Preparation

Hello Readers,

People often ask me how do I prepare for my training classes or workshops. Below are 7 tips I stand by:

1. I very seldom rush in the mornings.

2. My clothes are ironed and prepared 2-3 days in advance for the work week.

3. I read my materials and practice daily up until time for the training.

4. I arrive to the training early enough to acclimate myself with the environment.

5. I have printouts and materials done 1-2 weeks in advance.

6. I conduct research on the audience I am teaching.

7. I pay attention to what I am saying to the learners. It is all about the learner not me.

There are many other prep tips I follow, these are the main ones. I heard a very thought provoking phrase earlier this month and it is for us to be "prepared for the prepared." Therefore these tips help me to do such. I hope they help you prepare for what is already ahead for you. Be prepared for the prepared. Preparation leads to success.

Your thoughts are welcome

MJW

Www.truthspeakscoaching.com

To Train or not...

Training is one of if not the most important factors for companies and organizations. I believe more organizations are realizing that a well-trained employee turns into a loyal and engaged employee. So what is the real definition of training? Being a training professional I have read many versions of definitions. One definition I like is from Business Dictionary.com because it is simple, it states training is a “Organized activity aimed at imparting information and/or instructions to improve the recipient's performance or to help him or her attain a required level of knowledge or skill”. I would like to add the Truth Speaks definition, “Training is a developed schedule of adult education events/activities designed to introduce, enhance, and transfer learning”. Like I said I like simple.

Let’s look at some training platforms from a couple of companies. Disney requires that each employee go through the same training before going into their hired position. Disney believes that all roles need to understand each other. In addition the employees are called Cast Members; the difference is they are either on stage or off stage (pretty neat). Another example is CSX Conductor training; each newly hired conductor undergoes a rigorous 6-8 months of training before starting the actual role. These are just two of many companies that understand the value of training and that the return on investment (ROI) can be great. These companies value their employees and want the best for them; it is evident from their training platforms. 

How is the training at your company? Please let us know your thoughts...

http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/training.html#ixzz3FNIR6IJk

www.truthspeakscoaching.com

MJW

The Three P’s of Presentations

  Preparation – Readiness of the subject- 10 hours prep time for 1 hour of presentation time.

  Persuasion – Bringing understanding of your subject matter to your audience. Keep in mind what you are trying to convince/prove.

  Purpose - The “Why”. The adult learner needs to know how the subject matter relates to them. Simon Sinek states “people buy the why”.

Putting it all together:

Preparation persuades the purpose of the presentation.

Keep these P’s in mind when preparing your next presentation and you will have a successful presentation.

Your thoughts are welcome...

MJW

www.truthspeakscoaching.com

Wooden’s Principles

I recently read one of the many books about Coach John Wooden entitled "Coach Wooden’s Leadership Game Plan for Success". I was very impressed at his ability to coach successful basketball teams for over 40 years using some simple tactics which could benefit us all. Here is a small sample of what I learned:

1  

1. Do not let what you can’t do interfere with what you can do.

2. Aim to work hard not to win. Keep your mind focused on what you can do and not what the opponent can do.

3. Character is who you really are. You cannot hide it, it will eventually come out.

4. Discipline yourself and others will not have to.

5. Learn as if you were to live forever; live as if you were to die tomorrow.

6. Always be ready and the opportunity will come.

7. Be slow to criticize and quick to commend.

8. The best talent doesn’t always make the best team. Attitude rules everything.

9. Enthusiasm is the ignition switch. Turn it on and things start happening.

10. Never Lie, Never Cheat, Never Steal. Don’t whine, Don’t complain, and Don’t make excuses.

Let us know your thoughts.

 

Wooden J. & Jamison S. (2009), Coach Wooden’s Leadership Game Plan for Success. 12 Lessons for   Extraordinary Performance and Personal Excellence. McGraw-Hill. New York, NY.

MJW

www.truthspeakscoaching.com