Everybody was Kung-Fu Training

Have you ever listened to the classic 1970s Carl Douglas hit Kung Fu Fighting without performing karate chops? The answer is ‘no’ because it’s not possible. There’s just something about the song that convinces you you’re a Kung Fu master and makes you punch, kick and shout random ‘Huh’s and ‘Ha’s around your living room. But then the song ends, and you realise you look foolish and that you should probably get back to vacuuming.

Lately, it seems like the e-learning industry has taken a page out of that song’s playbook.

But instead of society suddenly performing high kicks and roundhouses, we’ve got hordes of established e-learning developers ditching their bread-and-butter gigs to become training consultants for the next wave of e-learning ninjas. What’s driving this mass exodus?

Is e-learning kicking ass or on its arse?

In recent years, the e-learning industry has been booming. Thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic, organisations worldwide have ramped up their online learning initiatives. And just like in the heyday of the dot-com boom, there was more work than developers knew what to do with. But with the good times came the inevitable question: How sustainable is this?

Well, it turns out that not everyone believes the boom will last forever. Some savvy e-learning pros are reading the writing on the wall and realising that with the advent of AI, the landscape is about to change - drastically. Why build a course from scratch when AI can do it in minutes? Sure, the tech isn’t perfect yet, but it’s good enough to make a lot of people rethink their careers.

Is the economy about to sweep the leg from under you?

The economy is another factor causing developers to reconsider their paths. While e-learning was a safe haven during the height of the pandemic, the zen waters are getting choppier. Inflation, rising costs, and budget cuts are hitting businesses hard. Clients are starting to look for ways to cut costs, and unfortunately, that often means slashing training budgets. Suddenly, those lucrative contracts don’t look so steady.

For many developers, this is their Daniel LaRusso moment: learn a new skill or take a beating. If clients are cutting back, why not shift to a model where you’re less dependent on their whims? Training and consultancy offer that independence, allowing developers to set their own rates and control their schedules. If Mr Myagi can train a skinny kid from New Jersey to beat Cobra Kai and win the All Valley Karate Championship, you can train wannabe e-learning bods how to create awesome online platforms and courses.

The AI assassin

Now, let’s talk AI. While some developers see AI as the enemy - something that will take their jobs and leave them in the dust - others see it as the next big opportunity. By positioning themselves as the go-to experts on how to leverage AI in e-learning, these developers are staying ahead of the curve.

It’s a classic case of “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.” Or better yet, teach others how to beat ‘em. These forward-thinking developers are starting their own training businesses, not just to survive but to thrive. They’re offering coaching services on how to create more effective, AI-enhanced e-learning content. In a world where AI can do the heavy lifting, the human touch - strategy, creativity, and that allimportant empathy - becomes the differentiator.

The lure of the small business lifestyle

But it’s not just the economy or AI that’s driving this shift. The small business lifestyle has its own appeal. Many e-learning developers have been working as freelancers for years, and they’ve had enough of the feast-or-famine cycle. Starting a training or consultancy business offers a more predictable revenue stream. Plus, there’s something undeniably attractive about being your own boss.

Instead of dealing with the whims of clients, they can focus on building their own brand, setting their own agenda, and working with clients on their own terms. It’s like opening your own dojo after years of training under someone else - you finally get to set the rules and decide which techniques to teach.

Counterpunch - is becoming a trainer really the smart move?

Of course, this trend isn’t without its critics. Some argue that this mass shift could flood the market with too many trainers and consultants, leading to oversaturation. If everyone’s teaching, who’s left to do the actual work? And let’s not forget the potential for burnout. Running your own business is no jog in the park - it takes time, effort, and a whole lot of hustle.

Plus, with so many jumping on the bandwagon, standing out in the crowd is going to be tougher than ever. How do you differentiate yourself when everyone and their dog is offering e-learning training services?

The Final Showdown: Is this the future?

So, is this wave of developers turning into trainers and consultants a flash in the pan, or is it the future of the industry? It’s hard to say for sure, but one thing’s certain: The e-learning world is changing fast. Those who adapt, innovate, and continue to offer value - whether through teaching or creating - are the ones who will come out on top.

The best fighters in a kung fu movie are the ones who know how to read the room, anticipate their opponent’s next move, and adapt their strategy on the fly. Whether you’re staying in the ring as a developer or stepping into the role of trainer, the key is to stay nimble, keep learning, and never stop evolving. If everybody really is kung fu training, you don’t want to get left behind - the real masters in this industry know that there’s always more to learn.

5 Top Tips To Become A Training Consultant

So, you’ve decided to make the leap from e-learning developer to training consultant. You’ve got the skills, the experience, and the passion - but now what? Here are five top tips to help you successfully transition into your new role as an e-learning training consultant.

1. Find Your Niche and Own It

Just like in e-learning development, specialisation is key. The e-learning field is vast, so hone in on what you know best and where you can offer the most value. Are you a whiz with AI tools? A pro at designing engaging microlearning modules? Focus on that niche and build your brand around it. When you become the go-to expert in a specific area, you’ll find it easier to attract clients who need exactly what you offer.

2. Build a Strong Personal Brand

Your brand is your new business card. Start by creating a professional website, blog, or portfolio showcasing your work and expertise. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn to share insights, tips, and industry trends. Remember, consistency is key- your online presence should reflect your brand’s values and your unique approach to e-learning. This is how potential clients will get to know you and, more importantly, trust you.

3. Network Like a Pro

Networking isn’t just about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections - it’s about building genuine relationships. Attend industry conferences, webinars, and local meetups. Engage in online forums and groups where e-learning professionals hang out. Don’t just talk about what you do; listen to others’ needs, offer advice, and collaborate. Networking can lead to referrals, partnerships, and even new business opportunities you hadn’t considered.

4. Develop a Scalable Service Offering

As a consultant, time is money, so think about how you can maximise both. Create a range of service packages that cater to different client needs and budgets. This might include one-onone coaching, group workshops, or even online courses that clients can take at their own pace. Scalability is crucial - it allows you to serve more clients without burning out.

5. Stay Ahead of Industry Trends

The e-learning world is evolving rapidly, especially with the rise of AI and new learning technologies. To stay competitive, you need to be ahead of the curve. Subscribe to industry newsletters, take advanced courses, and experiment with the latest tools. Clients will come to you not just for your current expertise but for your ability to guide them through what’s next.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful e-learning training consultant. Remember, transitioning into this new role is a journey - one that requires patience, persistence, and a commitment to continuous learning. But with the right approach, you’ll soon find yourself at the top of your game, helping the next generation of e-learning professionals kickstart their own careers.