Bridging the Training Gap: The Journey of a Zillennial Instructional Designer
As a Zillennial who entered the workforce directly after graduating undergrad, I had certain expectations about how my employers would view and support my growth. Like many of my peers, I anticipated being seen as an empty vessel, ready to be filled with the training, wisdom, and industry knowledge needed to excel in my role. However, my early experiences were mixed - some workplaces provided the necessary training, while others offered little to no guidance. These contrasting experiences ignited a passion within me and ultimately led me to embrace the role of an Instructional Designer, advocating for improved training practices in the modern workforce.
Reflecting on my journey, I often wonder why companies assume that everything essential can be taught in a classroom setting by professors. The reality is that some aspects of a job can only be learned on-the-job, guided by individuals who possess industry knowledge and expertise - these individuals are known as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). Unfortunately, not all SMEs have the time or ability to translate their knowledge into comprehensive training programs or job aids. This gap in training and development is where the expertise of trainers and instructional designers becomes crucial.
My own frustration with the lack of on-the-job training I received propelled me towards becoming an Instructional Designer. This title encompasses my passion for creating effective training programs that empower employees and bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application. It saddens me to think that my generation often receives little-to-no training support after being hired, hindering our professional growth and potential.
While training may seem like an elaborate expense or a luxury for some organizations, the reality is that it yields high returns on investment for those who prioritize it. Understandably, budgets vary across different companies, but there are opportunities to work with trainers and instructional designers as freelancers or through their own companies. This approach allows businesses to benefit from customized training solutions tailored to their specific needs and budgets.
Interestingly, instructional design is not limited to corporate settings alone. Many educators are turning to training, development, and instructional design as an alternative career path after feeling unsupported in traditional classrooms. This shift has led to a growing number of available instructional designers eager to contribute their skills to various industries and organizations.
The instructional design community is a vibrant one, with passionate professionals seeking experience to enhance their resumes. Many of us are enthusiastic about collaborating with organizations to develop comprehensive training programs. Our shared goal is to create meaningful and impactful learning experiences that benefit both employees and businesses alike.
As a Zillennial Instructional Designer, I strive to bring awareness to the importance of on-the-job training and its transformative impact on the workforce. While some organizations may perceive training as an added expense, the benefits it offers in terms of employee development and business growth cannot be overlooked. The emergence of instructional designers as valuable resources presents exciting opportunities for organizations to invest in effective training solutions that empower their workforce for success. Together, we can bridge the training gap and foster a culture of continuous learning, ensuring a brighter future for employees and businesses alike.