7 benefits of an online training certification

The beauty of the 21st century is the advancement in technology. As it is, the education system is evolving. You can now access almost all the courses that were primarily in the traditional education system by a click of a button. People are taking advantage of this opportunity, investing in online training to master their craft from the comfort of their offices and homes. 

Statistics project that the online education market will grow to $350 billion by 2025. This statistic was before COVID-19 disrupted the world. With the pandemic, more people are sharpening their skills through online training. The projected number is prone to increase. 

There are many reasons for the continual influx. However, before you dive into an online certification program, ensure it is legit. Tyler Read, a fitness professional and owner of ptpioneer.com, notes that some online training certification programs will take your money only to leave you with an invalid certificate. But, when you’ve done your due diligence and found a legit certification program in your industry, you stand to benefit big time. 

Here are the seven reasons it’s a game-changer.

Variety of Programs

There are diverse courses online, just like there is in a traditional college. Whether you want to pursue a doctorate, degree, diploma, or certificate, you’ll have plenty of choices. There are also industry-specific certifications you can take to reinforce your professional qualification in your industry. 

You can have personalized interaction with the lecturers in your program through emails and video conversations. You’ll get specific responses to address your concerns rather than general information typical of class-based lectures.

You can pursue what you are passionate about without leaving your home or worrying about commute or packing fees. You’ll only be spending on tuition fees. 

Self-Paced Learning System

Unlike traditional training programs where you must attend lecturers at a specified time and sit through until the lesson is over, online programs allow you to schedule your learning time. You can adjust your timing, stop or resume a lesson depending on your other commitments.

This flexibility allows you to build your business, continue with your career, or manage your family while learning. You can track down your progress and retake courses that are proving difficult at your own time. Also, you are at liberty to break the course module into sections you can easily comprehend.

There is no pressure to keep up with others. You set your goals and accomplish them within your timelines.

Build Credibility in Your Industry

Certification shows that you are qualified to deliver the services you purport to be an expert in. It is the only way to distinguish you from the crooks in the industry. With the right certification, you prove that you are competent and committed to the profession. 

Your credibility shows your clients that you can deliver to the standards of practice in your industry. Also, when seeking consultancy services, companies opt for people with specialized knowledge in the sector besides certification in particular programs. You stand a better chance to get these opportunities and even negotiate for increased payment. 

You can build a network that trusts in your business and reach out for better opportunities with confidence. 

Gain Advantage in the Competitive Market

Industries are always changing to meet the growing market needs. Being aware of the evolving trends in your industry and taking online programs that match these emerging interests sets you apart. 

When you have a certification that other professions in your industry lack, it is a sure sign that you are a pacesetter. You are keeping up with the industry’s current practices and remaining relevant in the market.

Online training enables you to get recertification in industries where you need continuous education to meet the professional standard. Program certification is a sure way to stay ahead of the pack and outshine your competitors.

Boost Career Development

Employees are looking for professions with the right qualification to boost their workforce. Online programs are producing well-trained professionals to meet this need. Enrolling for a professional certification program, undertaking the course to completion, and passing the tests indicate that you have met the standards.

It shows that you have a particular level of competency, and your knowledge is up-to-date. Employers can’t resist your expertise. 

Knowing the current practices in your industry gives you a solid foundation to enter the job market and take your career to the next level. You become an asset in your company and difficult to dispense.

Since companies strive to employ highly qualified persons to increase their overall profile, you have a better chance of gaining and retaining employment.

Increase Knowledge and Efficiency

Certification programs give you an in-depth understanding of a specific area in your industry, making you an expert and an authority.

The knowledge you gain provides you with current tools, techniques, and strategies to better implement projects with efficiency than before. It enables you to fill the skill gaps that reduce your productivity. 

Continuously honing your skills increases your competency and ability to meet your business goals. You become the go-to person for consultations in your industry.    

Increase Your Earning Potential

People will always pay more for value. A professional certification adds value to your qualification. When pursuing a business venture, salary raise, or employment, you have a higher negotiation power as your certification proves that you are worth it.

Your current clients won’t have a problem when you increase your rates. Also, companies that seek consultation services from certified professionals can pay more for specialized services.

You can use your certification as a selling point whenever you are looking for clients. In fact, most clients understand the high fees that come with offering specific training.

You can be sure to get a return on investment, whether you are employed or running your business.

The time and resources you spend today on online training certification may seem a lot. However, it is a worthwhile investment with several advantages you cannot afford to miss. You stand a better chance to grow your career and business. 

You don’t have to compromise your career or business while studying. You can gain your certificate while on holiday, vacation, over the weekend, or in between your daily schedules—talk of killing two birds with one stone. 

(Disclaimer: Tyler Read is the owner of ptpioneer.com which is a website dedicated to helping people get started in the personal training industry. The opinions expressed are the personal views of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of Devdiscourse and Devdiscourse does not claim any responsibility for the same.)