Authored by Nate Regier, this article outlines 6 essential habits for trainers to adopt.
I train all types of trainers to enhance their effectiveness and have worked with many professionals in learning and development, from novices to experts. Throughout my career, I've experienced the joy of engaging trainees, the challenges of unmotivated ones, and the pressures of difficult trainees.
Beginning as a clinical psychologist, I managed psychoeducational groups for inpatients with addiction issues. I have experience in team building and adventure-based learning and am passionate about successful learning and behavior change.
Delivering successful training requires traits such as a love for interaction, subject knowledge, experience, a passion for learning, and genuine concern for others. While these traits are essential, they don't guarantee outstanding results.
Important habits of a successful coach
The most distinguished trainers consistently follow these 6 habits:
1. They Focus on the Delivery Style
The delivery style often outweighs content importance. Factors like word choice, tone, gestures, posture, and facial expressions significantly affect understanding. Focusing solely on content while neglecting delivery can make training boring, superficial, and unrealistic. Compare these two openers:
- "I have valuable information to share today to enhance your competencies."
- "I’m delighted to see you all and look forward to learning about your unique work experiences."
Each approach affects trainee engagement, learning, retention, and motivation to apply what they learn. Personal differences influence people's preferred communication styles, priorities, and favorite learning styles. Successful trainers adjust their communication methods accordingly.
Certified trainers seek feedback on their ability to connect with participants. This is one of the strongest predictors of outcomes and engagement.
2. They Prioritize Effectiveness Over Being Right
When trainees are skeptical or undervalue the experience, arguing is futile; impact matters more than being right. Compare these two presentation styles:
- "Here’s what you need to know to be more competent."
- "I’m pleased to share these strategies and welcome your thoughts on their value."
The first approach reveals a need to be right and defend one's opinion, while the second invites participation and focuses on effectiveness. Successful trainers choose effectiveness over justifying and imposing their views.
3. They Desire for Others to Learn and Grow Without Expectations
This habit can be challenging. I care deeply about my subjects and their value, and since I am paid for achieving results, I expect trainees to engage, learn, and benefit from the course. However, expectations often lead to disappointment. Successful trainers separate learning outcomes from their self-worth or that of their students and do their best while allowing trainees to take responsibility for their learning.
4. They Master Self-awareness and Self-management
The most effective trainers harmonize their minds (thoughts, plans, agendas, and goals), their hearts (emotions, physical responses, comfort levels, and boundaries), and their actions (behaviors, motives, and impact on others). They assess and balance these elements continuously for optimal effectiveness, staying attuned to their physical state, managing stress, and recognizing how their behaviors influence others and how their attitudes and beliefs manifest in their work. They understand their triggers, vulnerabilities, and how to respond appropriately.
5. They Are Humble
Trainers who constantly flaunt their expertise can undermine trainees' confidence and discourage engagement. Trainers must facilitate learning, not boast expertise. Successful trainers exemplify humility rather than perfection by admitting mistakes, sharing weaknesses, and acknowledging that they don’t have all the answers. They create learning environments encouraging trainees to explore and engage with the material.
6. They Embrace Compassionate Accountability
Effective training requires a balance of compassion and accountability. Trainers must cultivate environments that promote safety, curiosity, and consistency. They understand that the best outcomes occur when trainees openly discuss their hopes and fears, address challenges collaboratively and commit to the hard work of practice and application.
Conclusion
Trainers should practice these 6 habits to achieve greater effectiveness and satisfaction while connecting with trainees to ensure optimal results.
