Let’s be honest, if your company has Cisco Learning Credits (CLCs), you either know exactly how to use them, or you don’t really know where to start. And if you’re in the second group, you’re not alone.
In my daily work, I talk to people who want to get better at what they do, whether that’s deploying Cisco solutions, troubleshooting networks, or just staying up to date in this fast-changing IT world. Many of them have CLCs available but aren’t quite sure how to use them in a way that brings actual value.
So let me share a few thoughts, not as a salesperson, but as someone who’s helped dozens of teams make smarter training choices with their Cisco credits.
The problem with wasted CLCs
Here’s the thing: Cisco Learning Credits are valuable. But they’re not a magic key. If you don’t use them well, they can go to waste. Literally. I’ve seen situations where CLCs expired before anyone even realised they were there.
And even worse, sometimes companies do use them, but on the wrong training and that can be just as damaging. Imagine sending an experienced engineer to an overly basic course, or a beginner to an expert-level one. It’s frustrating, unproductive, and a waste of time and credits.
So, what’s the right way to use CLCs?
In my opinion, it starts with three things:
- Understanding your actual skill gaps – what’s missing? What’s blocking you or your team from being more effective?
- Choosing the right course – not just the “popular” one, but the one that moves the needle for you.
- Using your CLCs smartly – making sure you don’t just spend them but invest them.
That’s exactly where NIL Learning comes in.
We work directly with our clients to map out what they already know, what they need to learn, and what the best learning path is for each role or person. Then we help them use their CLCs for a training that supports their goals.
CLCs are more flexible than you think
CLCs can be spent for the following options with NIL Learning: standard Cisco ILT trainings, e-learning (Cisco U.) and even NIL-owned tailored trainings. The important part is that you have options! You can benefit even if you are left with one single CLC.
The important part is: you have options. You just need someone who knows how to navigate them.
What we offer at NIL Learning
We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. We listen first, then recommend. We don’t push products, we guide decisions.
If you work with us, we’ll:
- Help you assess what training actually makes sense for your team
- Make sure your CLCs are used before they expire
- Recommend smart ways to stretch your credits further
- Be your long-term learning partner (and consultant), not just a vendor
Final thought – use your CLCs with purpose
At the end of the day, CLCs are there to help you grow. But the value you get depends entirely on how you use them.
If you’d like to make sure you’re using your credits in a way that supports your goals, whether that’s upskilling your team, getting certified, or building new capabilities, we’d be glad to support you.
Take a look at our CLC page and when you’re ready to make the most of your learning credits, reach out to us. Let’s build a smarter training plan together.