Skills for Training Others

Not everybody has the skills to train new employees, no matter how much experience or knowledge they may have with the subject matter. Teaching or training is an art, not a science, and so employers do well to find employee with good skills for training others.

Patience

Every employee trainer needs to remember what it was like as the new guy. A new employee worries about screwing up, making a bad impression or making enemies. Trainers need to put newcomers at ease, giving them plenty of space to make mistakes — even encouraging it, if there is a practical purpose.

Use humor

One of the best ways to put employees at ease is making them laugh. A joke or two eases the mood, but avoid an overly casual tone. New employees need to recognize the business hierarchy.

Weed people out

Often during training, a trainer can spot employees that might cause problems. Getting rid of them during training is far easier than having to fire them six months in, after they have caused more serious problems within the organization.

Knowledgable and honest

Trainers should have a good level of knowledge about the topic, so they can answer trainees' questions. Pretending to know everything can look foolish. When confronted with a question beyond the trainer's field of knowledge, he can respond, "That is a good question. Let me find out."

Following this advice can lead to a successful training and a successful employee. Above all, always remember what it was like when you were a new employee. Having some empathy makes things easier for everyone.