A training facilitator helps to organize, plan, and execute educational programs for employees within a company. They often have a degree in education, instructional design, or another relevant field. A good training facilitator knows how to adapt their teaching methods to a variety of learners and to troubleshoot problems that may arise during a training session. They also know how to create a welcoming and inclusive environment.
The best training facilitators can inspire participants to push past their reluctance to participate in class or workshop activities, regardless of how boring the topic might seem at first glance. They understand that there are a variety of factors that can make attendees feel this way, including existing hierarchies or prejudices, preconceived notions about what will be learned, and their lack of involvement with each other outside of the classroom or workshop. They can find ways to encourage participation by establishing new group dynamics that eliminate these hindrances, such as breaking the room into smaller groups.
During a workshop or class, a training facilitator must be able to provide clear and concise communication with their audience. This can be done by ensuring that everyone is on the same page, clearly dictating expectations, and actively listening to each participant. They are also able to convey information in an engaging manner, using examples and analogies to illustrate concepts as needed. Training facilitators also know how to encourage active dialogue amongst attendees, and they are able to defuse heated discussions in an appropriate and productive manner.
Because they are responsible for guiding the learning process, a training facilitator must be able track progress and report on it to the appropriate figureheads in the organization. They must be able to identify gaps in knowledge and skill sets, as well as areas that need improvement or new training programs. They can then formulate bespoke courses and deliver them in the most effective manner possible.
In order to succeed in the role of training facilitator, individuals should have at least a bachelor’s degree in human resources management, organizational psychology, or education. In addition, training facilitators should be familiar with learning management systems, which are software tools that help to streamline the entire training process from planning to execution and evaluation. They should also have a diverse set of skills that they can bring to the table, such as interpersonal communication and leadership. Those who are interested in becoming a training facilitator can begin by attending a short starter workshop to get an idea of what the job entails. Then, they can decide whether this is a career path that is right for them. The employment outlook for training facilitators is strong, with employment growth projected to outpace the national average over the next decade. This is due to the continued need for organizations to implement training and development programs in response to ever-changing business needs.