Certified Learning and Development Professional... After 20 years!

A couple of years ago, toward the tail end of the pandemic, I applied for a leadership training role in the BPO industry. I performed well at every stage of the application process, or so I was told. All my interviewers had wonderful things to say about my work experience. My prayers—along with those of my loved ones—my stamina, and a bit of good luck brought me to the offer stage.

The thoughtful recruitment officer did her best to meet my expected compensation package. She asked if I could enhance my profile with any training certifications or post-graduate degrees. Of course, the answer was a polite no. I took a pay cut for the love of L&D.

It’s not that I don’t believe in certifications; I simply don’t possess the shiny credentials that meet the demands of the new economy. I love learning and exploring concepts, both old and new. If there were a top badge for Google searches, I would surely rank way above super platinum. My L&D knowledge treasure troves include LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, Coursera, YouTube, TED Talks, and good old-fashioned books. I have a diverse army of mentors, friends, and family members who engage me in fun, fruitful, controversial, and progressive conversations about L&D.

A Professional Epiphany

I recently worked on an instructional design project on the subject of "Executive Presence". This project prompted an intense introspection regarding my own hesitant journey to build and cultivate my personal brand. Is my definition of my personal brand reflected in my online presence? I decided to initiate the post-training activities I had drafted for the course participants, particularly focusing on the Personal Brand domain of expertise.

First Step: Find an affordable yet industry-recognized certification program. I'm very happy to report that after 20 years in L&D, I am now a Certified Learning and Development Professional.

Photo posted by our amazing trainer, Jeff Garcia.

Second Step: This blog. I envision this platform as an accessible time capsule of my experiences and learnings from this industry that I love unconditionally. I aspire for new and seasoned L&D practitioners to find a community in this virtual parking lot (trainer speak!).

There are more steps in the drawing board and hundreds of topics to write about. Wherever you are in your own personal journey, I wish you all the best.

Have an enriching week ahead!