Disappointments In Training

A reader writes: “I was really disappointed in the training I attended. You did not stay on track and I gave up. Any defense?”

First of all, I take full responsibility for failing to fulfill your expectations and keep you engaged. You were also critical that I took too much time for introductions, since I would address a question (that was covered in the PowerPoint or Manual) during that time. My goal during introductions is to determine what are the needs/concerns of those in attendance so that I can focus on your interests, not mine. I call this style of training “Interactive Training,” which tries to focus on the individual’s question or statement so long as it relates to the topic being covered. When I address these questions, I usually glaze over that slide or talking point when I go through the presentation.

You also did not like the anecdotes and stories that I told. Neither did you like the fact that I give homework (optional of course) for the next day’s session. My intent was to get you into the manual so that you would get more benefit from the handouts and exercises. Again, I take full responsibility for this.

That said, I was disappointed that you left early under the pretense that you had an emergency back at the office. To the best of my memory, you had a full seven hours left to bring up any subject or topic that was relevant to the class. Then you filed a complaint with your boss, who called my boss with a complaint. During the debrief, I asked what you wanted to cover that I did not cover in the presentation and my boss indicated that you never expressed that clearly.

We learn in the three ways, audio, visual and kinesthetic (hands on). Due to the nature of the class (Supervision and Quality Control), I am not able to do any hands-on equipment training, which is covered in other classes.

I really try to create an open, safe environment and am disappointed that you did not exercise the option of speaking to me either privately or in public.

Your comments and questions are important. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean...

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678-314-2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.