Preparing a training program – how to do it?

In this article, we assume that we have completed the training needs analysis. Now, it’s time for the next step, which is preparing the training program. Where to start?

1. Creative Stage

The first step in preparing a training program should not be developing a PowerPoint presentation (that can only be a support for the training presentation). So, where to start? I usually start by creating a mind map. In the center of the mind map, I place the training topic, and the branches represent the topics that will be covered in the program, for example, sales techniques would be the center of the mind map, and customer needs diagnosis, language of benefits, or handling objections would be branches. The advantage of this method is the possibility to supplement the plan, add ideas, and make changes. Of course, considering the training time, you should select the topics from the mind map that are priorities for achieving the training goals.

2. Organizing Stage

Once we have selected the substantive issues, we should determine the training objectives we plan to achieve, select appropriate methods, and determine the time for each training module (assuming that preparing a training program means that there will be several modules in it).

Let’s focus on training objectives now:

1. Cognitive objectives – related to definitions, understanding of concepts

2. Behavioral objectives – related to skills or behaviors

3. Affective objectives – related to participants’ attitudes

Depending on the objectives we plan to achieve, we choose appropriate methods, such as:

• Cognitive objectives – presentation, demonstration, video, quiz
• Behavioral objectives – simulations, practical exercises
• Affective objectives – case studies or discussions

Of course, these are just a few examples of methods that you can use. It is important to try to estimate the time accurately. Engaging methods take more time but offer many benefits and contribute to participants acquiring skills, which is the purpose of preparing a training program.

Such a process of preparing a training program takes more time, but it also allows the trainer to prepare well for it. It is most difficult to develop your first training, but then it becomes easier, as we draw conclusions and modify programs. Of course, it is worth making one key assumption here: defining the outcomes at the beginning of the process and conducting a needs analysis.