How do I find a suitable course?

As an Independent Professional, you will continue to develop yourself. There are always new changes in your field and you need to keep up to date to provide high quality services. For example, you can take training courses. Where can you find a suitable training?

Why take a course?

A certificate not only looks good on your resume, but you also learn something new. You can assure your clients of up-to-date knowledge on the subject of your training. After all, clients find craftsmanship extremely important. “The importance of craftsmanship is increasing and with it proof of craftsmanship: a certificate,” says one client.

How do you look for providers?

You can take training in different ways: classroom, online, in large or small groups or your own pace. When looking for training, you must first ask yourself: how do you want to take this training? Are you someone who wants to learn in groups? Then classroom is not a bad idea. You can network with other Independent Professionals. Do you have little time and want to follow your training at your own pace? Online training is the solution. Find out how the courses are taught before you enroll yourself.

How do I choose a course?

A legal consultant who takes a creative writing course will probably never apply it to his work. Pick a training that is relevant to your work and target audience. There are several providers and each has its own specialization. Of course, a training should be of high quality. Therefore, always read the brochure or information page of the training you want to take. It will tell you how the training goes, what subjects you will study and how the exams are taken. Also ask for experiences of other ZP'ers. 

Supply of training courses

Many organizations offer training and the market is expanding. Even LinkedIn, through an acquisition of Lynda, will soon be offering online video courses. If you get a certificate, it will automatically appear on your LinkedIn page. There are already a number of organizations you can go to. For example, the LOI offers a starter course for ZP'ers, and at ZP Academy you will find a wide range of courses.