Should You Offer CPD Points?
Kai SSG
CPD is used in various ways across our industry from accreditation of courses to certifying masterclasses as meeting requirements for Continuing Professional Development.
CPD points are used to show that an individual is actively keeping their skills and knowledge fresh and up to date. In our industry, where trends, techniques and treatments evolve constantly, it can appear lucrative to include CPD points within your training courses. However, the usefulness of CPD points within our industry will depend heavily on who your target audience is and why they are completing your courses.
Courses that target beginners or those who do not have a qualification in an area should NOT include CPD points as this is not what they are to be used for. This is because a new qualification is not Continuing Professional Development.
In comparison if you are offering masterclasses, workshops and courses that build on someones foundational knowledge. For example, covering skills and techniques that improve someones business then registering your provision for CPD points may be a good idea. It is especially good if the skill you are teaching is not specific to the beauty industry as it allows you to target a wider audience.
It is important to be aware that not all practitioners will see value in CPD points or view it as an incentive to book your courses although this will depend on their working environment. For example, those who work within colleges and larger organisations may be required to prove they have committed to CPD and so see great value in the offer of CPD. In comparison those working solo or in smaller teams may not need CPD points and therefore will book courses based on reviews and content alone.
In a nutshell, you do not NEED to offer CPD points but they can be a great way to incentivise individuals to complete your courses and support those who are required to complete CPD for employment. It also can also set your training apart appealing to a wider audience.
It’s one of those little things that can make a big difference when students are choosing between your course and someone else’s.
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