Navigating Your Instructional Design Career: A GPS for Success

In the ever-evolving world of instructional design, transitioning between industries can feel overwhelming. In episode 105 of the Designing with Love podcast, Jackie Pelegrin offers invaluable insights to help instructional designers confidently navigate their careers and find the perfect fit across various fields.

Understanding Your Unique Value

Before diving into new industries, it's essential to clarify your strengths as an instructional designer. Jackie emphasizes the importance of identifying your "always strengths"—skills that you bring to every project, like simplifying complex information and aligning learning objectives. Additionally, consider your preferred work mode, whether it's collaborative or independent, and establish your non-negotiables, such as remote work or salary expectations. A helpful prompt Jackie suggests is, "If I could only be hired for one thing in instructional design, what would it be?" This self-reflection sets the stage for a successful career transition.

Translating Your Skills Across Industries

Once you understand your strengths, the next step is to translate your skills into the language of the new industry you’re targeting. Jackie points out that while the work in instructional design may be similar across fields, the terminology can vary significantly. For example, corporate environments may focus on terms like "performance" and "KPIs," while higher education emphasizes "pedagogy" and "student success metrics." Adapting your resume and portfolio to reflect this language can make a substantial difference in how you are perceived by potential employers.

Evaluating Your Work Environment

Jackie introduces the Pace, People, Process Framework, to help you assess whether a potential job is a good fit. Consider the pace of the work environment: Is it fast-paced like a startup, or more structured like academia? Evaluate the people you will be working with—are they available and supportive? Finally, think about the processes in place: Is there a clear workflow, or is it chaotic? Finding alignment in these areas ensures that you thrive in your new role.

Creating a Bridge Portfolio

A strong portfolio is crucial when transitioning industries. Jackie advises against creating an entirely new portfolio for each field. Instead, develop a "bridge portfolio" that demonstrates how your skills transfer across industries. This can include before-and-after redesigns, storyboards, and clear measurements of impact. A clever approach is to take one case study and present it in two different industry languages, showcasing your versatility and ability to adapt.

Targeting Your Job Applications

Finally, Jackie shares effective strategies for landing a role. Rather than applying to every job, she recommends focusing on two or three industries for a set period. Use the "job post mirror method" to align your resume with the specific terms used in job postings. Additionally, engage in networking through thoughtful outreach and informational interviews. Remember, the goal is to become someone’s obvious choice, not just a candidate among many.

Conclusion and Key Takeaway

In summary, navigating your instructional design career across industries doesn't require starting from scratch. By understanding your strengths, translating your skills, evaluating work environments, creating a bridge portfolio, and targeting your applications, you can confidently embark on a successful career transition. Key takeaways include the importance of self-reflection, adapting language for new industries, and building connections that support your journey.

🔗 Resources and Related Episodes:

If you would like to explore today's topic further, here are a few resources to check out:

📝 Canva Template

ID Career GPS Checklist: A worksheet to help you identify your identity, translate your experience across industries, choose the right environment, and target your next role with confidence.

🎧 Listen Next: Related Episodes

Episode 99: Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your ID Portfolio: A step-by-step house-style blueprint for building an ID portfolio that highlights your judgment, shows measurable impact, and makes it effortless to find your best work.

Episode 101: Networking Tips that Advance Your ID Career: Discover smart, low-stress ways to build connections that can genuinely move your career forward.

Photo by Sasha P: https://www.pexels.com/photo/dashboard-in-a-car-9831819/