Hello, hello 👋 A big welcome back to I’m Learning Out Loud!

I’ve been quiet over here as I took some time to review my business plans and enjoy the end of summer.

Even though I graduated years ago, I still get those back-to-school vibes when September rolls around. So here’s to a fresh start!

I’m excited to share two big updates with you today. So let’s dive in ⬇️

Update 1: I’m now on The Gram

My account is @BrainOfLaraine if you’d like to connect on there!

You might be wondering, “Why Instagram? Why not LinkedIn or continue to focus on Twitter?”

The short answer: When I listed out my dream clients, I realized they’re all most active on Instagram.

Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of research and reflection to narrow down my target audience (as in clients and students for my future online course). I’ve finally landed on something that aligns well with my mission and values.

As a second-generation Filipina-Canadian, representation matters a lot to me. I’m a big proponent of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), especially in education, the media I consume, and the employers I work for.

Here’s a fun exercise to try: Go to an online course website like Udemy or LinkedIn Learning and look at the section for popular courses or instructors. Who do you see? (I mean the actual courses, not the marketing stock images of instructors.)

And so, to promote more representation in online education, I’m dedicating my business to helping women of colour create digital courses.

I’m betting that Instagram will be the best platform for me to engage with this community.

📌 Think about your dream clients. Find out where they hang out the most (both online and offline). Then start showing up there too! It’ll likely be the best place for you to connect.

Update 2: My freebie is working

Recap: I started a freebie strategy a few months ago. It involves a 1:1 consultation with yours truly, for anyone looking for feedback on their course idea or learning experience map.

I’m pleased to let you know the sessions I’ve had so far have been very insightful. I’m learning a lot about the specific challenges aspiring course creators face.

For example, I was asked about how to properly write quiz questions. Such a specific need that I wouldn’t have known about otherwise.

Speaking 1:1 has been giving me better quality findings than other audience research methods I’ve been trying out. Plus, it’s been a lot of fun brainstorming with people who are passionate about their subject matter expertise!

📌 When researching your target audience, I highly encourage you to speak directly with them. It’s good to mix it in with other research methods you’re using.

Got a course idea and looking for a sounding board to brainstorm with? Let’s chat! Here’s a link to my calendar:

Book a free 1:1 chat

Thanks for reading!

Have a specific question or topic you’d like me to cover? Feel free to drop a comment or message me at brainoflaraine@gmail.com.

Have a great end of week!

Laraine