So what does it take to be a good trainer?

“The mediocre teacher tells.  The good teacher explains.  The superior teacher demonstrates.  The great teacher inspires – William Arthur Ward.

So what does it take to be a good trainer?

Corporate Training

Good facilitation is about robust instructional design and exceptional delivery.  Yet beyond these techniques there are specific personal attributes that will assist one to transition from good to great.

Here are a few tips:

Be knowledgeable: It is expected that as a facilitator you are a subject matter expert in your area of specialization, however it is also important to know a little about many topics.  Therefore being well read and having a wider view of life makes the difference between a good and a great facilitator.

Be passionate: All passionate trainers are passionate about their area of expertise and about teaching others. There is a certain degree of positive energy around great facilitators.  Passionate facilitators create passionate learners.

Be inspiring: As a super facilitator, you must aspire to inspire. Every conversation with your learners is an opportunity to train and impact others in a positive way. Seize that opportunity and inspire your learners to do the impossible.

Be curious: A common trait of all good facilitators is that they are always curious and wanting to learn. In addition, super facilitators are not afraid to learn from their learners!

Be understanding: As a facilitator, you are likely to have a wide variety of participants who don’t always learn in the same way or at the same speed. Accept and embrace the differences and leverage the opportunities presented by diversity.

Be a role model: It is one thing to teach someone and another thing to follow what you teach! A super trainer always walks the talk.

Be a good listener: Facilitation is about listening rather than talking. We have twp ears and one mouth, not vice versa.  A super trainer is always ready to listen.  Sometimes even listen to things that are not being said.

Be challenging: A super facilitator has to provide ample opportunities for trainees to feel challenged. Life is never boring with a super trainer around. There is always something new waiting to be discovered.

Be entertaining:  A good facilitator always involves feelings and emotions. Humor and entertainment go a long way in making a memorable session.