The non-linear L&D career path is more common than many people realize—and yet, it’s a journey rarely discussed.
Many newcomers to L&D don’t start their careers as learning facilitators or instructional designers. Instead, many of us transition from entirely different functions within the business.
In this article, featuring insights from Jennifer Sutherland, Global Leader of Culture, Learning & Development at Trustwave, we explore six tips that can help you navigate the non-linear nature of an L&D career and set yourself up for success.
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1. Understand the science
Many traditional assumptions about how people learn are no longer relevant or accurate.
“Understand the brain science and stay on top of it because there's still so much out there and still so much coming,” says Jennifer.
People need experiences, space to apply what they learn, and opportunities to practice. Developing a deep understanding of how people learn—and incorporating that knowledge into the design of your learning experiences—can significantly impact your career progression and prepare you for future roles.
2. Leverage the right tech stack
The tech stack you leverage should support your work and provide resources, but it isn’t meant to do all the work.
“It's not always about just the tech. It's how you connect with it,” says Jennifer.
“It's not always about just the tech. It's how you connect with it,” - Jennifer Sutherland.
There’s an abundance of tools and technologies available to create impactful learning experiences. However, the foundation of your success lies in how you integrate these tools within a well-defined framework. Success depends on your ability to utilize the tech effectively and purposefully.
For example, leveraging the right tech stack for strategic L&D can help you maximize efficiency, deliver training at points of need, close skill gaps, and enable business performance.
3. Develop solid key stakeholder relationships
Building solid relationships with key stakeholders, both within and outside your organization, is crucial.
It’s important to get to know them before they need to come to you for assistance. This way, you can have a meaningful conversation when they approach you with a training request.
“One of the success factors in my career is building really good relationships with stakeholders,” says Jennifer.
A strong relationship means you will be able to understand their business, what they do, their goals, and any challenges they face. Understanding their struggles allows you to identify how you can help them. The more you know about them from the start, the more productive your conversations will be.
The more you know about your stakeholder from the start, the more productive your conversations will be.
4. Stay curious
Stay curious, ask why, and avoid making assumptions. Training solutions have evolved and no longer look the way they used to.
They can take many forms, such as quick videos, microlearning modules, or reference guides with action steps. They may also involve communication, virtual training, or eLearning. Training is not a one-time event; it's a process and a journey with various options to explore.
“Stay curious, ask questions, and realize that you can be the expert they expect you to be,” says Jennifer.
Sometimes, you may still have to build the training they request. However, based on all those conversations, you can still make it the best possible training.
5. Build a network
Your network is an invaluable resource. Attend webinars, events, and seminars to expand your connections and gain fresh insights.
“Build that network, but go attend those things. They're free, they're out there, and they will keep you energized and give you ideas and insight,” says Jennifer.
“Build that network, but go attend those things. They're free, they're out there, and they will keep you energized and give you ideas and insight,” - Jennifer.
Take advantage of free vendor offerings to gain knowledge, discover industry trends, and forge new relationships. Jennifer even recommends checking participant lists during webinars to connect with others who contribute valuable insights.
6. Be open to pivoting
Don’t limit yourself. L&D encompasses far more than training design—it’s a gateway to roles in organizational development, DEI, sales enablement, and more.
“The world limits you already, so don't be the one who limits yourself. Look at what else is out there. There are opportunities all around,” says Jennifer.
“The world limits you already, so don't be the one who limits yourself. Look at what else is out there. There are opportunities all around,” - Jennifer.
Consider roles with consulting firms, training companies, or organizations leading DEI initiatives. You can uncover a rewarding and dynamic career path by staying open to new opportunities.
Explore further insights on non-linear L&D careers on the latest episode on The L&D Podcast: Non-Linear Careers in L&D With Jennifer Sutherland
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