “trainer interaction”? This could be in a student forum or a Facebook Group. Either way, keep these in mind.

Who do I want to learn from?

Do you have someone in mind that you admire? If you can’t currently afford 1:1 time with them, they may have an online offering that could support you? If you don’t have anyone in mind, ask around; we all know how important recommendations are. Or, do you want something backed by a particular organisation? To gain a particular qualification? Do some research into the accreditations that really count. 

When will I do this?

Finally, and most importantly, SCHEDULE in time in your diary to do the course. Give yourself a deadline and work on it as if you were “in the room” with the trainer. If there are support functions – such as forums, Facebook groups, Q&A sessions or groups calls USE THEM. This is part and parcel of the process and will move your progress on faster than doing this on your own.

So, over to you. Start making a difference to your life today without leaving the house! Which courses have worked best for you? Don’t forget (cheeky little plug) I have a range of online courses which all include a group for extra support!