Posted on March 15, 2018
Blog
Conferences
Event Management
You just got the notification that you are going to participate in a corporate training program.
Maybe you are being dragged against your will by some new organisational requirement, or hopefully, you are skipping all the way to the conference venue because you have been advocating for this training for some time. Either way, leverage these 7 steps to make the most of your learning opportunity.
1. Do the pre-work or some research
Some corporate training programs include pre-work to be completed before attending the first session. Pre-work is designed to assist you to get in the right headspace for learning about the topic. If you’re not excited about attending you probably don’t want to hear this, but preparation will greatly improve your success in the course. If the program does not ask for pre-work, do some research of your own and get yourself ready by thinking about the subject matter. Preparation can jump-start your learning process and open your mind.
2. Consider what you would like to gain from the training program
You’re investing one, two or maybe three days in the training course. What benefits do you want to achieve from attending? Is it measurably improving skills? Is it about gaining a new skill to further your career? Maybe a greater sense of confidence about certain aspects of your job? Know what you want from training before you start and it will enhance your learning experience.
3. Prepare specific questions about the training topic
With your pre-work done and objectives in mind, be prepared to ask questions that ensure you get what you want from the program. What would you like to get more information about? What subjects do you find a little confusing and need more explanation around. Maybe you can share your interests with the trainer in advance of the program, and they can ensure your needs are met. They may be able to tailor the training to your concerns, or at least make sure that those points are covered.
4. Set yourself up to succeed by knowing your learning style
Everyone has a preferred learning style. Some are visual (40%), some are kinesthetic (40%), whilst others are audio (17.5%). An even smaller group learns with a very rote style. If you know how you learn you can set yourself up for success in the training session. For example, if you’re a visual learner, choose a seat where you can see the trainer and screen. If you are a kinesthetic learner, use the venue’s notepads to take notes or do some doodling (of course, don’t forget your favorite coloured highlighters). If you are an audio learner, sit in a place where there will be the least background noise or echo, and you can clearly hear the trainer. The trainer may also use accelerated learning techniques to even further enhance your learning experience.
5. Reflect on what you have learned
Ideally, your training will include a structured opportunity for everyone to reflect on what they are learning. If not, while you’re in the breakout area enjoying a coffee and Cliftons Fresh yummies, consider how the training is going and what you are learning. Is the training contributing to your goals of what you want to achieve? Do you need more information on subjects that have come up? Approach the trainer after the break and discuss any queries or concerns you have.
6. Have a post-training session plan of action
Good corporate training programs typically include a structured time for you to develop an action plan that will assist you to integrate your learning into your everyday work. It is like a transition plan back to the workplace to ensure you gain the most from the time invested and information learned. Your action plan will include:
Most essential takeaways from this program
Steps you will take to incorporate some of these new skills into your work day
Time for reviewing your notes and reinforcing the learning
What milestones will I use to know I am using the information
7. Review your progress
Diarise the milestones you have set yourself and undertake an honest appraisal of your progress. The skills you learn will become part of your career development, and it is important to get the most out of any training opportunities you are given.
Enjoy your next corporate training event at Cliftons Venues!
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