Maximize Your Learning In Training Programs

It is an obvious thought that no matter who we are, or what our profession is, we want to get the most bang for the buck from our purchases — that is, to be able to maximize all available benefits from what we are spending. We try to ask for discounts and freebies just to feel that we spent less and got more.

The problem is that not all that we avail ourselves of are tangible, especially information-based products such as training programs. Training programs and seminars offer knowledge and ideas, which are hard to gauge. The most common way of judging whether it was useful is when we are left with no questions, and we fully understood what was said. But is that all? In this case, how do we get our bargain or value and get more out of the training programs? To maximize your learnings, here are a few tips to follow:

1. Get to know the training programs you are joining. For companies conducting seminar training programs, they will always provide you with the list of topics that will be discussed for the seminar. Make sure you read them before availing. For example, there is a difference between a formal barista training programs and a training program for setting up and owning a coffee shop. Both could have a headline of “Coffee shop training programs,” but each would tackle entirely different aspects of a coffee shop. Are you hoping to be trained to become a barista, or do you want to own a coffee shop? By knowing what you are getting into, you can set your expectations properly and avoid wasting your money for something that may not be helpful for you. Admittedly, training programs would seem expensive for some as there may not be an immediate, tangible result. But if you are getting a good seminar that would address what you need to know, then it would be worth your money.

For training programs that are provided by your company, these would usually focus on certain skill sets, or a mix of skills and office procedures common in your company. You don’t have to worry about these training programs because your HR, being part of your company, knows what training programs will help you learn new ways to increase your productivity, or be prepared for a new position in the company and among other things.

2. Prepare your questions. Now that you know what will happen, list down the things that you want to know. For those attending startup seminars, do you want to learn the government requirements to put up the business? Do you have a specific place where you want to set up shop, but you want to consult to a professional first? Are you a supplier who now wants to integrate forward and become the seller yourself? Compile and write down all your questions.

3. Write. Use your pen. You also paid for that. No matter how thick and complete you think the handout you get is, always jot down relevant information and questions ask by the participants, the speaker’s answer, and other important things that may have been said in passing. Even professional speakers would think occasionally of something important in the middle of their talk and discuss about it briefly.

4. Socialize. Attending public seminars is also a good way to build your professional contacts. Different people will be attending — professionals, business owners, and even suppliers of various industries. Take the time to get to know them. Perhaps you can meet possible business partners among the crowd. Maybe you can become a supplier for their other businesses. Just by simply getting acquainted with these people, you can get contacts and learn different perspectives related to the training programs you are attending Perhaps they can show you a different point of view in terms of setting up your business, offer pieces of advice that you have never thought of, or comment on industry trends.

5. Look for added value. Perhaps the speaker is open for short private consultations. After the training programs, if the speaker gives out his/her contact details, copy it. You don’t know when you will need it. We have had quite a number of participants who eventually called our resource speakers to ask questions after attending their seminars and setting up their own businesses. There are also some who asked about topics that they have forgotten. But this is not always the case for resource speakers and training program companies. Just ask if they are open to contact for future references. A lot of them will be willing to help. Some professional speakers would answer your emails and some would offer their professional services that you could avail of but for a fee.

Learning is always a reward in itself. As you study to become an effective business owner, or a highly skilled professional, always ask and seek for answers that will help you grow. Maximize your learnings in training programs and not only will you be sure to get a better bang for your buck, but also reap great benefits in the long run.
*Originally published by the Manila Bulletin, C-4, Sunday, January 15, 2017. Written by Ruben Anlacan, Jr. (President, BusinessCoach, Inc.) All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or copied without express written permission of the copyright holders.