If you’re used to being the sole presenter, having a co-presenter can present some difficulties and cause some discomfort. The first category when co-training has to do with deciding who will present each training section. The second category to consider when co-training is to decide what the role of the non-presenter will be while the other trainer is presenting a section. This is what we will focus on in this Tip.
What to Do If You’re Not in Front:
Be clear about the expected role of the non-presenter.
Possible options include any combination of the following:
- Write group comments on the flip chart or overhead;
- Work with one section of the group;
- Note down questions or issues raised by the group that will need to be addressed;
- Provide assistance as requested by the presenter;
- Listen;
- Observe the group interactions;
- Help to provide crowd control;
- Serve as a time keeper;
- Facilitate small group discussions;
- Check to see if any participants need extra assistance; and/or
- Interact with the presenter in a pre-arranged manner- for example, playing a role.
What Not To Do If You’re Not in Front:
- Make disapproving noises;
- Indicate your displeasure or disagreement through body language;
- Go make telephone calls;
- Leave while the other trainer is speaking;
- Stand in the back as if judging the other trainer;
- Create distractions by joking with the participants while the other trainer is trying to teach;
- Do other work while the other trainer is presenting; or
- Prepare your materials for your next presentation.
Next week we will explore the third category, which is the do’s and don’ts regarding how to handle differences of opinion with a co-trainer.
If your trainers are struggling with facilitating in a co-training format, please book a call to discuss a tailored train the trainer program. https://laurelandassociates.com/contact/
