How to Leverage Online Resources for Salesforce Admin Training

Leveraging online resources for Salesforce Admin training can be highly effective due to the wide variety of materials available. Start with Salesforce Trailhead, Salesforce's free, self-paced learning platform, which offers comprehensive modules from basic to advanced topics. Creating a free Trailhead account allows you to follow specific trails for Salesforce Admin certification, engage in hands-on projects, and earn superbadges to apply your knowledge practically. Complement your Trailhead learning with official Salesforce documentation for detailed and accurate information, and explore structured courses on platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning for more in-depth tutorials.

Additionally, utilize YouTube channels such as Salesforce Support and Mike Wheeler Media for free video tutorials and live Q&A sessions. Join forums like Salesforce Community and Stack Exchange to ask questions, network, and participate in discussions. Practice with a free Salesforce Developer Org to gain hands-on experience, and stay updated with blogs like Salesforce Ben and Admin Hero. Lastly, prepare for certification with study guides, practice exams, and flashcards to ensure you’re ready for the exam. Combining these resources will provide a well-rounded and effective Salesforce Admin training experience.

 

1. Salesforce Trailhead

• What it is: Salesforce's free, self-paced learning platform.
• Why use it: It offers comprehensive modules that cover all aspects of Salesforce, from basic to advanced topics.
• How to use it:
• Sign Up: Create a free Trailhead account.
• Trails and Modules: Follow specific trails for Salesforce Admin certification. Start with the "Admin Beginner" trail and progress to more advanced trails.
• Projects and Superbadges: Engage in hands-on projects and earn superbadges to apply your knowledge practically.

2. Official Salesforce Documentation

• What it is: Detailed documentation provided by Salesforce.
• Why use it: It’s the official source of information, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• How to use it:
• Admin Guide: Read the Salesforce Administrator Guide for an in-depth understanding.
• Release Notes: Stay updated with the latest features and updates through release notes.

3. Online Courses and Tutorials

• Platforms: Udemy, Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, Pluralsight.
• Why use them: Structured learning paths, often with practical examples and projects.
• How to use them:
• Search for Salesforce Admin courses: Look for highly rated courses.
• Follow along with the exercises: Ensure you practice alongside watching tutorials.

4. YouTube Channels

• Channels: Salesforce Support, Mike Wheeler Media, Salesforce Hulk.
• Why use them: Free video tutorials that are often updated with the latest Salesforce trends and features.
• How to use them:
• Subscribe to relevant channels: Watch beginner to advanced level playlists.
• Live streams and Q&A: Participate in live sessions for real-time learning.

5. Salesforce Community and Forums

• Platforms: Salesforce Community, Reddit, Stack Exchange.
• Why use them: Get answers to specific questions and network with other Salesforce professionals.
• How to use them:
• Join communities: Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share knowledge.
• Attend events: Participate in virtual and local Salesforce community events and user groups.

6. Practice with a Salesforce Developer Org

• What it is: A free Salesforce environment for development and practice.
• Why use it: Gain hands-on experience without the risk of impacting a production environment.
• How to use it:
• Sign Up: Create a free Developer Org account.
• Experiment: Implement the knowledge gained from Trailhead and courses in a real Salesforce environment.

7. Blogs and Podcasts

• Examples: Salesforce Ben, Admin Hero, The Salesforce Admins Podcast.
• Why use them: Stay updated with tips, tricks, and the latest news in the Salesforce ecosystem.
• How to use them:
• Regular reading/listening: Integrate these into your daily or weekly learning routine.
• Apply insights: Use the practical advice and insights shared in your learning and practice.

8. Certification Preparation

• Resources: Focus on Salesforce Admin Certification Exam guides, practice exams, and flashcards.
• Why use them: Structured preparation tailored to passing the certification exam.
• How to use them:
  • Study guides: Follow official and third-party certification study guides.
  • Practice exams: Take multiple practice exams to gauge your readiness and identify areas for improvement.