Get the most out of your training session – keep training “alive”

Posted By: Jeanie Hagen-Greene No Comments December 30, 2009

When working with clients, I’m always concerned about the transfer of training from the workshop to the workplace.  During a recent conversation with a client, a senior manager didn’t realize how his organization’s managers and supervisors are key players in the success of any training program.  I explained that participants can receive outstanding training, however, back at the workplace managers and supervisors determine how employees will be supported – or restrained – when using the skills taught.  Among the actions managers and supervisors can take to maximize a training session are:

• Meet with employee(s) after the learning session to discuss what he/she learned, and to review the employee’s Personal Action Plan.
• Create a supportive environment where employees are encouraged to try and use new skills.  Coach employees when needed.
• Publish success stories or tips in an organization (department) newsletter, or send out reminder notices of points covered in the learning session.
• Hold employees accountable for using the skills: 1) update job descriptions to include skill learned; 2) update performance goals to include skills learned; and 3) update performance appraisals to include skills learned.
• Develop recognition systems, reward systems for successful use of skills.
• Measure the positive effects of training (i.e. fewer customer complaints, decreased errors internally, etc.) and let all participants know the results.
• Conduct refresher training – on a regular basis designate a portion of a meeting to skills learned.  Consider using role-playing (call it “skill building”) to practice actual situations.

The senior manager I mentioned earlier now understands the above actions promote the transfer of training from the learning site to the jobsite, and is working toward developing the organization’s managers and supervisors into “training partners.” He also sees how these steps affect the bottom line by helping to maximize the organization’s investment in its employee training!

Tags: Training