What should you consider when selecting hands-on training programs for your clients?

1 The relevance of the program

The first thing you need to consider is how relevant the program is to your clients' career aspirations and current market demand. You want to choose a program that aligns with your clients' interests, strengths, and values, as well as the skills and competencies that employers are looking for in their industry or field. You also want to avoid programs that are outdated, obsolete, or too niche, as they may not help your clients advance their careers or find new opportunities.

2 The quality of the program

The second thing you need to consider is the quality of the program, which includes the curriculum, the instructors, the materials, the facilities, and the accreditation. You want to choose a program that has a comprehensive and relevant curriculum that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of the skill or topic. You also want to choose a program that has qualified and experienced instructors who can provide effective feedback and guidance to your clients. Additionally, you want to choose a program that has high-quality materials and facilities that support your clients' learning and development. Finally, you want to choose a program that has a recognized accreditation or certification that validates your clients' achievements and enhances their credibility.

3 The duration and flexibility of the program

The third thing you need to consider is the duration and flexibility of the program, which includes the schedule, the pace, the location, and the mode of delivery. You want to choose a program that fits your clients' availability, learning style, and budget. You also want to choose a program that allows your clients to balance their work, family, and personal commitments while pursuing their training goals. Some programs may be intensive and require full-time attendance, while others may be modular and allow part-time or online participation. You need to assess your clients' preferences and constraints and select a program that suits their needs and expectations.

4 The outcomes and benefits of the program

The fourth thing you need to consider is the outcomes and benefits of the program, which includes the learning objectives, the assessment methods, the feedback mechanisms, and the support services. You want to choose a program that has clear and measurable learning objectives that match your clients' career objectives and skill gaps. You also want to choose a program that has fair and valid assessment methods that test your clients' knowledge and performance. Moreover, you want to choose a program that has timely and constructive feedback mechanisms that help your clients improve and grow. Furthermore, you want to choose a program that has adequate support services that assist your clients with their academic, technical, and personal issues.

5 The testimonials and reviews of the program

The fifth thing you need to consider is the testimonials and reviews of the program, which include the opinions, experiences, and recommendations of past and current participants, instructors, employers, and industry experts. You want to choose a program that has positive and credible testimonials and reviews that demonstrate the value and impact of the program. You also want to avoid programs that have negative or questionable testimonials and reviews that indicate the problems or shortcomings of the program. You can find testimonials and reviews on the program's website, social media, online forums, or through word-of-mouth.

6 The cost and return on investment of the program

The sixth and final thing you need to consider is the cost and return on investment of the program, which include the fees, the funding options, the income potential, and the career prospects. You want to choose a program that is affordable and accessible to your clients, as well as offers various funding options such as scholarships, grants, loans, or employer sponsorship. You also want to choose a program that has a high return on investment, meaning that it can increase your clients' income potential and career prospects in the short and long term. You can estimate the cost and return on investment of the program by comparing the fees, the duration, the accreditation, the outcomes, and the market demand of different programs.