This Tip lists the ingredients in a recipe for an effective trainer, beginning with training being about the learner, not the trainer.
“The fact is that it takes more than ingredients and technique to cook a good meal. A good cook puts something of himself into the preparation — he cooks with enjoyment, anticipation, spontaneity, and he is willing to experiment.” Pearl Bailey
The Characteristics of Effective Trainers
In no particular order, effective trainers:
Know training is abouit the learner and care about people
- recognize that training programs are about the learner, not the trainer;
- care about people;
Are resilient and flexible
- are resilient;
- are flexible to adapt to the specific needs and learning styles of the participants;
Make training decisions and interested in learning
- are able to make decisions before, during, and after the training session that will increase the probability that learning will occur;
- are continually interested in learning;
Move people beyond their comfort zone and entertain
- are open to the challenges, risks and rewards of moving people beyond their comfort zone;
- are entertaining;
Are focused and credible
- are focused;
- are credible;
Have a lesson plan and variety of learning activities
- have a clear lesson plan that incorporates adult learning principles and has specific, observable and measurable learning objectives;
- have knowledge of and employ a wide variety of learning activities;
Have a sense of humor and model what they teach
- have a sense of humor about themselves and their abilities. This includes the ability to acknowledge mistakes and not take themselves too seriously;
- model what they teach;
Are effective presenters and group facilitators
- are effective and engaging presenters;
- have proficient group facilitation skills;
Create a comfortable learning environment and build participants’ confidence
- create and maintain a comfortable learning environment for all participants; and
- build participants’ confidence in their own competence.
All of these qualities, skills and characteristics accomplish a trainer’s primary mission: to set learners up for success.
What other ingredients would you add to the recipe for an effective trainer?
If your trainers would benefit from learning how to design and deliver effective training, please book a call to discuss a tailored train the trainer program. https://laurelandassociates.com/contact/
May your learning be sweet.
Deborah
