How do you evaluate the quality and credibility of online courses before enrolling?

Don't be afraid to reach out to others in the field you are seeking certification in. Whether it's asking a speciality recruiter what courses they typically like to see candidates have or asking someone in the position you want what courses they would recommend. You can also look at the organization's website and seek out any student data and outcomes they publish.

Here are the most reputable and well known online course platforms: LinkedIn Learning (I have 2 online courses with them) Coursera Udemy Skillshare edX

To evaluate the credibility of an online course before enrolling: 1.Check Reviews: Look for feedback from past students. 2.Instructor Credentials: Research the qualifications and experience of the instructors. 3.Course Content: Ensure the syllabus is comprehensive and up-to-date. 4.Accreditation: Verify if the course is accredited by a reputable organization. 5.Completion Outcomes: Assess the success rates and career outcomes of alumni. These steps help ensure you choose a high-quality course.

First, check the online course provider’s reputation. Look for accreditation, recognition, and a clear mission. Review their track record for quality education on their website and review sites.

I focus on several key factors: the reputation of the platform offering the course, the qualifications and expertise of the instructors, and the course content and syllabus. For example, if I'm interested in a course on digital marketing, I look for one offered by a reputable platform like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning and ensure the instructor has substantial industry experience. Additionally, I check reviews and ratings from past students.

Every instructor should have a verifiable online profile that tracks with their stated credentials and noted experience. LinkedIn is a great starting point! Seek out professors who are open to feedback and encourage engagement. Not every instructor will have a lengthy online biography, but do not hesitate to inquire about their teaching style from prior students, the course host, or even from the source. Finally, keeping in mind that not everyone may give a glowing recommendation, understand that each learner has their own approach and staying positive pays dividends. Commitment and communication are key. An instructor with passion and strong qualifications will be open to any student who wants to be thorough.

Check the LinkedIn Profile of the Instructor. Do they seem reputable? What's their experience? Do they have a personal website or portfolio? Then you can make the decision on the course...

Next, evaluate the course instructor. Check their credentials, qualifications, and experience. Review their teaching style and engagement methods through their profile, testimonials, and sample lectures.

The person teaching you is just as important as the platform. An impressive instructor can make a massive difference in your learning experience. Before you choose a course, check the instructor's LinkedIn profile. Look for practical experience, not just academic credentials. For example, if I'm taking a course on remote team management, I want someone who’s actively leading a remote team, not just someone who wrote a book about it. Don’t be shy to reach out! If needed email an instructor before enrolling in their course to ask about specific content. Their response (or lack of) can tell you everything I needed to know.

One thing I have found helpful in online courses curriculum is flexibility, access to regularly scheduled Live Chats, multiple lines of communication with course instructors and other administration, and having multiple options for accessibility (mobile, tablet, laptop, PC). Take time to research accountability for conflict resolution, completion rates, timely grading and responses to inquiries, accreditation, and how each course will benefit your career, personal, or entrepreneurial management plan.

Next, review the course curriculum. Check learning objectives, topics, and organization. Ensure it aligns with your goals and preferences. Look at the syllabus, outline, and sample materials.

I always review the table of contents of the course, and ideally watch the first video if possible, to get a better idea of the quality and content of the course. Sometimes the titles can be deceiving so do your due diligence!

What will you actually learn? Glance over the syllabus and make sure the content aligns with your goals. A strong curriculum should give you real skills, not just theory. When evaluating courses for look for actionable content. For example, if a course promises to teach recruitment automation, check whether it covers tools you use, like Lever or Greenhouse, and real-life case studies, not just concepts. Be wary of overly vague promises like "Become a master in 30 days." Look for detailed course breakdowns instead.

This is the BIGGEST one for me. How are the reviews? Same thing for restaurants. Would you eat at a place that has a 1 star Yelp review? Let past learners help you choose if this course is for you!

Check feedback on the course, including ratings and reviews from learners and employers. Look for strengths, weaknesses, and how well it met expectations. Find this info on the course page or forums.

Reviews from past students can be telling. But here’s the catch—don’t just look at the ratings. Read the detailed reviews. When you check feedback, focus on what people are saying about the instructor’s engagement, the course’s structure, and whether it delivered on its promises. Red flags include too many generic 5-star reviews that don’t say much. Prefer balanced reviews that point out both pros and cons. For deeper insight, join LinkedIn groups or forums related to the course topic. People often share unfiltered opinions there.

Check the course cost, payment options, and available discounts or financial aid. Compare it with alternatives to understand the value and benefits. Find details on the pricing page.

Pricing should make sense for the value offered. The most expensive course isn't always the best, and free ones aren’t necessarily bad. Invest in skill-building programs for the team. I’ve seen free courses that were just as valuable, like a Python tutorial from Harvard. Don’t base your decision solely on cost. Instead, compare the course fee to the potential return on investment (ROI) it offers in terms of skill development or career advancement.

A great way to balance the cost of online courses is to seek grants or company sponsorships. I have found it to be both professionally and financially beneficial to research career opportunities with companies that provide partial or full payment for higher education programs. Multiple colleges and corporations are partnered with the Corporate Alliance Grant which covers up to full tuition. This option always adds to the leverage of salary + benefits in contract negotiations in addition to putting you in a position to further your education without increasing your financial obligations.

Will this course pay dividends in the long run? What would that mean? A promotion? Higher salary? Ability to launch a business? Sometimes the price is cost of doing business to get you to level up!!

Make sure to check the DURATION of the course. Is it self paced, or live with an instructor? Do you have lifetime access or limited access? Is it a 2 hour course or 2 month course?

When evaluating the commitment required for an online course, it's crucial to align it with your professional and personal goals. As a hiring expert, I always look for courses that not only enhance my skills but also fit seamlessly into my busy schedule, allowing me to continue delivering top-notch recruiting services without compromising on quality or efficiency. Remember, the right course should empower you, not overwhelm you.

Research the qualifications and expertise of the instructors or facilitators who will be leading the course. Look for instructors with relevant experience, credentials, and expertise in the subject matter. Check their professional background, academic qualifications, industry experience, and any certifications or accolades they may have.

1 course could be life/career changing... Do your research to find one that works for you. And remember, knowledge is power.