Training Tips for Trainers

• Use the KISS rule (Keep it Simple, Stupid). Tailor training, so that everyone can grasp what it is you're trying to say.
• Be prepared. Know your subject by reading, talking to subject matter experts, or have documentation available so that you can answer questions intelligently. (Orders, Regulations, Articles, etc)
• Be enthusiastic! Put some feeling into it. If you feel it, they will learn it.
• Schedule training in the morning when people are most alert.
• Make sure you know how to use any video equipment or that someone else is available to do so.
• Assemble any equipment-audiovisuals, samples of PPE, handouts, etc.-in advance.
• Rehearse your training. Tape record the training then listen to yourself objectively. Determine how long the training will last and try to stick to that timeframe.
• Have an outline to refer to so that you cover everything. (Index cards, speaker notes, hand-outs)
• Focus the training on participants' jobs; make sure it relates to the work they do.
• If the training is meant to introduce new equipment in the shop hold the training on the shop floor.
• Encourage hands-on participation. Bring samples of the PPE, SDS, Warning labels, etc.
• Testing your audience at the beginning of the class is a good way to see how much they know, then you know what areas need more emphasis. If time is limited, asking questions aloud and asking for a show of hands is a good way to test individuals.
• Test your audience after each class to see what they have learned. The test may be in the form of a written quiz or asking individuals to show you what they've learned.

Prepare Yourself:

• Call two days before the training to confirm the site reservation.
• Confirm the number of employees who plan to attend the day before and make the appropriate number of copies of handouts, tests, or other material needed for the class. Make a few extra copies.
• Send or Post a reminder the day before, telling employees where and when the training will be held.
• Practice your presentation the night before. Rehearse the sequence. Research and know your topic.
• Report to the training site an hour before-if audiovisual, overhead, or computer equipment is being used. A half an hour before-if no equipment is being used.
• Setup and test all equipment before you begin the training. Que the VCR tape. Have the screen down for overheads or movies. Test your slide show.
• Establish a desk area for training materials. Be comfortable with the arrangement of your resources.
• Pass out an outline of the events or topics. Stick to the sequence. Don't read from the text. Use index cards, speaker notes or an outline.
• Keep eye contact with all of your audience.
• Get feedback from your audience. Pass out critique sheets.

Source: U.S. Navy