"When I was a Drill Instructor, I used self motivation to the fullest extent.  I ran a program for trainees who couldn’t meet physical fitness standards.  The Instructors they had originally relied on motivation only during the time the task was being performed.  I quickly discovered that you have to prep the student and definitely follow-up after the training.  I am proud to say that over a 2 year period, 78% of my “failure trainees” successfully completed basic training and went on to finish their tours.  I think the biggest reason was due to my helping them discover their inner strength and how to exploit it to reach their goals.  I am trying to keep this short; I could go on for days."

Mark S. Carroll , Training Manager, JetCorp/JetDirect

 I like to use little laminated “remember” cards for main points, or (as I call ‘em) “mantra” cards. I have one that I use to increase effectiveness during that ‘first 90 seconds’ of their program start. Helps self efficacy by reminding them of what to prepare.

Stacy Grant, National IT Learning Instructional Design Specialist, National Information Solutions Cooperative 

During a stress management training some years back, an adult learner reminded me of the importance of being genuine. As we were discussing ways to ease stress, a gentleman in the back of the room raised his hand. "Do you ever use any of this stuff yourself?"

I replied, "Sometimes, I do."

His next question made sense: "Does it ever work?"

Being truthful, I said, "Once in a while it does."

He nodded and said that I could continue. I had to laugh because sometimes we just get stressed. That's why we need friends, and in this man's case, his company's employee assistance program. Since then, I introduce myself as a fellow traveler, not necessarily an expert.

 Bob Kalal, Kalal Training Associates

Do you have a success story or "lesson learned" from your training experiences?  Click here to send us your "Trainer's Tales" and we'll add them to this collection.  As a token of our thanks, we'll send you a special gift in the mail when you include your address.