First, you need to determine your topic area(s). Don’t forget, you can also take what you do at work and apply it here as well. Are you an effective communicator, a great sales person, an excellent manager? Do you enjoy woodcarving, painting, astrology, sculpting, carpentry, working on engines, working in the garden, golfing, leatherwork…? As you can see, the list is virtually endless. You can find these topics and many, many others in any continuing education catalog. And don’t worry, since most continuing education programs are not degree-related and are intended for community interest, you don’t necessarily need a teaching degree or credentials.

Once you have decided on a topic or two, go online and/or pick up a hardcover catalog of courses and then contact the Directors of Continuing Education at your local high schools, technical/community colleges, and universities. Ask their advice on how to best learn what is necessary to become an instructor at their facility. It will help if you have a preliminary outline of what you want to teach, the proposed hours, and the type of setting. For example, do you plan to cover the subject matter in a full-day workshop or a 2-hour evening session? Be persistent and continue to follow up. You will be surprised how easy it is to become a faculty member at various continuing education centers.

This is an excellent way to leverage what you already know and enjoy into increased income.

Dr.