7 Ways to Maximize Your Experience with Online Courses as a Creative Professional

Issue #113 Business Building June 20, 2023

Are you busy? Of course you are! Do you think you don't have the time or the money to invest in online courses? Of course you do!

As a creative professional, you are always looking to improve your skills and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends. At least, you should be on the lookout for things that will improve you personally and your business professionally.

One way to achieve this is by taking online courses. Online courses offer many benefits, including flexibility, affordability, convenience, and the opportunity to learn from experts in your field. However, to get the most out of your online learning experience, there are some things you should keep in mind.

As you review these recommendations, please notice how the courses offered by the Global Creative Community Branding and Marketing Academy (GCC BMA) could be your best choice.

1. Set Goals and Prioritize

Before enrolling in an online course, set specific and measurable goals for yourself. Ask yourself what you want to achieve by taking this course, and how it will help you in your career. Once you have set your goals, prioritize them and create a plan to achieve them. This will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the course.

For each GCC BMA course, you are encouraged to first think about your goals for investing in the course.

2. Choose the Right Course

When choosing an online course, make sure it aligns with your goals and interests. Look for courses that are taught by industry experts and have a good reputation. You should also consider the course format, duration, and cost before enrolling.

I developed these courses based on working with hundreds of creative professionals just like you, and also based on decades of my own experiences and expertise.

3. Create a Schedule

Online courses offer flexibility, but it's important to create a schedule that works for you. Determine how much time you need to devote to the course each week, and block off that time in your calendar. Make sure to also schedule time for assignments, quizzes, and exams. Creating a schedule will help you stay on track and avoid falling behind.

In the introduction to each course, I encourage you to schedule the time needed to maximize the investment you made.

4. Participate in Discussions

Online courses offer the opportunity to connect with other learners and industry experts. Take advantage of this by participating in discussions and asking questions. This will help you gain new perspectives and ideas, and also expand your network. Make sure to also provide feedback and support to other learners in the course.

When you invest in one or more courses, you are invited to join us in the Facebook Group where you can communicate with me and network with others in the Group.

5. Take Notes and Review Materials

Taking notes during online courses can help you retain information and stay engaged. Reviewing course materials regularly can also help reinforce key concepts and ideas. Make sure to organize your notes and materials in a way that works for you, such as creating a digital folder or using a note-taking app.

One of the very first things I recommend you do with each course is to be ready to take notes in your analog or digital notebook.

6. Apply What You Learn

One of the best ways to maximize your online learning experience is by applying what you learn. Apply those new concepts and techniques in your work or personal projects. This will help you gain practical experience and reinforce your learning. You can also share your work with others and ask for feedback.

Unlike many online courses, I actually keep track of how you are doing as you progress through the course and make myself available for your questions.

7. Evaluate Your Progress

At the end of the course, evaluate your progress and assess whether you have achieved your goals. Reflect on what you have learned and how to apply it in your business. You should also provide feedback to the course instructor and platform to help improve the learning experience for future learners.

By joining the Global CREATIVE Community Facebook Group when you invest in a course, you will be able to communicate with me and with other course participants to help you get and stay on track.

Conclusion

Online courses offer many benefits for creative professionals like you, but it's important to approach them with a plan and strategy. By setting goals, choosing the right course, creating a schedule, participating in discussions, taking notes, applying what you learn, and evaluating your progress, you can maximize your online learning experience and achieve your career goals.

Find out more about the Global Creative Community Branding and Marketing Academy Courses:

• For Independent Authors, click here.
• For Creative and Solo Professionals, click here.