Mix Your Media:

Use a variety of media to keep your audience's attention and keep your presentation lively!  Some examples include:

• Overhead transparencies (handy, simple and easy to create)

• Whiteboard (allows spontaneity and color)

• PowerPoint (be sure you'll have the equipment available on training day)

• Use group exercises, icebreakers, etc. (get people talking and they start learning!)

• ALWAYS GIVE HANDOUTS!

On Training Day:

• Dress comfortably! You'll be standing for the entire session (unless you show a video)

• Arrive early, arrange the room for interaction

• Be ready 15 minutes early, as participants will start arriving then - Greet them

• Have a sign-in sheet and plenty of pens for everyone

• Offer a break and refreshments if training will be 3 hours or more

• Never read to participants - paraphrasing is best unless you feel comfortable ad-libbing

• Never apologize. As the trainer, you're the expert.

• Put everyone on the same level: "We're all here to learn, so leave your title at the office."

• Use appropriate humor ... but don't tell a joke unless you're good at it!

• Look for intriguing facts on the internet or publications like the Guinness Book of World Records. They add unexpected interest to training material.

• Most of all....BE YOURSELF....HAVE FUN....AND YOUR PARTICIPANTS WILL, TOO!

FOUR FATAL TRAINING FLAWS....

• Not being available before and after the session

• Saying "Let's review"

• Using typewritten transparencies with small font 

• Ending late

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