Success as a Trainer: The Competencies Needed

As training and development professionals, we often spend a lot of time in the classroom. Because of this, we have a variety of experiences with seeing facilitators in action—some positive, some not-so-positive. Our participants may tell us what they like on evaluation forms, but that doesn’t really define the competencies that make a facilitator shine.

In our experience in working with facilitators from around the world, we have identified competencies that are key to success for facilitators who deliver in face-to-face learning environments. They include competence in three areas:

Self-Management	Interpersonal	Technical/Functional
Composure and maturity/Emotional intelligence Drive for personal learning Customer focus Approachability and authenticity Integrity and trust Humor Real-time, time management	Advocacy ability Group- and individual-level active listening Interpersonal acumen and behavioral flexibility Conflict navigation Political astuteness and organizational savvy	Comfort with technology Presentation skills Knowledge of group process theory Knowledge of adult learning principles Awareness of group development theory General business and client-specific industry acumen

Not all competencies listed are of the same priority level, yet, our experience tells us that if any of these are missing, it will show up in facilitator performance over time in the form of lower participant satisfaction scores, increased behind-the-scenes faculty management issues and decreased trainer longevity.

Being mindful of these competencies when selecting and managing trainers can ensure a more effective trainer team. And, for those who fulfill the role of trainer or facilitator, these competencies can help guide our own self-assessment and development to higher levels.