Trainers are professionals in the business of facilitating learning. However, they need to continuously learn to provide their trainees with the latest and most relevant knowledge. And even more importantly, trainers should know what not to do so that they don’t create newbie mistakes for their trainees. So read on if you want the secret to becoming a world-class trainer!
Here are the Mistakes to avoid while training
1: Not understanding your trainee’s learning capacity
Every person has a different level of cognitive ability and digesting ability, so trainers must understand these differences between themselves and their trainees when designing training programs.
2: Not understanding the importance of the trainer-trainee relationship
Training is not just defined by what is presented in the classroom but by what takes place outside of it. This includes having a good rapport with trainees and promptly responding to their concerns and questions. The best trainers build trust between themselves and trainees to help each other succeed in their training programs.
3: Not knowing how to approach the use of power effectively
Trainers are responsible for motivating trainees toward reaching their learning goals, so they must possess two abilities: the power to challenge and the power to persuade. Trainers must be able to guide trainees to overcome barriers in their learning, and they can do this through their use of force. The trick is to empower trainees by telling them the ‘why’ and not the ‘how,’ especially regarding how they can succeed in the training program.
4: Not knowing how to encourage behavioral change
Training programs are designed for trainees to learn new knowledge, skills, and attitudes. However, this is only useful if these things are converted into habits. Trainers must therefore be experts in getting their trainees to internalize what they have learned in class to apply it outside of the classroom. They can do this by encouraging their trainees to change their behavior because this is what will motivate them to cultivate new habits. Techniques for behavioral change include:
5: Not knowing how much and how often to check in with your trainees
Being an effective trainer demands that you be a good listener and ask your trainees questions that will help you understand their needs. Trainers must constantly be aware of their trainees’ concerns and challenges in class, so they can work together to overcome these challenges. Additionally, trainers should know when it is appropriate to check in with their trainees about their learning strengths, weaknesses, interests, and goals.
Being a trainer is just like having another kind of job. The nature of the job demands that you come in every day and do your best and that you should have a good relationship with your trainees. The only difference is that trainers must constantly learn about new things to be successful at their jobs.
