Page 333 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 09 11/20/02 1:02 PM Page 322
322 The Creative Training Idea Book
Be Personable
A technique used by experienced trainers and presenters for reducing their own nerv-
ousness is to look into the eyes of participants in the front of the room and smile. If
someone smiles at you, you feel good and smile back. Then, you smile at someone else
and they smile. The pattern continues until you feel relaxed among friends and they see
you as warm and approachable. The reason for choosing people from the front of the
room is that those are usually the people who are most interested in being there and to
learn. Thus, they are likely to be more receptive and friendly.

Provide an Overview or Update

In your opening remarks, you will generally cover session learning objectives, explain
the AVARFM to learners, discuss what will be covered, and handle administrative details.
If you are doing a multisession program, starting with the objectives, a quick review and
tie-in of material covered previously is always helpful, as it allows participants to men-
tally tune in to you and the session.

Verify Understanding
Before moving into session content, I find it helpful to verify that learners understand
what I have explained in the overview. I also give them a chance to add their own objec-
tives or information that they need from the session. These are written on a flip chart
page and posted to ensure they are not overlooked and to demonstrate their importance.
Posting them also allows me to review them at the end of the session to make certain
that learners feel they were adequately addressed. During verification, I give participants
a chance to ask any questions they might have about the schedule, session topics, or
processes that will be used.

Be Politically Correct

Avoid and prevent stereotyping, off-color humor, and behavior considered offensive or
unprofessional (e.g., an arm around the shoulder of a participant as you stand talking
to him or her, or others). Even if you are good friends or related to a participant, main-
tain professional decorum. Remember that first impressions count and someone seeing
you from across the room may not know of your relationship.

BUILDING TRUST AND ESTABLISHING RAPPORT

As in any interpersonal interaction trust is a crucial element for successful training. With-
out trust, there is no relationship or chance for effective communication exchange.
Many factors can impact the trust level between you and your learners. Here are some
strategies that can foster a more trusting relationship with trainees.