In times of rapid change, both small and large businesses today are increasingly
viewing training as an investment, not a cost. If your business uses outside
training consultants, you will want to maximize your return on this training
investment. Qualified training consultants and seminar leaders will have these
characteristics:
Training consultants will help you determine your specific training needs.
Prior to selecting a training consultant,
it is good to have at least a general idea of what your training needs are.
A training consultant should be able to analyze your specific training needs
to identify the type(s) of training programs necessary to produce the results
you require.
Training consultants will tailor training programs to address your specific
training needs.
While there are a number of "off-the-shelf"
packaged training programs available, they may not meet your specific business
needs. Training programs need to be adapted for greater effectiveness. The
return on your training investment will be increased if the training consultant
tailors a program to meet your specific training needs.
Training consultants will continuously improve their own training delivery
skills.
It is very important for trainers to be knowledgeable
in their areas of expertise. Trainers are aware that knowledge alone will
not produce results. Effective delivery of information and skills to adult
learners is essential. After all, how many seminar participants do you know
who enjoy boring lectures? Trainers frequently improve their effectiveness
by joining the American Society for Training and Development, the National
Speakers Association, and/or Toastmasters to enhance their skills.
Training consultants will evaluate training programs to show their effectiveness.
Trainers regularly evaluate training programs
to determine their effectiveness. Training consultants should be able to provide
you with example evaluation results of training programs that interest you.
Training consultants will have references available to prove their track
record.
Trainers should have practical experience
in the industries where they have expertise. Training consultants will have
references of clients they have provided services to in your industry. Before
you select a trainer, call the references provided to make sure you are selecting
an effective trainer, one who can deliver on your training investment.
Jeffrey W. Drake, Ph.D., is a professional speaker
and consultant for AchieveMax®, Inc., a firm
specializing in custom-designed keynote presentations, seminars, and consulting
services. Jeff has made presentations ranging from leadership to empowered
teams and project management to communication styles for a number of industries,
including education, financial, government, healthcare, and manufacturing. He
can be reached at 800-886-2MAX or by visiting http://www.AchieveMax.com.
Publication
Date: Fall 1994
