Stand out as an LxD

Tired of being just another face in the LxD crowd? Why blend in when you can stand out?

Here are 5 steps to help you cultivate a unique style and become an unforgettable force in the learning world.

1/ Beyond the LxD Bubble 🫧

To cultivate a unique style, you need a diverse palette of inspiration. Immerse yourself in different kinds of learning experiences - fitness classes, cooking workshops, art sessions, improv groups, escape rooms – anything that sparks your curiosity.

What can a trapeze class teach you about overcoming fear and building trust? More than you might think.

Capture your observations, insights, and "aha!" moments in a dedicated journal, notebook, or digital space. This becomes your personal inspiration library. That suspense-building technique from your favourite thriller film? It might be the perfect way to introduce a challenging case study.

2. Get the Basics Right ⚙️

Before you can break the rules, you need to know them. Mastering the fundamentals of learning design is essential.

Develop a strong understanding of learning theories, instructional design principles, and adult learning principles – these are the building blocks for your unique style. Think of it like this: you can't riff on jazz if you don't know the scales.

3. Pick a Niche 🔎

LxD is vast, one can’t possibly be good at everything! Trying to be everything to everyone is a recipe for mediocrity.

What's the one thing you want to be known for?

Your niche could be a skill (e.g. facilitation, learning analytics, game-based learning, technology integration) or a specific learning context (e.g. leadership development, employee onboarding, emotional wellbeing). Are you the queen of data-driven design? The master of micro-learning? The guru of gamification? Own it!

Specialisation allows for deeper expertise, increased credibility, clearer brand identity, and attracting targeted opportunities that align with your unique skills and passions. When people think 'gamified learning,' I want them to think of me.

4. Build a Digital Home 🏠

Once you've found your niche, it's time to let the world know. People will only recognise you if they know you exist!

Build a digital home that reflects your unique skills and perspective. This could be a website, a LinkedIn profile, a newsletter or a combination of many. Your online presence is your digital handshake. Make it firm, make it memorable, and make it reflect who you really are.

5. Find a Tribe 👯

Surround yourself with a community of like-minded individuals. Find your LxD soulmates – the people who challenge you, inspire you and make you want to be a better designer.

Partner with other LXD professionals to learn new skills, observe them in action and ask them about how they approached a specific problem.

We do not need to reinvent the wheel.

Chances are someone has already solved a problem that you are struggling with right now. Learn from them!

In a Nutshell 🌰

Developing a unique LxD style is a journey of self-discovery, experimentation, and continuous learning. By embracing these 5 steps, you can break free from the cookie-cutter mold and stand out as an LxD.

So, what are you waiting for?