Community - T+D Online - recruiting trainers - Brief Article

T+D, May, 2002

Trainer Selection: Help!

I'm in the final stages of interviewing for a trainer. I have four candidates and would like to observe their training styles and abilities. Any ideas on an assignment, which each could work on and deliver as a short presentation?

Sue

An effective technique for observing a trainer's style is to assign him or her a simple topic to instruct. One of the best topics I've used is how to peel an orange: The trainer is handed an orange and given five minutes to prepare a five- to 10-minute presentation to the group on effective ways to peel an orange. That exercise allows the trainer to demonstrate his or her ability to improvise and lead a class.

I've found that the presentation given with the least amount of time allotted for preparation is a great indicator of overall skill.

Brian

Whenever I interview trainers, I always ask them to be prepared to present on a topic of their choice for a 15- to 20-minute timeframe. I use my existing instructor observation form and ask my instructional team to sit in, observe, and provide feedback on all of the candidates.

The timeframe limitation is important: I look for candidates to open, present, and close effectively within a predefined parameter. Their ability to be time conscious and thorough is evaluated. That includes all of the standard key elements, such as objectives, learner involvement, and questioning

The use of an existing observation form ensures consistent evaluation of abilities expected in the workplace. Having the rest of the team involved builds team spirit. Existing team members are part of the process and know their input counts.

Joe Cox

T D Online is compiled by associate editor William Powell; wpowell@astd.org. Join the discussion by visiting ASTD's Learning Communities at www.astd.org.