Personal Training:
How to Train One-on-One
One-on-one training is much different than any other type of training. It is more personal, more direct, and more focused than group or classroom training. One-on-one training requires more of the trainer in every way, and can be a very difficult skill to learn. Here are some tips to help you get started learning how to train individuals:
Be patient. Training one on one can be very taxing on the trainer as well as the trainee. Remember that the person being trained tends to be very nervous, as everything they do is being evaluated. Be patient and allow them the freedom to make mistakes as they go along. Make sure they understand that you are there to help them, not to criticize.
Have an agenda. For each training session, provide your student with a mini-agenda in advance of the session. The more you work with a particular individual, the easier it will be to create the mini-agendas, because each session will dictate which areas need focus the next time you meet with your student.
Listen to your student. One on one training is the perfect time to really listen to your student. Your student will be more likely to open up to you in a one on one session, so be prepared to listen carefully, and provide them with the help they need. Also—make sure you don't give them all the answers. Have them figure some things out for themselves---and as you encourage this, they will learn to figure things out on their own.
Have set training schedule each week. Try to have your training on the same day and time each week. This will help ensure you don't miss a session, and will help both you and your student be prepared for each training session.
Provide ongoing feedback throughout the training. Feedback throughout the one on one session is very important. This will help you stay on track and will help your student to feel like they are making progress.
Provide written reviews. After each session, waste no time providing a written review of the session. The sooner you do this after the session, the easier it will be to remember everything discussed during the session. Once you've written the review, waste no time providing it to your student. Then they can use the review to improve their skills and determine their own progress.
Provide progress reports. Progress reports, provided on a monthly basis to the student and their manager, will help the student see their progress, and will help the student's manager determine how well the training is working. If you are the manager and trainer, use the progress reports to motivate your employee/student.
Have a training timeline to ascertain progress. Before you start the training sessions, set specific training goals. These goals should be realistic, but should be stretch goals. Setting specific goals against a timeline will help you and your student press forward toward learning success.
One-on-one training is a very good way to get to know your student's habits better, and will help them learn more aggressively. Scheduled, purposeful training will help your students be ready to take on new skills and grow in their individual professions.
Information is for educational and informational purposes only and is not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. This does not represent a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security. Please consult your financial advisor.