I thoroughly enjoyed the last three days of training that you led in Vancouver. Last night, on the flight home, I felt overloaded. There were two themes to my thoughts as I flew over the mountains, back to Northern Alberta. At first, my thoughts centered on the opportunity that lay ahead of me from a recruiting standpoint. I can say that I have never been more excited about the profession. I know I am still a rookie (almost 3 years) but still. I have had some success, but now I sense the best is yet to come.
However, my thoughts shifted gears. For three days, I watched you. I listened to your voice. I paid attention to your delivery. I can’t help it. I taught adults at a University level for 4 years. I have been facilitating a nationally renowned accreditation program for up and coming professionally designated accountants called the Strategic Leadership Program for 7 years – the last 4 exclusively for MBA graduates with several years of corporate or executive experience behind them. I am more comfortable in front of a group leading/facilitating/whatever as opposed to sitting in the audience or classroom. As a trainer, you are masterful. Why are you so good? On the plane, I took out my scribbler and I began jotting down the pros and cons to your delivery – what was good about your method of training and what might need improvement. You’ve probably heard it all before. If so, feel free to skip to the end.
Pros (in no particular order)
• Materials were easy to use
• Fill in the blank style forced us to follow
• Message was integrated from start to finish
• Message was consistent
• Used storey telling effectively (to make a point, to relate, to build rapport)
• High level of interaction
• Live, real time coaching
• Use of before and after scenarios
• Varied group participation size from pairs to whole group to individual
• Incorporated energizers after a break
• You were a professional you (i.e. you were real)
• You had a roadmap
• Participant preparation was expected
• You set reasonable goals
• Engaged to group to set their own goals, and performance indicators, and recognition in real time
• The lessons taught were progressive in nature (build it as we go… now we add this…)
• Use of repetition
• Use of catch phrases (BOOM)
• Mix of positive reinforcement and gentle criticism
• Was accountable
• Personable and approachable
• Engaging – you listened
• You used “write this down”
• Tools as take-aways with immediate impact
• You came prepared, you did your homework and research on the company
• Followed agenda but was flexible
Cons (in no particular order)
So there you have it. I was impressed. I have attended countless seminars and courses and conferences. I’ve taken training courses on how to train. And you Peter, are by far, the best that I have seen. Hands down. You have inspired me to be better and I am most appreciative.
Have fun on the ranch. Maybe one day I’ll see you there.
PS – I love your business model – brilliant.