Training the Trainer

I have been fortunate to support many organizations in creating Train the Trainer modules, and have learned a few things in the process.

One is that training trainers or others to deliver a program or a training session is a process that does not happen overnight. Many times the assumption that we all operate the same way is destroyed in the first practice session!

Beyond the knowledge that some potential trainers will have more experience than others, the reality is that we are all shaped in different ways based on our own experience and journey.

One of the best ways we’ve learned to ensure that the quality and integrity of the program stay consistent is to ensure that we all learn the same methodology or insights.

We’ve utilized a four-step process:

1. Allow the potential trainer to observe the actual program delivery. Once would be great, multiple times is recommended.

2. Spend time with them to share insights on the methodology: Why we do what we do, how we do it, words to use/words to avoid, how to articulate the story of the program or training.

3. Allow the potential trainers to deliver smaller portions of the program and provide them candid feedback in a private session. Then have them deliver a longer portion of the program, based on the critique given.

4. Have at least two trainer students work together for the first few sessions, to hold each other accountable. This is best if the Master Trainer is observing the entire program.

BEFORE YOU GO

We see our blogs as opportunities for dialogue. Please share your thoughts as comments.

1. Think about how you train trainer to build capacity in other communities.

2. What methodologies have you used to ensure consistency in the quality and integrity of your programs?

3. What other advice might you share?

#training, #trainthetrainer, #farisalami