Career training enrollment can feel like a daunting process, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are five tips to make the career training enrollment process painless so you can get on your way to a new and improved career.
Do your research.
Before committing to a class, read about different industries and the hiring potential upon completion. Use a job search tool to explore career paths and job availability for the different industries you are considering training for. Weighing the cost, benefits and hiring potential will help you determine whether the commitment is worth it.
Meet with a career coach.
Don’t feel like you have to do all the research yourself! Every community college in Virginia has staff dedicated to helping you navigate the process – from enrollment to the post-training job search. Be sure to meet with a career coach to learn about the program requirements prior to enrollment, so you are able to meet the deadlines to enroll successfully.
Get your supports in place, internally and externally.
Internal motivation and perseverance is key to successful career training. Be sure you are mentally ready to commit yourself to the several-week long trainings, and identify external motivators to help support you along the way, whether that’s a friend, parent, spouse or other loved one.
Nail down distracting details before they become a distraction.
Lack of reliable internet, transportation or childcare are all hurdles that could prevent you from doing your best. Instead of waiting for an issue to arise, prior to enrolling, think through any potential distractions and discuss and potential issues with your career coach. They may know of additional support services that can help. Spending extra time on the front end preparing for challenges, ensures that any challenge you face will seem like a molehill, not a mountain.
Break up the enrollment process into little steps.
Lastly, the enrollment process can seem overwhelming. Forms to fill out. Deadlines to meet. Classes to choose. Breaking the process into doable, small chunks and checking things off one at a time will help ensure you make it through the process successfully and get well on your way to an improved career.
You can do it! And we’re here to help every step of the way. Reach out to your local career coach today to get your journey started.