How to Conduct a "Train the Trainer" with Subject Matter Experts

The training of subject matter experts focuses on "how" to train, not "what" to train.

Subject matter experts come to a topic with a great deal of knowledge and expertise. What they may not be as familiar with is how to train or transfer their knowledge to other people. Train-the-trainer sessions can give them the tools they need to be good trainers and educators. Teaching subject matter experts the four-step training method is one of the most basic ways of teaching training and can help them develop the skills they need.

Things You'll Need

• Schedule
• Materials needed to demonstrate task
• Training presentation tools such as presentation software, projector, screen
• Feedback forms

Instructions

Prepare to Train

1. Write training objectives, with learning goals that are specific and measurable. They will identify what your trainees will be able to do or know when the training is complete.

2. Develop step-by-step plans. Plan how you will train the trainees so that they gain skills and knowledge needed for each of the learning objectives.

3. Choose training methods. Decide the way that you will deliver training to the trainees. Different options include group training, lecture, demonstration, simulation, interactive computer training or written material.

4. Create a schedule for the training. Determine how long each training session will take and how many training sessions will be needed. Decide when a good time for training to take place will be.

5. Reserve a location for training. If you are going to be training a task, it helps to train the task in the same place where the task will be performed. Trainees should be sitting or standing in the place where they will be performing the task. The training location should be well lit and the temperature should be comfortable.

6. Gather the supplies and equipment you will need for training. Have all of the materials that you need set up in the training area before the trainees arrive. Test the equipment to make sure it works.

Conduct the Training

1. Prepare the trainees. Help the trainees feel comfortable and explain to them what they are going to learn and why it is important. Be sure to tell them the benefits of training -- what is in it for them. Review the training session's objectives and tell them how they will be evaluated.

2. Demonstrate the steps. As tasks are explained, the trainer/subject matter expert should demonstrate how to do them. Tell subject matter experts that they need to present learning in a logical order. Trainers should encourage the trainees to ask questions and to seek clarification on anything they don't understand.

3. Take enough time to fully explain things. Go slowly and carefully so that you can explain and demonstrate each step thoroughly. Check with the trainees to make sure they understand.

4. Repeat the steps. Go over all steps at least twice to make sure that the trainees understand the process.

Coach Trial Performances

1. Let the trainees practice. Give the trainees the opportunity to demonstrate each step and to explain what they are doing and why. This lets the trainer evaluate whether they really do understand or whether more information needs to be provided.

2. Coach the trainees. Don't do tasks for them, but provide coaching. Praise them when they perform correctly and gently correct them when they don't.

3. Repeat any steps or procedures that were not well understood by the trainees. Try if possible to present things in a slightly different way or using different wording.

Follow Through

1. Provide feedback and additional training as needed for a few tasks at a time. After the training session is over, follow up with trainees to provide mini-coaching sessions. Trainees can't handle too much information at one time.

2. Continue positive support. Let trainees know when they are doing well after the training is over. This encourages them to apply their new training on the job.

3. Give constant feedback. Praise correct behavior and coach or correct incorrect behavior.

4. Evaluate the trainees' progress. Determine whether trainees are meeting the training objectives. If they aren't, determine whether the training needs to be changed, whether trainees have been provided appropriate resources or whether they need more training and practice.

5. Get the trainees' feedback. Let the trainees evaluate the training they received. Encourage them to explain what was helpful and what was not. This can help the subject matter experts become better trainers.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure the trainer is relaxed and patient. Explain the steps by telling why things are done the way that they are. Use clear language that is easy to understand. Avoid jargon -- language that is technical or specific to an industry. If you must use the jargon, be sure to define it.

References

• "Supervision in the Hospitality Industry, Fourth Edition;" Raphael Kavanaugh, Jack D. Ninemeier; 2007