Transferring knowledge to an audience of adults may be challenging. We need to understand the specifics and come up with a winning approach. Most adults have busy lives, and learning requires even more attention and energy. Take a look at these eight rules that will help you deliver.
1.Facilitate
Trainer doesn’t equal Professor. Delivering training sessions to adult audiences requires a particular approach.
2. Size the Moment
Most of the learning MUST happen during sessions. Adults have many other responsibilities reclaiming their time and energy: a job, families, etc. They may skip homework and individual study at times.
3. Get practical right away
Put all the learning to work with exercises and experiments for immediate assimilation. Take a learn-by-doing approach. Allow attendees to experiment, make mistakes and validate what they just learned.
4. Motivate
The higher the MOTIVATION, the more engaged trainees are. Identify what drives them and adapt the approach accordingly. Fuel their passion for the topic.
5. Listen
LISTEN and make it clear to the group that you do. Demotivation may happen if trainees feel you don’t listen. You will then “lose” them.
6. Engage
Provide a safe, stress-free environment for trainees to express their opinions and ask questions openly. The ironic/condescending tone is off-limits. That works for trainees, too.
7. Set Objectives & Benefits
State the objectives of the session from the very beginning. It is more likely that the group is fully invested in the learning process if they can anticipate the benefits
8. Show Appreciation
Make people feel they are appreciated, their contribution valued. The more self-confident they are, the faster they learn and engage in group activities.