Selecting a Trainer

Most Important Selection Consideration

The most important consideration when selecting a trainer is if they are well suited to the training design required to meet the learning goals.

For example, if learners prefer computer-based instruction, they'll benefit from a trainer who understands online training technologies. If learners prefers ongoing coaching, they'll benefit from a trainer who is readily accessible to the employee for ongoing advice and guidance. If learners struggle with communication skills, they'll benefit from a trainer who can integrate remedial communications strategies with other training methods.

Collaborate

Consider whether other supervisors or companies have employees who need similar training. If so, one might combine your needs and funding to get a trainer to conduct in-house training.

Former Employees as Trainers

Consider using an ex-employee who has the skills needed by the learner. Of course, this option depends on whether the ex-employee left the organization under good terms and remains in good standing with the organization.

Consultants as Trainers

If hiring a consultant to conduct training then consider issuing a Request for Proposal which asks potential trainers for the following information.

a written proposal for how they would carry out training, evaluation methods, cost, etc.
the goals preferred from the training, when to have training and what evaluation results should occur
request that trainers remain available for follow-up consultation if desired
ask the trainer what methods they use to ensure their consultation projects are successful with clients
ask for at least three references
consider having the employee briefly meet with the consultant to discuss training needs and establish a rapport

See the extensive advice and the sample forms for a request for proposals, a proposal from consultants and a consultation plan.

Self-directed Learning

If a suitable outside consultant or training program cannot be found, consider self-directed learning. Self-directed is accomplished primarily by the learner who leads or takes a strong role in determining learning goals, how they will be accomplished and how learning will be verified. Self-directed learning can be used where employees are highly motivated and self-reliant. Learning can be verified with a variety of means, e.g.,

Written reports describing what learning activities have occurred and what results were produced
Observation of the employee by a supervisor or other skilled expert equipped to assess progress of the employee
A portfolio or collection of results showing the employees' improvement over time
A presentation from the employee that includes description of learning activities and a display of results, etc.

For the Category of Training and Development:

Recommended Books

Basics and General Information

Orienting and Training Employees

Basics and General Information

Field Guide to Leadership and Supervision in Business: by Carter McNamara, published by Authenticity Consulting, LLC. Provides step-by-step, highly practical guidelines to recruit, utilize and evaluate the best employees for your business. Includes guidelines to effectively lead yourself (as Board member or employee), other individuals, groups and organizations. Includes guidelines to avoid burnout -- a very common problem among employees of small businesses. Many materials in this Library's topic about staffing are adapted from this book.

Field Guide to Leadership and Supervision With Nonprofit Staff: by Carter McNamara, published by Authenticity Consulting, LLC. Provides step-by-step, highly practical guidelines to recruit, utilize and evaluate the best staff members for your nonprofit. Includes guidelines to effectively lead yourself (as Board member or staff member), other individuals, groups and organizations. Includes guidelines to avoid burnout -- a very common problem among nonprofit staff. Many materials in this Library's topic about staffing are adapted from this book.

The following books are recommended because of their highly practical nature and often because they include a wide range of information about this Library topic. To get more information about each book, just hover your cursor over the image of the book. A "bubble" of information will be displayed. You can click on the title of the book in that bubble to get more information, too.