WizTalks

Unsubstantiated claims by Trainers: Are we becoming more like products today? Or braggers?

2011-11-03T00:36:00.000-07:00

It's hilarious:

One Trainer claims that he is India's No. 1 Train the Trainer. I really don't know who is the Certifying body and what's the basis of this claim but nevertheless the claim is part of the signature line.

Another claims to be Mumbai 1st Trainer in a particular Technique. Till recently he claimed to the only one certified in that technique.

A Intl. Training Co. Franchisee claims to be the Global Top Training Co. They are a listed Co. in US and their financial statement showed that they were a loss making company until a few years back (whereas the claim started about 7 to 8 years ago).

Is this required? And why do we need this? Can't our work speak for ourselves through our clients?

Do we think that Client HR is soooo damn stupid that they aren't going to ask us for the rationale on our claim. BTW, are they asking?

Preps ON!!!!

2011-10-14T01:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday late night, Sunil and I were sitting and planning the flow of the Theater Training workshop on 15, 16.

I am feeling the value and the direction of the training is going on the right track. Most of the participants are trainers and we expect a lot of fun, learning and churning.

Trainers Forum is happy to announce the 2-day workshop on Using Drama and Theater in Training on 15th and 16th October, 2011, at Mumbai.

2011-10-04T05:04:00.000-07:00

Perspective :

Dramatics and Theatre techniques are powerful mediums to make individuals reflect on their own behaviours in the organisation.

The workshop is divided into two parts:

1^st part – The Actor in you

2^nd part – The Trainer as an Actor

On Day 1, the participant refreshes on the basic nuances of Acting and understands the power of “Improv” as a tool of quick responses.

On Day 2 the participant explores usage of theatre in training using methodologies like Role Plays, Role Modeling, Forum Theatre, Scenario building for Skills Practice etc.,

About the Facilitator:

Ajit Kamath, Director, WizTalks - Ajit started lecturing in 1992, and has been in the space of Soft Skills Training since 1996. Since 2002 he started Training for Corporates' on topics such as Presentation Skills, Communication Skills, Team Building & Leadership. He has been associated with Theatre since 1988 and has acted, directed, written One-Act Plays for the amateur Theatre circuit and has also co-facilitated Drama workshops for children and young adults for 12 years. He has been using Theatre techniques in Training since early days and has been a Role-Player and a Forum Actor in International training deliveries.

For Day 1, the Co-Facilitator shall be:

Mr. Sunil Vishrani. Sunil who started as a child-actor has directed, written and acted in Plays. He has modelled for Advertisements too. He has regularly done cameos in "Tarak Mehta Ka Olta Chasma" and was one of the main characters in the popular serial "Papad Pol". He has been teaching Drama since 20 years and has been co-facilitating Drama workshops with Ajit since 15 years.

CONTENTS

Day 1- The Actor Prepares

Module	Description
Breaking Free	Free up your body Building energy through play Each part of the body acts
An Actor prepares	Observation Imagination Concentration
Body Language	The ‘body’ communication
Action-Reaction	One gives action the other reacts. Audience gives feedback of how the reaction c ould have been different
Non-Verbal Enacting (no voice)	Perform the given situation within limited time-frame.
Improv.	Improvisation Each person picks up a chit with a role and has to perform immediately for a minute using verbal & non-verbal communication.

Day 2 - The Trainer Prepares

Objective to Theatre	Training Objectives and conceptualizing usage of theatre
What goes	Which Theatre Format to be used: Role-Plays Role-Modeling Forum Theatre Skills Practice with Scenarios Skills Practice without Scenarios (participant situation)
Scene Building	Building Scenarios Transitioning Scenarios to Acting
Debrief	Debriefing to the objectives of the training Facilitating the learning’s
Performing	Each participant trainer shall demonstrate usage of at least two formats to the group

Date : Saturday, 15^th October and Sunday, 16^th October 2011

Venue: Hotel Fortune Park, Eastern Express Highway, Jupiter Hospital Complex, Thane.

Investment

Rs. 7975/- (Seven Thousand Nine Hundred and Seventy Five only), which is inclusive of Breakfast, Lunch, Training Material and of course, an eventful learning experience!)

Registration:

For registration please forward a mail to madhura@trainersforum.in before 6^th October 2011. We have limited seats available for this workshop and registration will be on first come first served basis.

Please forward your cheque / demand draft favouring “Trainers Forum” payable at par at Mumbai for the above amount to:

Madhura Nene, D-1005/6, Lake Lucerene, Phase III, Lake Homes complex, Chandivali Studio Road, Powai, Mumbai. 400 076.

"Theatre in Training" Pictures

2011-06-01T02:42:00.000-07:00

Theatre in Training by Ajit Kamath on Sun, 29 May

2011-05-22T00:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

We would like to personally invite you all for the Trainers Forum Meet at Mumbai, on Sunday, 29th May, 2011.

Session I –The objective of the session is to understand how Dramatics and Theater techniques are powerful mediums to make a Trainer communicate learning concepts to his participants powerfully.

Theater uses all the 3 elements i.e. visual, auditory and kinesthetic

Session includes:

Introduction

Various Theatre Techniques useful in Training

Role Plays (commonly used)

‘Improv’ (Improvisation)

Forum Theatre – Trainer as a Role Player

Forum Theatre – Trainer as a Role Player and Action/Reaction as per the audience

Forum Theatre – Professional Actors as Role Players

Skills Practice

Facilitator:

Mr. Ajit Kamath, Director, WizTalks. Ajit started lecturing in 1992, and has been in the space of Soft Skills Training since 1996. Since 2002 he started Training for Corporates' on topics such as Presentation Skills, Communication Skills, Team Building & Leadership. He has been associated with Theatre since 1988 and has acted, directed, written One-Act Plays for the amateur Theatre circuit and has also co-facilitated Drama workshops for children and young adults for 12 years. He has been using Theatre techniques in Training since early days and has been a Role-Player and a Forum Actor in International training deliveries.

Session II-Screening of a special motivational movie, “Pass it on”,

Ruben co-stars in the movie "Pass It On." This ground-breaking feature length movie will reveal the steps necessary to realize your goals and dreams.

In "Pass It On" you will find all the resources you will ever need to win in life.

The world’s leading scientists, authors, businessmen, athletes and philosophers will reveal the universal principles of success. Principles you can use right away to change your life forever…

This session will be conducted by Mr. Arun Vishwanath, Founder Trainers Forum

Where:

Boomerang

Training Center

Main Chandivali Farm Road, Near Chandivali Studio, Powai, Mumbai - 400 072.

When: Sunday , May 29, 2011

Timing : 10 am-5pm

Charges: Rs. 700/- only (inclusive of networking break-fast, lunch and tea)

We request you to send the program charges Rs. 700/- by cheque made in favour of "Trainers Forum" payable at Mumbai for confirmation of your registration and have it sent to:

D-1005/6, Lake Lucerene, Phase III, Lake Homes Complex, Chandivali Farm Road, Powai, Mumbai 400 076 , before 13th May, 2011.

Please also mention your name and contact details on the reverse of the cheque

So, block this Sunday 29th May, 2011 on your calendar and send us your confirmations at the earliest. Kindly send your details to madhura@trainersforum.in indicating your participation. We will send you a mail along with a code to confirm your participation for this event.

Look forward to meeting you on Sunday, 29^th May, 2011.

With warm regards,

Madhura Nene
Trainers Forum
Email: madhura@trainersforum.in
Web: www.trainersforum.in
Mobile: +91 98676 35081; +91 98676 35081

Why are we "Trainers" here?

2011-02-21T22:09:00.000-08:00

One of my friends & a Faculty in a well-known B-school called me asking for advice:
[He works as a Senior HR in a well-known organisation who also moonlights as a Visiting Faculty in a B-school. He is good in his subject, runs the class with a book and sharing his personal experiences. However energy wise he is low in energy in class (his age being on the higher side of 50)].

He is within a few years approaching retirement. He has an option of accepting VRS too with a good package.

Now his question was whether he should take VRS and enter the field of Training as a Freelancer? For him Training would a good source additional income and would give him an opportunity to relax too.

Now,my thought is "Why are we Trainers here?"

For some of us it is "passion" - we have chosen to let go of our other careers and tansition to this field. And this is where we are going to be till a long time.

However for some - it's a Pension Plan
And for some others - its a Stop-Gap arrangement.
And for few others (this is where a few Training Co's I know fall into) ... just a BUSINESS.

Now those who see our field as a pension-plan or a stop-gap arrangement or a business, would they build value....
And then, how would they treat fellow-trainers,
Why wouldn't they NOT undercut others,
And Why NOT pay a 'commission-bribe' to get the business.

Let's ask ourselves,
"Why Am I Here?"

....and are we gonna devalue this profession.

The Training grass on the other side

2011-02-21T22:06:00.000-08:00

w no response or their colleagues inform that they would get back to us soon. They don't even let us know that it is a "NO".

I strongly suspect that this is done either for the 3-quotation requirement (for audit purposes) and therefore they try to source the expensive quotations as they have already finalised their Trainer / Training Company; OR for getting ready-made designs which then they incorporate into their own in-house design claiming it to be their own work.

Now this is not what I am writing for.
I write to make our Trainers aware of something happening later that really amuses me.

Few of these seniors, in recent years have either retired / or gone into independent consultancy..... and some of them have got into training.

Now the fun is that they have come to the other side ("the grass being always greener on the other side!"). Recently a few of them were complaining that clients (Companies and thus naturally their HR's ) do not get back, do not respond to calls and keep on asking for designs & proposals and don't get back at all.

Wow! .... amusing, isn't it?

Warm regards

Ajit

Why Trainers Aren't Synergestic??????

2011-01-18T04:06:00.000-08:00

A year ago, my very dear Trainer friend Bhupesh Dave (a Magician too!) sponsored my ticket to a very vibrant session of Deepak Chopra at Shanmukhanand Hall, Mumbai.

After the session, 4 of us Trainers (myself, Bhupesh, Sachin Kamath & Rajesh Tagore had an interesting conversation.

Our observation was that Deepak Chopra in his 3 hour session, in his examples / andedotes / explanations dropped names of some important people like Dalai Lama etc.and surprisingly also of Trainers/Speakers. He also referenced books & articles of fellow trainers/speakers (who probably could be considered his competitors).

Now cut to sessions by an Indian Trainer / Speaker. It's always about ourselves and when we do talk about other Trainers / Speakers, it would be more of Western Trainers/ Speakers/Authors whom either we have/haven't met or the audience may never have met. Rarely have I seen any Trainer mentioning about him/her having learnt from a colleague Trainer/Speaker from India itself.

Now why is this so?
Wouldn't the pie grow bigger if we could reference each other in a gathering. Wouldn't this lead to a better awareness amogst the people about L&D and who would/could specialize in certain topics.

OR are we frightened of loosing our business if we reference others? Why is it that we Trainers try to deliver all kinds of Topics rather than specialze in just a few which are our strengths?

Isn't Speaking a profession too???

2010-07-25T22:05:00.000-07:00

I was recently invited by an Association to do a session for them. When I explored about fees, they told me that theirs was a charitable organisation.

What does this mean?
Don't these organisations pay for any services?
What about their Auditors, Accountants and Staff.

Y0u could be part of an organisation that does social service for the community. That's great!!! I am also a part of such organisations but that's my choice.

How can your charity be my charity????
And when will you start valuing "Speakers" and the time they invest?

Doctors charge, Lawyers & Accountants too, cos that's their profession. But Speakers aren't supposed to ... doesn't it sound strange.

Even the Toast Master's expects a Speaker/Trainer to do a session for them gratis. Toast Masters being the flag bearers should understand that they can bring "value" to the profession.

We had started a Speakers Club in Mumbai, India about 4 years back and every "Speaker" we invited was paid a honorariam.

We practiced what we preached. Speaking is a profession too.

LET'S VALUE SPEAKERS TOO.

Why are Trainers running behind International Training Certifications

2010-05-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

This was a question raised by Naina Mehta in Trainers Forum.

My answer:
Thank you for the question which everyone probably wanted to ask but dared not?

Before we get stuck-up with blaming our Indian fascination for everything 'phoren', let me offer a perspective. As I have been a 'Certified Trainer' in International programs as well as I deliver my own conceptualised "Training Programs", I hope to present a balanced opinion

1. What is an International Certification? A certification allows you to deliver a particular training program with it's modules (this generally is an Intellectual Property program which has it's base on some research, book, thought or philosophy). This certification allows one to deliver this program across the globe or pre-defined areas (as per the contract signed with the intellectual property holder). Usually these modules are very structured (a few cultural variations allowed) but the trainer can't bring in his own content to the program. The methodology, activities, games etc. are standardised, generally designed by Content Developers who have studied human psychology, tried and tested the content, pedagogy and it's impact on the participants and the transfer of learning's to the workplace. A certification shows your competency to deliver these specific training and it doesn't mean that you are a certified trainer for all kinds of training programs.

Advantages: Structured, researched, planned modules with focused key deliverable

Disadvantages: For a culture like ours, the data /content-driven approach may not connect with many participants. Lack of customisation (the modules being predesigned) is another challenge.

Note: There are some quality-conscious International Training companies who wouldn't certify if the person can't grasp the content or if the person can't deliver as per their methodology/pedagogy. These certifications are intense, run up to a week, only 4-6 participants are allowed in this TTT and the qualifying percentage is about 25% only.

Who prefers such certifications?: Usually MNC's and Indian Global Co's prefer such certified trainers as the training intervention being a Global L&D initiative, they can be assured that the content and the delivery is standardised (a minuscule % of cultural variation is acceptable).

Cost of such programs?: International training rates apply. The trainer gets a small fee but the bulk would go for IPR and for organisational costs of R&D, Content Development, Videos, Marketing etc.

Is Certification necessary? For delivery of these IPR training programs, YES.

2. Can't we have Indian Certification? Yes, Why not?
But honestly how many of us Trainers / Training Companies really put efforts to research, develop, conceptualise, contextualise our Training. One doesn't even document the questions asked in the room and neither the off-hand feedback received by the Trainer. There is generally no standardisation. The program could be the same but each Trainer puts in his own variation, brings his own content to the room based on the comfort level of his/her delivery and/or knowledge. Ice-breakers, energisers, activities are used randomly without even understanding the connection between the subject and the debrief. Some of our trainers are on a "gimmicky" platform aiming to get the "wows" in the room.

Advantages: Does well for Motivational, Sales training etc. Scores high on rating's. If single Trainer approach then works well.

Disadvantages: No research background, no clear content road-map, no validity of what one is saying in the room.

Note: There are few quality-conscious Indian Training companies who are doing a great job. They run TTT's, certify trainers who can deliver the content and keep a check on the delivery of the trainer's.

Who prefers such trainers? Usually localised Indian Co's/SME's who would prefer the same Trainer to run these trainings at all their locations. This itself assures them of standardisation and customisation. MNC's also prefer such trainers if there are budget constraints (local budget), the program is generic and they would want the same trainer to deliver the training at all locations.

Is Certification necessary? For delivery of such training programs, NOT NECESSARY.

3. Why are we running behind such International Certification?
Few counter-questions:
Why are people running for Management Degrees?
Why run after IIM programs or a ISB certification?
Why run after a US MBA or a Doctorate or an additional qualification?
Those who know the difference vis-a-vis to our local degrees and the 'A' category B-schools would know what I'm talking of...

Another question - If not such International Certification then where do I get such certification in India? Those of you who will point out to ISTD, we all know that the ISTD Diploma has to be revamped immediately and made more practical. Further this certification needs to be validated by International Associations/organisations... only then will the world value Indian Training certification (like our IIT's, IIM's etc).

I hope I could bring a bit more light to these debate.

Is mentioning as Ex employee or associate of an organisation, violates the copyright or patent rights ?

2010-02-19T22:36:00.000-08:00

Is mentioning as Ex employee or associate of an organisation, violates the copyright or patent rights ? .... Question asked in Trainers Forum by Manish Agarwal

My thoughts:
As per my knowledge, there is no law in India that prohibits you to use ex-Company as part of your profile. There could be some Companies who may have signed an agreement before you joined saying that you can't use their name in future and there could be non-competing clause too. We may have to check the legal validity of such clauses. I'm unsure but the Constitution of India (especially the Article that gives one a Right to practice a profession or vocation may support one here)

Another thought is - if one can't use it then how come the Past Presidents, Past PM's etc. proudly mention it. Even MP's flaunt it.... and professionally retired Judges use it too. Further let's not forget ex-Army/Navy/Airforce who promptly put up Retd. Colonel / Captain / Cmde etc. in their business cards, letterheads, profiles and even in promotional training brochures ;-)

So why can't others????? Is this Ex / Retd. business only for government positions?

I think I should start using it too. But then, personally I feel it is unnecessary. Our work shall speak! Not our past!

"Innovative Training Methodologies" Ajit was the Panel Speaker at the ISTD Regional Conference

2010-01-20T00:39:00.000-08:00

I have uploaded the soft copy of the presentation which I delivered at the ISTD Regional Conference at Pune on 16 Jan 2010. Check out http://tinyurl.com/yfxcepr

Awaiting videos ... that would be uploaded too.

Leadership Camps for Teens and Youngsters- Lonvala - Dec 2009

2009-11-04T10:31:00.000-08:00

The Forum of Free Enterprise is holding 2 residential camps at Lonavala; for youngsters between 20 to 24 years on 'Personal Leadership' and for teens between 14 to 18 years on 'Reaching the Zenith'. This would be in December - 21st to 28th and 28th to 31st respectively. Details of the camp are at the end of the email.

Both these camps are fully supported by the Dorabji Tata Trust. Details are below the script of this email.

I am the Camp Director for the 'Reaching the Zenith' Camp. If you know of youngster or teenager who would want to participate, please write to me on ajitkamath@wiztalks.com and I shall send the softcopy of the forms to you. The forms have to be sent to Forum of Free Enterprise and they would select the participants (applying doesn't guarantee you admission)

Note: The last date has been extended. We are still open to a few more applications.

Most trainers are merely PPT readers

2009-10-20T07:50:00.000-07:00

Most trainers are merely PPT readers - a comment I read on linkedin to which I have put forth my observations below:

I have an objection to the loose use of "most" by the originator of the comment here. It assumes that the person has observed all of us Trainers and then made a comment w.r.t. "most".

If you had said "Most presenters are PPT readers" I would have agreed.

I have had the privilege of conducting TTT's, observing many Trainers / Presenters / Speakers in Mumbai and have a fairly decent network of training friends from whom I have realised that the following:

1. Freelancers and people who get training assignments from Companies generally tend to use PPT more as an Aid and a Cue Card for remembering the flow. They don't end up being PPT readers.

2. There are many Trainers who absolutely don't use PPT at all / or to the basic minimum. They use powerful methodologies like Story Telling, Role Plays, Acitivites, Games, Role Modeling, Group Exercices, Individual Exercises etc.

3. Some Company Internal Trainers do tend to be PPT readers. But this is changing because organisations have started conducting TTT's and Facilitation Skills workshop.

4. New Trainers may use PPT for reading but once the content is sunk-in they move away from PPT usage.

Assuming that the HR is going to pay us Trainers a fee for reading PPT's is mockery of their ability to judge.

Subscribe to my blog to be updated

2009-10-07T03:37:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

On the left, leave your email id and you will be intimated about my posts via emails.

Regards
Ajit

Question: Factors to be kept in mind while designing a training program and what are the different delivery styles one can adopt while training?

2009-09-29T08:18:00.000-07:00

Question by Nisha Dhanuka

on http://www.linkedin.com/groupAnswers?viewQuestionAndAnswers=&gid=48422&discussionID=7595367&sik=&trk=mywl_artile&goback=.mwg_48422_1

My Answer:

Whilst designing the training program, I would find out the following:
- Why is this training required (Needs)
- What is expected to change after this training
- Participant profile - Age, Experience, Level, Qualifications, Culture etc. (this would make me decide how the training moves; an e.g. a program for a logical oriented audience would be different from a creative audience
- How many days do we have for this intervention.

Delivery Styles would be individual but I believe can be trained and enhanced. If the above has been mapped, a passionate Trainer can easily adapt to their audience.

4 Basic Styles are:
Lecturer
Speaker / Presenter
Trainer
Facilitator

A Trainer has to know how to Train & Facilitate, both. Methodologies and techniques need to be used for being effective in transfer of learnings

An Interesting Answer to my Question: Why can't CEO's be involved in Training???

2009-08-21T06:28:00.000-07:00

Anne Thornley-Brown, President, Executive Oasis International answered my Question in Linkedin (here details are at the end of this post)

Training and team building that isn't closely linked to the strategic direction of your organization and the real world issues and challenges of your business is a waste of time. It is really important for CEOs and other executives to be involved in training and team building to maintain this focus. Why?

It is really important for CEOs and other executives to support team building and training to ensure that:

- The company vision gets communicated clearly
- You leverage each and every opportunity to reinforce the corporate culture you are trying to shape
- Team building and training exercies get infused with real world issues, not theoretical cases
- You have a feedback mechanism to help you keep your finger on the pulse so that you get unfiltered access to what is going on in your management team and on the frontline with clients

Another important reason to get involved is that, without your involvement, training and team building can be perceived as irrelevant and the facilitators can be perceived as out of touch with organizational realities. This is particularly the case if there is already a disconnect between the corporate culture you are trying to foster and existing organizational practices.

There is another important aspect to this question. Senior management involvement in team building and training is really important to ensure that the company's resources are used wisely. Relegate decision making to HR or a committe of more junior employees and you can end up with a range of training programmes that are loaded with the fun factor but of questionable value in terms of content. You can also end up with a good chunk of your team building budget being blown for programmes that are, in fact, team recreation.

So how can a busy executive who is already stretched to the limit become involved in team building and training?

Executives can do this by making presentations at training and team building sessions and attending portions of sessions whenever possible. It doesn't have to take a lot to time and it doesn't require staying for the whole session but it does have impact. I have always made it a priority to invite executives to make presentations during key training and team building initiatives.

With the internet and DVDs, there are many ways that a busy executive can increase their presence in team building and training. Video briefings with executives, can be recorded and played at varioius training and development sessions, for example. The VP, Marketing can record footage for marketing courses. The CIO can record material for various computer courses. The VP, Sales can record material for sales training.

If a CEO can't find time to make a presentation once a month (or once a quarter) and send another executive in his or her place if something crops ups, something is wrong. All it takes is a little planning. Schedule the sessions in and schedule a different executive to back you up each month just in case on occasion you can't make it. If there is ever a month that you can't make orientation, the member of the executive team who is pinch hitting for you can play the DVD, make some comments and answer questions.

Executives who want to explore similar issues are invited to join the discussions at the:
International Business Team Building Alliance Group http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=1989979&trk=hb_side_g

Other Resources:
http://corporateteambuilding.wordpress.com/2009/06/15/team-building-guide-for-executives

By Anne Thornley-Brown, President, Executive Oasis International, specialists in team building http://www.executiveoasis.com/executiveretreats.html and facilitated team building retreats. Read more articles by Anne at her team building blog http://corporateteambuilding.wordpress.com
Follow Anne on Twitter @executiveoasis.

How much of ‘entertaining‘ is advisable in Training?

2009-08-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

How much of ‘entertaining’ is advisable in Training? What is the role of humor and fun in a learning environment? The question also how and how much?

(The above were questions asked in linkedin)

My thoughts:

Games, Activities, Humor etc. surely make learning "Fun". I'm unsure whether we can call this 'entertainment' because this can take the Trainer away from the objectives of the learning session.

I use instant humour more in the post-lunch space or if I feel that the energy levels of the participants has dipped.

I would also decide the "how much" part of it, by mapping my audience well. For e.g. if it's a young crowd (college-going) then the session would be laced with humour and fun, but if it's a senior profile that I am handling, then I would 'tone-down' the humour and fun bit.

In certain training programs such as Communication Skills, Presentation Skills, Negotiation Skills etc. the 'fun' element can be integrated as part of the module and thus flows seamlessly. Here the audience could belong to any age group or any levels and it would still do well. For e.g. running a quick round of on-the-spot speaking (the topic list could have some funny topics).

Another methodology to engage the audience is to use "story-telling". Funny anecdotes, incidents and even jokes can be customized to a story-form and narrated to the audience.

Why can't CEO's be involved in Training???

2009-08-10T23:07:00.000-07:00

Last week I was in a meeting.

The HR Manager announced that we would be meeting the CEO of this company for a discussion on the training intervention.

I was surprised because normally this doesn't happen in the first meeting itself.

The CEO was young and dynamic. He was briefed about me well by the HR Manager and we immediately got into the training objectives, the program and the effectiveness (In most cases, whenever I meet senior Management, I have to first give an introduction of myself (either the HR hasn't briefed them about me or the senior hasn't read the brief that was sent).

The meeting was focused and ended well. The CEO also gave me required inputs about the targeted group too. I was highly impressed!

Meeting over, I had a thought:

Why can't more CEO's get involved in the training of the organisation?
Why is it difficult to have their perspective of the Training need?

Does it mean, I don't trust HR? Absolutely not!!!
But my experience is that many HR professionals don't align strategically to the business operations and therefore their understanding of the need is many-a-times the softer part (which is also necessary) but unless and until a Trainer doesn't understand the business need for the training, the effectiveness of the program cannot be seen.

Is this the reason why training many a times fails in implementation stage???

Amazing Quote

2009-07-20T08:39:00.001-07:00

One of the striking differences between a cat and a lie is that the cat has only nine lives.

Mark Twain (1835-1910)

Rain rain come again

2009-07-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

Today was a wet rainy day. It had rained all night.

Morning came, and wow!!! I was in Vienna. There is water all around our building.

I stay on the ground floor but our architect /builder (more than 70 years ago) had foreseen water logging on our road. The ground floor is at a height of about 6 feet from the road level. Think of planning and proactivity.

It was wonderful!!! The road was less noisy with only a few BEST buses passing by (all other traffic having stopped). When the bus came the waves also come in. The pleasant breeze was enjoyable too.

Suddenly I remembered that I had a training program to go for. Now I wanted the water to go away. Unfortunately it didn't.

I called up the client and spoke to them. They were accomodating. Raghunath (HR) told me it was fine and to take a call. At about 10 am, water disappeared, called up the client and they said we could still start the session at about 11.30 a.m. So off I was.

Again at about 4 p.m. there was a scare and we had to close the session early. Raghunath arranged for me to be dropped at Bandra by the Co. bus. I was home by 6.30 p.m

It was an eventful fun & enjoyable day.

It's really really funny.

2009-07-10T22:40:00.000-07:00

It's really really funny.

I know of Training Companies whose Trainers are made to claim (who dares ask for proof from the Trainers?) on the floor that their training interventions reduced attrition in client companies, but when it comes to their own Trainers they haven't been able to reduce attrition at all. Many Trainers are leaving sooo soon and that too "hurt" .

One of the reason is that most Training Companies (my previous experience and of my network of trainers experiences tell me) don't have any HR processes at all. The Owners / Franchisees run Training Companies like "lalas" with autocratic form of leadership. They don't even let their teams know how much business they do. These are the same guys who 'teach' client participants that other styles of leadership should be used.

Another reason is payments of dues...
I remember a hilarious incident.... I and the Training Co's BD Manager, were observers to a training program being delivered by the Master Trainer (Owner /Co-Chairman too!!!) of the Training Company I was associated with. The program was for Intelenet and the topic was "Execution".

The grand statement made to participants (most of them Sales and Operation guys) of this organisation by the Master Trainer was "How motivated would you feel if your incentives or salary doesn't reach you by the 30th of the month?". "Would you really be on "fire" (drive the execution) or would you loose interest in execution?" The participants nodded a "NO".

We observers both looked at each other and laughed (we were at the behind of the room). The fact was this Training Company never paid on time. The salaries / training fees were paid by the end of the next month and the incentives weren't paid to the BD's even after 6 months and that too after reducing what was agreed.

Talk about "Preaching exactly opposite of what you do". And that too by so-called Master Trainer and the Owner.

Do you know of any other reason?????? Do share as comment.

Do you know of Training Companies who have HR processes and are ethical and true first to their teams... do share as comment?

Coaching in Presentation Skills / Public Speaking

2009-07-01T21:43:00.000-07:00

In L&T, for a particular division in Mumbai, I coach small teams in delivering an effective presentation internally to their organisation's seniors. At times the coaching is to Supervisors who have to deliver a session to their newly promoted Supervisors. Recently it was for a competition. The fun of coaching such teams is that I'm working with practical application of the learning.

In training workshops, the skills are surely enhanced but chances are many of these participants may not get an opportunity to present for the next many months.

Presentation Skills / Public Speaking isn't like cycling or swimming.... once learnt, learnt for life. With these skills if you loose out on applying it regularly (at least once a week) the 'enhancement' starts coming back to the original position.

If organisations, do not provide opportunities to practice the skill on a regular basis, then the training effectivness (and thus the ROI) may suffer. Can the trainer really be blamed for this?

Or else do what this division of L&T does.... practical application.

"Silence" - a fear

2009-06-27T01:48:00.000-07:00

I was in Chail, Himachal Pradesh, near Shimla for a NGO Training workshop.

This is a hill station in HP but probably not as crowded as Shimla. Nice quiet place. Temperature about 23 deg. For 3 days that I was there, I went for an early morning walk on 2 of those days.

The 2nd day, I started walking uphill, past a gurudwara and further on. This was about 6.30 am. There were houses on the way but "sleepy". I went further on.

After about 30 minutes, I paused as I was panting. Suddenly it struck me that it was eerily quiet... few birds, funny croaking by hill crows.... and nothing else. The breeze was playing truant with the cedar trees... and no human sound at all.

I was frightened., frightened of the silence and that I was alone. I didn't have the guts to go further on. I started back.... to the noises.

I wonder why? Is it that for a hard-core Mumbaite like me, who is so used to sounds (high decibles), so used to voices and noise... this "silence" was terrifying.

Is classroom training still relevant?

2009-06-05T06:47:00.000-07:00

In India (no research to support my comment... just my observation),

IT guys seem to enjoy and sink in on-line learning more that other functions

Others seem to like Classroom Training and find if more effective.

Everyone doesn't have a internet connection at home, so the question is where would the log from.... naturally from the office... that means as it is they are hard pressed for time and now online learning mode becomes an additional time pressure. And more time to be spent on the machine now.... it's taking its toll.

Classroom training would be away from the screen, away from the seat and the associated organizational interferences (few consider such training as "picnics" if scheduled residential and in a resort). Interaction between participants happen and often encouraged by the Facilitator... it also makes people know each other better.

I for one, surely feel Classroom Training is relevant.

(P.S. We Indian's still psychologically follow the 'Gurukul tradition' of learning...known as 'Guru...Shishya parampara')

Do you think that companies will invest in their people development training in 2009?

2009-06-05T05:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, surely but depends on levels.

Senior level training budgets are reduced but not training per se i.e. the venue and facilities aren't 5-star hotels anymore (nor residential resorts) but in the office conference room itself (has it's disadvantages but ;-) trainings are happening and no cuts).

Similar is the situation for the mid-levels... the only hit is that people have been removed and therefore the no. of days engagement has been drastically reduced.

The entry-levels and the junior level freelance trainers have been hit the most. No more bulk trainings... in many companies either being done by internal trainers or by functional heads.... outsourced trainers have been hit.

Some companies have smartly started hiring full-time trainers so that a fixed salary could be paid and not per-day rates.

This is the India perspective.

Down & Out

2009-05-12T00:10:00.000-07:00

Last week was quite frightful. Monday onwards, I caught a viral and by God!!!, it just put me down.

Fever on & off (as if someone was operating the switch here) and absolute tiredness. Just didn't want to wake up.... thankfully, not for ever!

I was to travel out of country but had to postpone the trip. Client partners were wonderful in support (thankfully, didn't have many assignments going on).

The good side...
My voice has become husky
I can sleep now at any time of the day without disturbance
I connected to the net minimum (wow!!!)
I woke up feeling "having slept".

Few more Queries in Training

2009-04-23T23:04:00.000-07:00

Q- I want experiences of trainers speakers on how they entered the training speaking industry. Is it better to work with a training company for a year to understand the industry better or is it better to launch yourself directly as a freelancer. My personal outlook (the Questioners') is that most successful trainers speakers today launched themselves directly into the industry.

First there is a difference between Trainers and Speakers. Few of our colleagues do both, but I don't think the "Trainer Speaker" terminology isn't appropriate.

Speakers who have directly launched themselves into this industry (I'm not sure whether they considered it an industry!) were experts in their field, either as Professionals OR have written books which have been successful. They were invited to speak at various Forums and they did an excellent job of the same. The audience loved them, learnt from them and understood their books better. More books got sold. Meeting organisers wanted these Speakers now at any cost and offered them fees. And thus this became an industry. This people are known as "Key Speakers" or "Motivational Speakers".

"Passionate Trainers" are different. They love standing in front of a group and creating a difference, they love being with others, for them the "high" is seeing that the learners change and implement the learning's. They keep up-to-date with knowledge, concepts and books and share this knowledge to the participants making it easier and simpler to understand so that the participant can implement the same in his workplace or personal life.

Today another category of Trainer has evolved and that is the "Job/Business Trainer". Training is either a Job or a Business proposition. This person gets into the field because when per day rates are quoted, he feels "wow" - he multiples it by the number of days in the month and says the earning is 'great' and a good business to get in without realising that a "Passionate Trainer" will not train for more than 10 days a month. The Job/Business Trainer is a person who has public speaking abilities, uses gimmicks in his training, creates a "high" but at times unable to influence the participant to change.

There could be inter-linking of all the three above.

Now you have to reflect, why are you here and why do you want to be here?

A Speaker, a Trainer or just someone who looks at this as a job or a business.

Remember for a drinker there is a difference between 'Well-brewed Coffee' or a 'Instant Coffee' similar like 'Wine' and 'Port Wine'. What do you choose to be????

My experience:
1992 onwards,
When I was first appointed a Faculty in Public Speaking, for a 10-session course of 2 hours each, I was paid Rs. 200/- for the whole course as honorarium.

For my first module on Personality Development, paid by kind "a wall-clock" of Rs.500/-; for my first Dramatics workshop of a month's duration, paid by kind "a wrist-watch" of Rs 450/-.

It's been a long journey and an enjoyable one.

Queries in Training

2009-04-20T23:29:00.000-07:00

I was asked a few questions on Training. I replied to them and thought would be interesting for my blog readers too. (This is from an India perspective)

1. what should one do to get into training sector?

Depends on why you want to be in this field and what's your personal vision.

Various ways you can get into this field:

a. You could start by conducting sessions in schools and colleges. And then move on to training the entry level staff of companies.

b. Join a Company in the Learning & Development Department (part of HR). You may have to initially get into coordination of Training and may be more of an observer. This would strengthen your content knowledge. Once you are comfortable in the modules, then you could start by handling small modules along with a co-trainer.

c. Join a Training Company. Again initially they may put you in co-ordination. They may also ask you to first start marketing (i.e. developing business). Then again you may get chances to co-facilitate and thus become a Trainer. They would also certify you on certain key programs in the long run.

If you want to directly get into freelancing and expect companies to give you assignments, I don't know 'why' they will give the same to you. Training is a cost and should give the client Return on their Investment.

are there any courses or diploma available?

ISTD runs a Diploma program in T&D. It's a Distance program, self-reading and a few sessions in between. My opinion is that it takes Training theoretically.

2. How can one contact right people to start with the T&D ?

For what?

If for getting business, then you need to learn marketing & business development skills and also need to be known for your Training skills.

If for connecting to trainers and sharing & learning, then you need to use linkedin more.

3. What is the scope , future & opportunities in this sector?

I don't see training as a business or a job but more of a passion! And when there is passion, the scope, future & opportunities are the 'zenith'.

If you want to be in this field because you believe in the power of change, then you can for yourself create as many opportunities as you want. If you are here, just because it's a "earning" field, then with every slowdown, recession, you are gonna face 'frustration'.

Story Telling is a powerful training tool

2009-04-11T00:22:00.000-07:00

Yes, undoubtedly Story Telling is a powerful training tool. Not only in training but stories can be used powerfully in presentations, group motivation and discussions. My personal belief is that bulleted conversations has it's strengths but if one can use a appropriate story, the understanding is far better and deeper.

I believe, "Leaders who use stories with their teams communicate much powerfully".

As a Trainer, when using stories, I find the participant reflection richer and the retention longer ... and not necessarily only factual stories. Even fables, stories from the panchatantra etc. have the desired effect.

But how many Trainer's use Stories?

At times we get so involved with concepts and processes that the motivational aspect of why should one learn the skill or the behaviour is not at all tackled

An additional thought:

In India, (where I majorly deliver my training interventions), our culture supports Stories.

Most of us live in a joint family system (nowadays changing!). The role of the grandparent was to entertain kids with stories. The stories used were from our epics... the Mahabharata or the Ramayana etc. Other stories of Buddha, Panchatantra were narrated. The fight was between the Rakshashas (evil) and with the Gods. Thus was imbibed in a child "family values". Values which became part of one's conscience.

We didn't require any training on Principles and Values for inside we knew what it meant.

Presently I see that Grandparents are themselves busy in the corporate world and dont retire... they are sooo busy. Further due to the break-up of the joint family system, grandchildren are not under the 'guidance' of the grandparents... so no stories.

Is there a co-relation between this and the fact that we are seeing a lot of compromise on one's "value" system and thus more and more scams?

At Pench Wildlife Santuary

2009-03-16T05:30:00.000-07:00

Last week, I was at Pench as part of a Clients off-site. Pench is in the border of MP & Maharashtra (near Nagpur), a Wildlife Sanctuary spans about 7oo odd sq. kms. Saw lots of spotted dears, sambars and various other wildlife during our Safari. Birds were in plenty but the forest wasn't as green as I would have liked it to be (it was hot... about 40 degrees C).

We ran here and there (in our jeeps!) for the sighting of the elusive Tiger, few of us managed to see a grown-male cub's bum.

The sessions went off fine too but as the property (where we were staying) didn't have AC Conference Room, the participants were pretty hot & fried.

Regards
Ajit

The heat of March

2009-03-01T22:14:00.000-08:00

March....

Possibly a month, where companies are concentrating on increasing their figures before the close of the financial year (in India).

Planned Training would be at the minimum in March. Therefore in March, personally, I have a lot of time to reflect, meet clients, develop new business etc.

Till last year, March was the time the smaller companies / unplanned HR / NGO's would rush to complete their (budgeted for) training. At times it was merely to complete an ISO requirement. But this year, due to market conditions these companies have no interest nor inclination.

The heat of March!!!!

Why am I a Trainer?

2009-02-26T06:49:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I wonder,

Why am I a Trainer?
... preparation for each and every program,
... meeting clients, understanding needs, designing a curriculum,
... negotiating with clients on rates,
... participant workbooks,
... delivering effectively,
... analysing feedback,
... meeting clients again,
... and much more.

Won't it be better to take up a job? or do something else...

Then I realise,
I always wanted to be here,
... to make a difference in self through others

Regards
Ajit

Appreciation as a Soft Skill

2009-02-15T10:11:00.000-08:00

Genuine appreciation is what one looks out for and one starts valuing the appreciation and the appreciator.

Let's explore our Indian culture....

The Appreciator (the one giving the appreciation)
How many of us genuinely know how to appreciate? The appreciator is clumsy giving it and if the receiver is of the opposite gender, the appreciator is worried about what the receiver would think! Nowadays appreciating someone from the same gender isn't easy too. Even a Leader doesn't know how to give it. When appreciation is given in a 'open' environment, onlookers make faces that range from "Why" to "Flirt!!!". Sometimes even the receiver tries to find out the 'underlying intention' behind the appreciation.

The Receiver (the one being appreciated)
Secondly how many of us know how to "accept" appreciation? When appreciated, we are 'embarrassed' , we don't know how to react or respond, so we start a 'defensive' process. I recollect an incident; I appreciated (genuinely :-)) a participant as she looked lovely in a Sari that she had worn for her final presentation in a Presentation Skills Program. She felt awkward, looked down, mumbled that it's was her mother's sari (Indian traditional dress), turned around and sat down. When it was time for her to 'present' she started stammering the moment she looked at me. Needles to say, I felt guilty.

Teaching feedback and appreciation is also difficult! You brief participants that first they should give positive feedback and then put across the 'areas of improvement' . But if this process isn't facilitated, most of the participants first start the negatives. Giving positive feedback (includes appreciation) is soo difficult to most of us Indians.

Could it be because our parents don't give it?
Could it be because our teachers don't teach us this?
Could it be because most of our friends don't use it?
Could it be because our Seniors & Colleagues don't know how to give it?
Even Spouses rarely use it!!!

Therefore we would have to consciously use appreciation but should be done rightly and at the right time. Once we get used to this skill, then it is easier to use it, comes naturally and genuinely and becomes a habit.

And initially if it doesn't sound genuine, I think that's fine? At least one is learning the art of giving appreciations!

Warm regards

Ajit

Attended a Wine Appreciation workshop REVIEW

2009-02-14T02:19:00.000-08:00

My 'high's' at the Wine Appreciation Workshop: 7th Feb, 2009
organised by Trainers Forum at Mumbai

Being a teetotaler (Goa port wine being an exception), I had a reason to participate in the Wine Drinking (oops!) Appreciation workshop.

Ages back, whilst working at British Council, I was hosting a "reception" (gathering) wherein Press, Key Invitees (CEO's / MD's of Companies) and Consul Officers were invited to meet the touring group (performers, artistes, music groups).

My Senior was on leave so my Director and myself were the host. After the formal introductions, we had a formal get-together where 'pure' (imported under Diplomatic baggage) wines and liquor flowed.

As a host, I had a glass of white wine and a toast was raised by my Director. One sip of White Wine and it was awful! I quickly went to the bartender and asked for white rum with lemonade (so that I could kill the taste of white wine). One sip and I was on Cloud 9 (the combo seems to have created that effect). I was given lime juice by the bartender to bring me back. I really don't remember what I spoke after this 'high' and with whom and how (good lord! the press didn't interview me)

After this incident, I always wanted to know what people like in wines and why there is soo much snob value attached to wines. In between, I did try red wine but that was awful too. Goa port was what I thought was good enough & uncomplicated for me.

So last Saturday, I set out to learn the art of wine appreciation. And Trainers Forum and Arun made it possible.

And boy, did I learn.
Jacob knew his grapes and his vines (pun unintentional), created 'foreplay' with the information and then ...

the wines,
White, Red, Rose, Apple, Sparkling

When told "how" to, the 'nosing' helped me enjoy the fragrance and the drinking and rolling it in the mouth made me feel it too.

Reds I still haven't liked but white was enjoyable and especially the apple was enchanting (I don't know the appropriate word in french).

The sad part was lot of wine got wasted, as we didn't drink all of it (or couldn't, I was seeing 2 Aruns by this time) and I didn't know whether I could ask for the wine to be "parceled". If we were served wines from the start of the workshop, I'm sure none would have been wasted but then I wonder whether we would have listened to Jacob at all.

Another sad part was, I couldn't interact with most of the participants as the group was big and no "Icebreaker" was part of this program.

I got a Certificate, ... now was it wine appreciator or wine drinker?, I don't know (I was on a pleasant high by this time).

Thank you Arun, Indage & Hyatt for this program. Friends, if you weren't present, you really missed it!!!

Warm regards

Ajit

Being in touch

2009-02-14T02:15:00.000-08:00

Planning to keep on updating my blog on a regular basis

2008-05-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends
I have just started blogging and am getting used to this.

I am a Trainer in Soft Skills and Behavioural Programs and located in India. I deliver trainings on modules such as Presentation Skills, Public Speaking, Communication Skills etc.

My journey in Training has been all of 16 years and it's been an enriching experience. I am located in Mumbai (Bombay) India.

More thoughts later.

Regards
Ajit

WizTalks

Unsubstantiated claims by Trainers: Are we becoming more like products today? Or braggers?

Preps ON!!!!

Trainers Forum is happy to announce the 2-day workshop on Using Drama and Theater in Training on 15th and 16th October, 2011, at Mumbai.

Dramatics and Theatre techniques are powerful mediums to make individuals reflect on their own behaviours in the organisation.

The workshop is divided into two parts:

1st part – The Actor in you

2nd part – The Trainer as an Actor

On Day 1, the participant refreshes on the basic nuances of Acting and understands the power of “Improv” as a tool of quick responses.

On Day 2 the participant explores usage of theatre in training using methodologies like Role Plays, Role Modeling, Forum Theatre, Scenario building for Skills Practice etc.,

Venue: Hotel Fortune Park, Eastern Express Highway, Jupiter Hospital Complex, Thane.

"Theatre in Training" Pictures

Theatre in Training by Ajit Kamath on Sun, 29 May

Why are we "Trainers" here?

The Training grass on the other side

Why Trainers Aren't Synergestic??????

Isn't Speaking a profession too???

Why are Trainers running behind International Training Certifications

Is mentioning as Ex employee or associate of an organisation, violates the copyright or patent rights ?

"Innovative Training Methodologies" Ajit was the Panel Speaker at the ISTD Regional Conference

Leadership Camps for Teens and Youngsters- Lonvala - Dec 2009

Most trainers are merely PPT readers

Most trainers are merely PPT readers - a comment I read on linkedin to which I have put forth my observations below:

Subscribe to my blog to be updated

Question: Factors to be kept in mind while designing a training program and what are the different delivery styles one can adopt while training?

Question by Nisha Dhanuka

on http://www.linkedin.com/groupAnswers?viewQuestionAndAnswers=&gid=48422&discussionID=7595367&sik=&trk=mywl_artile&goback=.mwg_48422_1

My Answer:

An Interesting Answer to my Question: Why can't CEO's be involved in Training???

How much of ‘entertaining‘ is advisable in Training?

(The above were questions asked in linkedin)

My thoughts:

Why can't CEO's be involved in Training???

Amazing Quote

Rain rain come again

It's really really funny.

Coaching in Presentation Skills / Public Speaking

"Silence" - a fear

Is classroom training still relevant?

Do you think that companies will invest in their people development training in 2009?

Down & Out

Few more Queries in Training

Queries in Training

Story Telling is a powerful training tool

At Pench Wildlife Santuary

The heat of March

Why am I a Trainer?

Appreciation as a Soft Skill

Attended a Wine Appreciation workshop REVIEW

Being in touch

1^st part – The Actor in you

2^nd part – The Trainer as an Actor