What are the best ways to land your first job in Digital Learning?

1 Build your portfolio

One of the most important assets you need to have as a digital learning professional is a portfolio that demonstrates your work and achievements. Your portfolio should include samples of your digital learning projects, such as courses, videos, podcasts, infographics, or games. You should also provide some context and reflection on each project, such as the learning objectives, the target audience, the tools and methods used, the challenges and solutions, and the feedback and results. Your portfolio should be accessible online, preferably on your own website or a platform like Behance or Dribbble.

2 Update your resume and cover letter

Your resume and cover letter are the first impression you make on a potential employer, so you need to make them stand out and highlight your relevant skills and experience. Your resume should be concise, clear, and customized for each job application. It should emphasize your accomplishments and results, not just your tasks and responsibilities. Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific role and organization you are applying to, and show your enthusiasm and fit for the position. You should also use keywords and phrases from the job description to match the employer's expectations and requirements.

3 Showcase your skills and knowledge

Besides your portfolio, resume, and cover letter, you also need to demonstrate your skills and knowledge in digital learning through other channels and platforms. For example, you can create a blog, a podcast, a YouTube channel, or a social media account where you share your insights, opinions, and tips on digital learning topics and trends. You can also participate in online courses, webinars, workshops, or certifications to update your skills and show your commitment to continuous learning. You can also join online communities, forums, or groups where you can interact with other digital learning professionals and learn from their experiences and advice.

4 Network with professionals

Networking is a key strategy to find and land your first job in digital learning, as it can help you discover new opportunities, get referrals, and build relationships with potential employers and collaborators. You can network with professionals in various ways, such as attending events, conferences, or meetups related to digital learning; reaching out to people you admire or want to learn from via email, LinkedIn, or Twitter; asking for informational interviews or feedback on your portfolio; or joining mentorship or coaching programs. You should also follow up with your contacts and keep in touch with them until you find your ideal job.

6 Be flexible and persistent

Finally, you need to be flexible and persistent in your job search, as it may take some time and effort to land your first job in digital learning. You should be open to different types of roles, organizations, and locations, and apply to as many jobs as possible that match your skills and interests. You should also be proactive and follow up with your applications, and seek feedback and improvement from your rejections. You should also keep learning, networking, and updating your portfolio, and stay positive and motivated until you achieve your goal.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?