We have all participated in training courses or workshops. Some of these have been helpful and useful in our everyday lives and others have seemed redundant and a waste of time. How often have we cheered or grumbled at being asked to participate in a training day? The good news is that all training can be useful and applicable if the trainer keeps some simple tips in mind when developing and applying training. We all learn differently, but there are some truths about learning that can be applicable to most groups and can be tweaked to fit any training session.

Training is an essential element of development in any organization. Being knowledgeable and continuing to learn throughout your career can make you a very valuable asset. We also know that training and orientation (or ‘onboarding’) for newly hired employees is a key factor in retention.   In order for training to be valuable, the person that designs and plans the training must have an excellent understanding of what the training objectives are. In addition, if the trainer is able to research the strategic objectives of the company providing the training to their staff, what resources are available, and what elements of those plans can enhance the training experience, the entire experience is much more meaningful. At the same time, if a trainer is aware of any barriers that training could present (such as trainees being on call during a session, having to spread training over a long period of time, or trainees who are not accustomed to theory or classroom types of presentations), then the trainer can present a much stronger program that is tailored specifically to the participants’ needs.   This course is designed for a trainer who wants to develop training programs that are meaningful, practical, and will benefit both trainees and the organizations they work for.