Giving feedback is just as beneficial as receiving feedback, because it makes us think, reflect, and consider other views as well. How do you use feedback?
Are you reflective? Or do you dismiss it as someone having a bad day?
Here Merinda considers ways for you to use it to your advantage.
I like to think of a successful RTO manager as being akin to an architect; developing the educational blueprint that shapes the learning experience. They must possess a keen eye for industry relevance, whilst staying attuned to the needs of students and industries. They need
As an RTO owner you know only too well that your health impacts the business, the people, and operations. People say one of the hardest things you can do is run your own business. There is no time to get sick. Here are tips that you can implement immediately to support you and your team.
The decision to set up and embark on the journey of setting up your RTO can be daunting. There are countless what-ifs, worries, and fears that can plague the mind of a prospective RTO owner. However, amidst these uncertainties, one thing remains certain: the best time to plant the seeds of your RTO venture is now. In my years of running my consultancy, I’ve had numerous conversations with individuals interested in developing their own RTO. Surprisingly, many of them choose to postpone their plans following our initial discussion. They adopt a “wait and see” approach, hoping for the perfect moment to take action. However, time passes, and after 2, 3, or even 5 years, some return, saying, “Remember me?” And indeed, I do. The reality is, while they were waiting, the landscape of RTO standards and regulations has evolved significantly. Their ideas, were once a feasible endeavour and the delay now presents new challenges and complexities. Compliance requirements have become more stringent, regulatory bodies have implemented changes, and the process of establishing an RTO has become more demanding. The window of opportunity they had envisioned may have closed, leaving them scrambling to catch up with the latest requirements and expectations. However, all hope is not lost. With the right guidance and determination, it’s still possible to navigate these challenges and realize their dream of owning and operating a successful RTO. You can’t alter the past; what’s done is done. Whether it’s been 20 years or 20 minutes since you first considered starting your own RTO, dwelling on missed opportunities or past hesitations serves no purpose other than to hinder progress. Regretting missed chances only serves to dampen your spirits and diminish the likelihood of taking action in the present moment. It’s natural for the brain to resist change. Just like the reluctance you might feel towards going for a run or hitting the gym, despite knowing the benefits it brings, your brain will conjure up all sorts of reasons why you shouldn’t embark on this new journey. It will present you with an array of fears, doubts, and uncertainties, all designed to keep you within your comfort zone. But here’s the truth: those fears are just illusions. Your brain is wired to seek comfort and avoid risk, even if change is ultimately the best thing for you. The time to challenge these fears and take action is now. The longer you wait, the more power you give to those doubts and the less likely you are to make a change. Setting up an RTO is undoubtedly a significant undertaking, but it’s also a rewarding one. It’s a chance to make a positive impact on the lives of learners, contribute to the development of skills and knowledge in your community, and create a business that aligns with your values and passions. The lesson here is clear: procrastination only leads to missed opportunities and increased difficulty down the road. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, it’s essential to seize the opportunity when it presents itself. By taking decisive action and seeking expert assistance early on, aspiring RTO owners can position themselves for success and avoid unnecessary setbacks caused by changes in regulations and standards. It’s never too late to start. So, seize the moment. Embrace the uncertainty and the fear, knowing that on the other side lies growth, fulfillment, and success. The time to plant the seeds of your RTO venture is now. Take that first step, and watch as your dreams begin to take root and flourish. The time to act is now. Remember, the best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is now.
The Key to RTO Success is providing an exceptional student experience. When students encounter excellence at an RTO, they naturally become ambassadors, sharing their positive experiences with others. Conversely, subpar experiences can lead to negative word-of-mouth, potentially damaging an RTO’s reputation. Sadly, humans have a tendency to remember negative experiences more vividly than positive ones. This psychological phenomenon, known as negativity bias, suggests that negative RTO experiences might be more easily recalled and shared. Both positive and negative experiences are shared through word-of-mouth. The power of word-of-mouth marketing for RTOs relies on students remembering and communicating the quality of their experiences, not just the fact that they had an experience. These authentic endorsements carry significant weight in influencing potential students’ decisions. Positive experiences shared by peers are perceived as more trustworthy than traditional marketing materials, making them a powerful and cost-effective promotional tool. Positive testimonials amplify an RTO’s reputation, making it more attractive to potential students and employers. This can lead to increased enrolments and partnerships So how do we harness this power? Delivering Relevant and Aligned Content Create an experience that is worth talking about Encourage students to share their experiences on social media platforms. Regularly collect and act on student feedback to continuously improve your offerings. Delivering Relevant and Aligned Content A key aspect of creating an exceptional student experience is providing content that is directly applicable to learners’ needs and aligned with industry objectives. This ensures that students receive education and training that meet industry needs, making them more employable. I recall a leadership training session, where the facilitator, Sarah, began speaking, and I knew the course was going to be different. Her energy was infectious, and she immediately engaged us with a thought-provoking question about our biggest leadership challenges. The room lit up with everyone contributing. As I listened to my peers share their experiences, I realised I wasn’t alone in my struggles. As the course continued we didn’t just learn theories; we practiced them in real-time through role-playing exercises and case studies based on our actual work situations. Everyone loved it and there was always a high energy vibe in the room. What truly made this training valuable was the follow-up. We weren’t just sent back to our jobs with a binder full of notes. Instead, we were paired with accountability partners and had monthly check-ins with Sarah to discuss how we were implementing our new skills. Six months after the course, I noticed a significant improvement in my team’s performance and morale. I was communicating more effectively, delegating with confidence, and fostering a more collaborative environment. My supervisor noticed too, and I was given additional responsibilities as a result. I raved about this training session to anyone who would listen. I am sure I sent at least 50 students to them. This is what I am talking about, an experience that people rave about. To achieve this: Regularly update course materials to reflect the latest industry trends and technologies. Involve industry professionals in content development to ensure relevance. Clearly connect course content to learning objectives and real-world applications. Incorporating e-learning into your RTO’s offerings can significantly enhance the student experience. E-learning has been shown to increase student performance, with research indicating that students retain 25-60% more information through online learning compared to traditional classroom settings. Key benefits of e-learning include: Higher student engagement through multimedia materials. Flexibility for students to learn at their own pace. Better data and analytics tracking for continuous improvement. Creating Engaging Learning Environments To create an exceptional student experience, focus on : Providing personalised learning that caters to different learning styles. Provide opportunities for students to apply new skills in real-world scenarios. Incorporate teamwork and peer-to-peer learning. Include follow-up activities to support long-term retention. This approach helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, leading to better learning outcomes and improved performance in the workplace. From a faciliators perspective it is always wonderful to see those lightbulb moments as participants connected theory to practice. Watching people discover new techniques and immediately apply them in mock scenarios are often a highlight of the day. Gathering and Acting on Feedback Great training programs are regularly evaluated and updated based on feedback and changing needs. This can be done through: Surveys at different stages of the student journey. Focus groups to gain deeper insights. An open-door policy encouraging students to share their thoughts and concerns. All of these areas will assist you to get that valuable student feedback – the one where they market your RTO and it’s services to others. By focusing on creating exceptional student experiences, RTOs can build a strong reputation, increase enrolments, and create a community of satisfied learners who become brand ambassadors. Remember, the student experience is not just a nice-to-have – it is a critical factor in your RTO’s success.
In 2024 the journey of an entrepreneur is constantly being filled with challenges that allow us to think differently, or look from a different perspective creating opportunities. In a recent survey encompassing 341 business owners both in Australia and globally, findings indicate that a considerable portion of small business proprietors remains optimistic about their sales prospects in 2024, despite encountering diverse challenges. The study sheds light on the ambitious goals of entrepreneurs, placing particular emphasis on their intentions to establish new partnerships, systemize and scale their enterprises, and elevate overall sales. The surveyed business owners, a majority of whom fall within the 43-58 age range (59%), express enthusiasm about their future endeavours, eagerly anticipating the opportunities that the year 2024 holds for their businesses. Recognizing the benefits of forging new partnerships, streamlining operations, and expanding the business as fundamental is a testament to entrepreneurship. The journey encompassing these strategies indeed presents challenges, but it is in overcoming these obstacles that businesses uncover their genuine capacity for growth and innovation. Creating New Partnerships and Collaborations One of the standout findings from the survey is the eagerness of entrepreneurs to explore new partnerships and collaborations. Through strategic alliances, businesses can tap into diverse expertise, share resources, and co-create innovative solutions. Maybe you want to add training to your business. If this is the case you could partner with an RTO that has the scope you need. For those considering setting up their own RTO, forging strategic alliances can be a game-changer. Partnering with industry leaders, educational institutions, and other businesses can provide access to valuable resources, networks, and expertise. These collaborations not only enhance the credibility of your RTO but also open doors to new opportunities and markets. These partnerships enrich the business and contribute to the broader community impact, fostering a culture of collaboration and collective growth. Beyond the immediate business gains, the partnerships become a catalyst for positive change, promoting a collaborative ethos that benefits both the involved enterprises and the communities they serve. Systematising for Success The significance of systematising and expanding your operations cannot be emphasised enough. Systemisation, in essence, entails the development of efficient and repeatable processes that can be consistently applied, thereby mitigating the risk of errors and streamlining workflows. Recently, in a conversation with a consultant specialising in this field, she underscored the importance of helping small business owners systematise their operations to enhance the potential for selling their businesses. Despite her recommendation to implement this strategy from the outset, many clients tend to address it only when contemplating a sale. The drawback of delaying systemisation until the decision to sell arises lies in the lack of solidified systems and the absence of a history of continuous improvement. Taking proactive steps to implement such systems from the inception of the business ensures a more robust foundation and facilitates smoother processes, ultimately contributing to the overall success of the enterprise. Looking at scaling options Scaling refers to expanding your business to reach new markets and capitalise on growth opportunities. If you believe that an RTO (Registered Training Organisation) could play a pivotal role in helping your business scale and capturing untapped markets, it’s essential to explore this avenue. An RTO can provide specialised training programs, certifications, and educational resources that not only enhance your workforce’s skills but also position your business as a credible player in new markets. By leveraging the capabilities of an RTO, you not only invest in the professional development of your team but also demonstrate a commitment to quality and expertise in your industry. This can be particularly advantageous when venturing into new markets where establishing trust and credibility is crucial for success. Incorporating an RTO into your scaling strategy allows you to align your business with industry standards, adhere to best practices, and foster a culture of continuous learning. This, in turn, enhances your competitive edge and opens doors to previously unexplored opportunities. Consider the strategic integration of an RTO as a proactive step toward not only scaling your business but also solidifying its presence in emerging markets. Overcoming Challenges: While the survey revealed the optimistic outlook of business owners, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges they face. Business environments are constantly evolving, and adaptability is key to overcoming challenges. Being flexible in your approach allows you to adjust to unforeseen circumstances, market shifts, and changes in consumer behaviour. This is where the presence of a mentor or a coach becomes invaluable. While mentors bring experience and wisdom from their own journeys, coaches specialise in facilitating structured growth and development. A mentor serves as a guiding force, providing a wealth of experience, wisdom, and insights that can significantly impact your personal and professional growth. Their perspective, shaped by years of industry expertise, can prove invaluable in shaping your own strategies and approaches. Through collaborative discussions, a coach can help you define clear, achievable objectives and create a roadmap to attain them. This process ensures that your efforts are aligned with your overarching vision and that each step taken contributes meaningfully to your success. Creating new partnerships, systemising operations, and scaling the business are recognised as pivotal strategies for success. The journey may be challenging, but with the right mindset and strategic approach, the rewards are boundless. In summary, the recognition of creating partnerships, systemising operations, and scaling the business as pivotal strategies for success is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives on adaptability, collaboration, and strategic thinking. With the right mentorship, to stay the course, face the storm, and do it afraid you can realise your dream. Whether you choose to set up your own RTO or simply collaborate for success you can embark on a journey, where challenges become the fuel for growth, and the rewards are indeed boundless. If you think you need a business mentor or to set up your RTO connect with RTO Mentor to discuss your situation.
Sometimes that something is a loss of passion. Often we don’t even know what it is, we might say “we’ve lost our mojo, desire or whatever”.
For me I really needed that direction and having been on one of your courses and now had you facilitate got the trainers in that workshop – I would have to say you are a pro at tailoring your approach the for your audience.
By implementing a comprehensive marketing system, your RTO can effectively reach and engage prospective students, ultimately contributing to the growth and success of your educational institution. You are passionate about your industry, you want to help people. So you decided to have an RTO. You knew that by becoming an RTO you can help one person at a time. You got your registration and you started to deliver your training. Your clients come in small doses, and you still love helping others, yet are you still having fun? Maybe not, maybe it’s becoming too hard. Your business needs to pay you a profit, and when it doesn’t do that the fun dries up. You become stressed, and you stop loving your business. When you have a system in place to drive clients to your door, the fun keeps going and help more people. You can help more people for longer when your business is solvent. This reduces your stress, and allows you the time and energy to care about your business, your staff and stakeholders. Marketing your business is a key component of its operations. It is through your marketing consistently that your receive students. With all the systems required to set up in your RTO, so often marketing systems are missed. Marketing involves all aspects of someone never hearing about your services, to signing them up, delivering the course and then having those satisfied students telling others about your amazing courses. This of course is called word-of-mouth marketing – it’s free and when done well it can help your business to boom. One of the observations I’ve made whilst working with RTOs is this whole process of marketing is not being considered. The RTO Standards say your RTO must honour all commitments made in any marketing or advertising materials. All information on any advertising or marketing material referring to your RTO and training and assessment must be accurate. People manage to do this, mostly, yet they neglect having a marketing system. Another observation is RTO’s love to deliver their courses to ‘everyone”. Yet the reality is when you niche down and only deliver your courses to a specific sector, you actually become known for that, and get more clients. Let me explain, when you have a leadership qualification on scope you can market to everyone. Yet if you marketed just to the plumbing sector it enables you to be super clear about how you serve your audience. You then become known within the value you bring to the sector with your leadership courses. You market just to them, increase your profits because you are not marketing to everyone; and they talk about you – in a positive way. This reduces your marketing costs, increases your trust and credibility and reduces your competition. WIN, WIN, WIN. Market Research Communication with your stakeholders will help you find out where your niche is. Conduct thorough market research to understand the demand for training programs in your niche. Identify your target audience, their needs, and preferences. Analyze competitors to identify unique selling points. It also needs to be a part of your marketing system. You need to know what they want. You need to be regularly asking them simple questions like What do they actually want? What has changed since I last asked you? How long should the course be? What problems are they facing right now? What specifics do they need training in? Continuously improving your approach to regulation will help your clients, students and your RTO compliance. NCVER reports that micro credentials are on the rise. This means working with the qualifications you have already on scope, and maybe selecting just one or maybe two units and creating a course for your clients where their greatness needs are. Develop a system for your marketing that includes a process for this whole client experience will allow your RTO to be successful. Going from not knowing about you to having testimonials and word-of-mouth marketing. Include in your process how you cover off on all the requirements of your RTO Standards. Systematic monitoring and evaluation provides your RTO self-assurance. Branding and Positioning Establish a strong and memorable brand identity. Clearly communicate your RTO’s values, mission, and unique offerings. Position your organization as a reliable and quality-driven education provider. Managing your risk is about having a systematic approach and critically examining your approach. You need to demonstrate how you monitor your systems, and this includes your marketing. Give yourself a strategy that is going to move your RTO forward. Content Marketing Develop a content marketing strategy to showcase your expertise in your industry and to engage your audience. Create valuable content such as blog posts, articles, social posts of successful students, and videos that address industry trends, career advice, and relevant topics. (Make sure you meet the RTO Standards on photos and content). Leverage social media platforms to connect with your audience. Share educational content, updates, and success stories. Engage with your followers, respond to inquiries, and participate in relevant conversations. Email list Build and maintain an email list to communicate directly with prospective students. Gather emails from your social posts. Send targeted newsletters to potential students, course updates, and promotional offers. Personalise your emails to enhance engagement. Attend Industry Events Participate in relevant conferences, trade shows, and networking events within your industry sector and within the education sector. These events provide opportunities to connect with potential students, industry professionals, and partners. Looking for support? If you need some help, then I can be there to support you. Book in for a discovery call – it’s a free 15 minute online call. What are you going to do over the next 6, 12 months to ensure you are complaint, and have a sustainable business? If you need some help, then I can be there to support you. Book in for a discovery call – it’s a free 15 minute online call. BOOK HERE Strategy planning Move from being exhausted and lacking clarity and focus to
The new RTO Privacy Notice no longer requires Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to collect and keep a record of student consent. RTOs are still required to provide the RTO Privacy Notice to all students at enrolment. The new format removes the need to record and report student consent, making the enrolment process simpler.
Assessment validation is a quality review process – one that is needed within your RTO. It involves a person or a team of people evaluating assessment tools and the ensuing student evidence.
Fees and charges relief for RTOs.
ASQA will waive or reimburse some fees and charges for VET providers and accredited course owners.