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When you think of how you are within a training session – like this workshop, for
example – do you ever exhibit any untoward behaviors? Although we like to think
that we probably do not exhibit poor trainee behaviors, many of us can on a given
day. What are you like if you do not get enough sleep, consume a lot of caffeine, or
are distracted by things that are taking place while you are away from work and at
training?
Undesired
Behavior
What it Does
Solutions
Joker
This person can help reduce inhibitions
and make people laugh. They may not
recognize that their continued
interruptions can monopolize your
session.
Restrict the number of times they
intervene.
Take them aside during a break and
say, “I appreciate your humor, but our
time here is limited and it is my job to
make sure that everyone has a chance
to contribute as we move through the
material.”
Cynic
A negative person who may have seen
previous efforts end in failure. They may
also have had trouble having their own
ideas listened to in the past, or could
feel poorly equipped to succeed.
Explain benefits to making changes and
work on gaining commitment.
Listen to and acknowledge their issues
so that they are addressed through
training.
Provide them with one opportunity to
explain the reason for their doubt, ask
them for a solution, and then indicate
that you are moving on.
Indifferent
An indifferent person does not
participate in discussions fully. Like the
cynic, their feelings of indifference can
come from having tried and failed, or
having ideas ignored.
Try to uncover the cause and find ways
to involve the individual fully, while
respecting and encouraging their
involvement.