Certification Advice #1: PARTICIPATE! PARTICIPATE! PARTICIPATE!
It's easy to listen to the course instructor talk about the client and their system you will be utilizing. But the key to confirming our understanding of what is being taught is to PARTICIPATE throughout the course.
Instructor asks a question and you're not sure you have the answer? Raise your hand anyway and reply when called upon. You might surprise yourself! If you have the wrong answer, its OK, you'll be told the right answer.
Participate in group discussions and role plays. How else are you going to learn how to interact with a customer if you don't get the practice and advice before hand?Remember Certification is a safe place to give wrong answers and stumble over a few words during role play. IT GETS EASIER, I PROMISE! :)
Certification Advice #2: GET CONNECTED!
GET CONNECTED with your classmates! Who better to practice your new learned skills and role play than with someone who is on the same learning path as you?
Exchange emails (mobile, if comfortable) and set up a practice/discussion after class! :) Your classmates, once certified, will be your teammates! Work together towards a common goal, creating stories of success!
Certification Advice #3: USE YOUR RESOURCES!!
You will have many resources that your instructor will cover to be successful all the way to passing your certification and beyond. USE THEM! My favorite resource during the course period was replaying that days' recording. YES! You can actually go back into your Blackboard and listen/watch your cert class for that day along with previous days ON YOUR OWN TIME!
Certification Advice #4: ASK QUESTIONS!
Some may say, "well that's a no brainer!" Those same folks would be the ones to be stuck, get frustrated and may even give up. No matter how small or big the question may seem to you, ask it! You may have the same question as someone else who's afraid to ask.
Your question has been answered but you still do not understand? Rephrase your question and ask again and discuss it until you understand.
Certification Advice #5: UTILIZE YOUR INSTRUCTORS' KNOWLEDGE!
The Course Instructors are available outside of class times. Need further assistance or clarifications?! Please reach out to your instructor either in class to see if they are available, or through an email with detailed information and they will reply back.
Certification Advice #6: BREATHE, RELAX, YOU GOT THIS!
I know going into a new field of work, whether it be a new client, a new line/type of support, or just simply new to working from home, can be scary and daunting at times. DON'T WORRY, you have a whole team backing YOU!
We can catch you if you allow us to, but you must communicate your need :)
NOW LET'S GET YOU CERTIFIED!
