Congratulations on completing your first three months as an Outschool educator! You’ve built a strong foundation and navigated the early stages of your journey. Now, it’s time to reflect on your progress and set goals for the next phase: growing your bookings and expanding your impact.
This article will guide you through reflecting on your journey so far, setting meaningful goals, and planning your next steps as you transition from the new educator period to a thriving teaching business.
Reflecting on Your Journey So Far
Take time to celebrate your successes and learn from your challenges. Reflection helps you identify what’s working and where you can improve.
Questions to Consider:
- What were your most significant achievements?
- Example: “I created three classes and received my first positive reviews.”
- What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
- Example: “I struggled with scheduling at first but found times that work well for families.”
- What opportunities excite you moving forward?
- Example: “I want to create advanced classes for returning learners.”
2. Setting Short- and Long-Term Goals
Setting clear goals gives you direction and purpose as you grow your teaching business. Here are some examples of goals you might focus on:
Short-Term Goals (1-3 months):
- Create a new class that complements your existing offerings.
- Increase enrollments in current classes by refining your marketing efforts.
- Experiment with a new time slot to attract a different audience.
Long-Term Goals (6-12 months):
- Develop a full class funnel with beginner, intermediate, and advanced options.
- Reach a new audience, such as homeschool families or learners in different time zones.
- Achieve Rising Star or Star badge status by completing ACE-aligned professional learning and maintaining high ratings.
3. Planning for the Next Phase
Creating Advanced Classes:
- Build on your existing topics to create follow-up or higher-level offerings.
- Example: A beginner art class could evolve into an intermediate series on painting techniques.
Reaching New Audiences:
- Explore untapped audiences, such as homeschoolers or international learners.
- Use tailored marketing strategies to engage these groups.
Growing Your Presence:
- Optimize your class listings and profile to reflect your growth and expertise.
- Participate in professional learning opportunities to continue improving.
Use the goal-setting template below to outline your short- and long-term goals. Use this tool to reflect on your journey, set actionable steps, and plan for the next phase of your Outschool success.
Goal-Setting Template
Section 1: Reflection
- Successes: Write 3 things that went well over the last 3 months.
- Challenges: Note 2-3 obstacles you faced and how you overcame them.
- Opportunities: List 3 opportunities for growth or new ideas you’d like to pursue.
Section 2: Goal Setting
Short-Term Goals (1-3 Months):
- Goal:
- Action Steps:
- Target Date:
Long-Term Goals (6-12 Months):
- Goal:
- Action Steps:
- Milestones to Track Progress:
Section 3: Planning Your Next Steps
- What is the first step you’ll take to work toward your goals?
- Who can you reach out to for support or feedback?
- What resources or professional learning opportunities can help you achieve your goals?
