Page 156 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 04 11/20/02 12:00 PM Page 145
BRIGHT I DEA Opening With a Bang 145
Pique Their Interest
alk into your session with one of the “arrow through the head” props that are
Wavailable through many party, novelty, or costume stores. Somehow, incor-
porate its use into your opening remarks by saying something such as, “Good
morning. I apologize if I seem sluggish this morning. For some reason, I woke up
with a terrible headache today!”

One can never consent to creep when one feels an impulse to soar.
—Helen Keller

GETTING TO KNOW PARTICIPANTS

Trust is the basis for all relationships. It is also better gained in a friendly environment.
In my experience, one of the best ways to start a session on a relaxed note, and to set
the tone for trust and learning, is to include introductions with your opening remarks.
Participants are less likely to disagree with or challenge your comments, and may be
more receptive, if they feel that they know you and have psychologically bonded. This
rapport building can actually begin as participants arrive through the use of the follow-
ing strategies.

Prepare Biographical Information
By providing brief background information on a handout, you can help establish your-
self as an expert (assuming you have experience) while saving precious classroom time.
You can still give a brief personal overview, then refer participants to the handout if they
want more information about you. Make sure that you include your organization, mail-
ing and e-mail address, and phone numbers on the biography so participants can later
follow up with comments or questions.
The handout can be included in participant guides or as a separate sheet of paper and
can be used by an organizational representative to introduce you, if necessary. To assist
the latter, you may also want to bullet point five or six key accomplishments on a flip
chart or projected visual to use during your opening remarks and introduction. This
helps the visual learners.

Display a Welcome Message

Either on a flip chart by the entrance or on a projected image, use a Welcome to . . . mes-
sage, accompanied by colorful, creative graphics (e.g., fancy borders, clipart, drawings of
flowers, the sun, moon, or stars; geometric symbols, or whatever you think appropriate).