Page 144 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 04 11/20/02 12:00 PM Page 133
Beginning Opening With a Bang 133
on a
high note
Be prepared Be positive

Establish
the Come in
atmosphere with a
bang

Start Use
on group
time energy

Keep administrivia
to a minimum
MINDMAP 2. Beginning on a High Note

participants moving and to activate their minds. The latter occurs because learners have
to consciously think about which body part to use and how to accomplish the activity
given in the instructions. Cross lateral activities can also be used throughout a session
when you need a quick energizer after periods of sitting.

Create an institution where people aren’t allowed to be curious,
and people won’t be curious.
—Tom Peters
Liberation Management

GRABBING ATTENTION

So much of the success of your training initiatives is dependent on the initial approach
you take. Underestimating the need to start off with a powerful introduction could be
a serious mistake. By slowly drifting into your topic or unemotionally greeting partici-
pants when presenting a session overview, you can lose learner attention. Once this has
occurred, you may never be able to fully rekindle a spark of curiosity and interest. To
that end, make your opening remarks with enthusiasm. Put power into your words and