A Note from Ruby
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Feature Article:
The 5 Biggest Mistakes in Training
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Let Ruby Teach You How to Train!
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5 Mistakes in Staff Training

We have all attended training sessions that made us wish we were at the dentist getting a root canal instead. But what makes a program so miserable? Here are a few mistakes trainers make and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1 - Sending the "Mandatory Memo" for staff training
Invite staff to attend and let them know why the training is taking place and why their attendance is important. Get them excited about attending.
Training should be an opportunity not a punishment so create a learning culture so employees embrace staff development.
Recognize new hires with a special orientation designed just for them.

Mistake #2 - Doing the same old stuff year after year
It has been said that sometimes organizations "Breathe their own exhaust." Although I think that is a little harsh, I certainly understand how some folks get in a rut and just don't know how to do something different. Some take the philosophy that "We have always done it that way." And I bet their staff is sick and tired of it…
Involve the attendees in the training. Have group activities that engage everyone to their comfort level. Not everyone likes to get up in front of a group and share so have different ways to involve them. A small discussion group where someone reports back to the group is more accommodating and productive.

Mistake #3 - Not designing the training to reflect your expectations of their responsibilities and actions
First assess what tools they will need to succeed.
Then invite key leaders at every level to be involved in the planning of the program.
Review problems staff members have encountered in the past and develop guidelines to help them avoid those problems in the future.

Mistake #4 - Lecturing to employees on and on
Presenters think that just because they "told them" that employees will do what they cover in the training. Adults can only listen as long as their bottoms can endure. Get creative with the presentation and make it fun.
Participants appreciate a variation in delivery and will learn better from interaction.

Mistake #5 - No follow up or Recognition Program
That which is not reinforced disappears." Decide what is really important and then reinforce it every chance you get.
Create a staff recognition program for the end of the year or the end of the season to celebrate everyone's accomplishments.

To avoid these mistakes and improve your training program, check out Ruby's new "Train The Trainer" Workshop scheduled for March 22-24, 2006. Click here for more information


© 2006 RubySpeaks, Inc. You are free to reprint or share this article providing you include Ruby's copyright information, leave it unaltered and include Ruby's contact information on the page.

Illinois Park and Recreation Association presents Train The Trainer Workshop with Ruby Newell-Legner, CSP

March 22-24, 2006 White Pines Golf Club Bensenville Park District, Bensenville, IL This workshop is not only for trainers. Whether you’re presenting to senior management, board of directors or council members, making a budget presentation, giving a speech, or speaking to your peers, this workshop gives you the key skills and confidence in presenting material that guarantees success. You will leave fully prepared and confident to tackle any training or speaking assignment Come learn how to avoid the most common speaking mistakes Go home with a tool kit of activities to bring your presentations to life Prepare to succeed when you stand up and speak with confidence and power CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO!